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2013

Table of CONTENTS

Letter From the Editor | Page 3

Road Trippin’ to MeramecIncoming: What to Expect | Page 7How I Met My Program | Pages 8-96 Quick Tips to Understanding Financial Aid | Page 11Building Books to Success | Page 13Dear New Student | Page 14

Staycation2013-2014 Play calendar | Page 16Clubs Offer Opportunities | Page 17Archer Roundup | Page 20-21Places to Eat | Page 22-23Online vs. Face-to-Face | Page 24Meramec Chillaxin’ | Page 26

Packing Up CampPicture This: Missouri Schools at a Glance | Pages 28-29Schooling Around Town | Pages 32-33Step-By-Step: Transferring | Page 34Internships: Getting Your Feet Wet | Page 35Knock-Out Resumes | Page 37

S’More MemoriesStudent Attacked in Campus Bathroom | Page 40Wasson Resigns | Pages 40-41Students Left in the Dark | Page 43Under the Lights | Pages 44-45The Disappearing Act | Page 46We Were Treated Like Children | Page 47Bridging the Cultural Gap | Page 49

Kavahn MansouriLilly Huxhold Alex Kendall

Gretchen Daniels

Spencer GleasonCory Montero

Dorian RobertsCory Muehlebach

Cassie KibensJake Hunn

David KloeckenerJustin VilmerTaylor Menke

Shannon Philpott

Tegan MazurekJames Claiborne

Michelle Barry

Editor in Chief EmeritusManaging Editor Emeritus Photo Editor EmeritusCopy Editor Emeritus Editor in ChiefManaging EditorNews EditorOpinions EditorProduction ManagerGraphics EditorPhoto EditorCopy Editor Copy EditorFaculty Adviser

Staff Photographer Staff WriterStaff Writer

Editorial views expressed or content contained in this publication are not necessarily the views of St. Louis Community College, the Board of Trustees or the administration.

The Montage is a student publication produced seven times per semester at St. Louis Community College - Meramec, 11333 Big Bend Blvd., Kirkwood, Mo., 63122. (314) 984-7655. One copy of The Montage is free of charge. Up to 10 additional copies available, $1 each, at the office of The Montage, SC 220. Bulk purchases may be arranged with circulation manager.

To place an advertisement, contact the advertising manager for rates, sample issues, etc., (314)984-7955.

MTHE MONTAGE

Proud member of

FRONT COVER PHOTO BY ALEX KENDALLBACK COVER PHOTO BY DAVID KLOECKENER

Letter from the editorSince The Montage first began

producing the Back-To-School Guide in 2010, it has helped educate numerous students on the ins-and-outs of the Meramec campus. This 2013-14 Back-To-School Guide promises to do the same.

Whether you are a wide-eyed 18-year-old student or a non-traditional student, this book will help guide you throughout your time here at Meramec. This will cover what you need to know before you arrive at Meramec, while you

are here and when you leave. Our last section will provide newsworthy nuggets of the past academic year. For the students moving on, this book will be a keepsake item of your time spent as part of the STLCC and Meramec family.

Meramec is the community’s school and Meramec students will help the community grow. The Montage’s Back-To-School Guide is a tool that will help you on your way.

The Montage is a 100 percent student run staff. The publications

are produced by students, for students. The collection of information and stories inside this Back-To-School Guide is material that students believed was necessary to share to help everyone be successful at Meramec.

Throughout the school year, The Montage will provide unbiased truths through accurate journalism about Meramec and STLCC. The care and dedication that went into producing the 2013-14 Back-To-School Guide will be the same type

of care and dedication that we will bring to our readership throughout the year.

As the student newspaper of Meramec, The Montage vows to bring you breaking news about your school and the effect of decisions by STLCC on the student body. We will have the latest STLCC sports coverage from Meramec and the sister campuses. We will share engaging stories of people just like you and me. We will allow you – the reader – a voice.

SPENCER GLEASON EDITOR IN CHIEF

ROAD TRIPPIN’ TO MERAMEC 3

2013-2014 Editorial Staff

ROAD TRIPPIN’ TO MERAMEC4

JOIN THE TEAMThe Meramec Montage wants YOU to:

WRITEDESIGN

TAKE PHOTOS

Some experience? No experience? All aspiring writers welcome! Just ask a friendly staffer at the next meeting for some tips and tricks on writing for The Montage. Join our weekly Tuesday staff meetings at 5 p.m. in the Student Center, Room 220A.

The Montage could not even be handed out if we did not have such a great and talented design team. If you have an eye for design, consider hanging out with us on Tuesday production nights and learn the tools of the InDesign trade.

All shutter-bugs are welcome to join our award-winning photography staff. Work with our photo editor to add visuals to the paper and intice the reader.

CONTACT US314-984-7655

[email protected]

Sharpen your pencils, organize your notebooks and put on your thinking cap. You are headed to Meramec. New Students, listen up, we have got tips and tricks to make your college experience less stressful and prepare you for whereever your heart takes you next. You will find a list of programs Meramec has to offer and a little explination of each. Use it as a guide, use it as a pillow, use it to plan your future. We like option 3. Need a little money

help? We have you covered. No, we can not pay for your tuition, but we compiled a list of ways to understand how to apply for financial aid. You are welcome. Just remember us little people one day. Need a place to study? Library is the answer of course. The library has a lot more to offer too. Read up. Just to bring it back to Hight School a bit, we are reminicing a bit about how High School is over and it is time for college.


ROAD TRIPPIN’ TO MERAMEC

ILLUSTRATION BY: CORY MONTERO

A T M E R A M E C

The Music Department at Meramec offers courses and ensembles for all students. You may take classes for general education credit or pursue the Associate of Arts in Music

degree to prepare for transfer into a Bachelor of Music or Music Education program.

** SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE **

COURSES MUS 101,102,201,202 Music Theory I,II,III,IV MUS 103 Basic Music MUS 113 The History of Jazz MUS 114 The Enjoyment of Music MUS 115,116 Class Voice I,II MUS 121,122,221,222 Class Piano I,II,III,IV MUS 128 Survey of Rock Music MUS 130 Beginning Guitar MUS 138,139,216 Jazz Improvisation I,II,III MUS 141,142,241,242 Applied Music (Lessons) I,II,III,IV MUS 143 Introduction to Desktop Publishing MUS 211,212 Music History I,II

Interested in performing in an ensemble? All Meramec students may participate. No audition is required!

ENSEMBLES Music 132 – Orchestra Music 133 – Jazz Lab Band Music 134 – Symphonic Band Music 135 – Concert Choir, Chamber Singers

and Voices of Magic jazz choir

All ensembles hold a seat/part assignment hearing during the first rehearsal. Members of the Concert Choir may audition for the Chamber Singers and/or the Voices of Magic jazz choir.

For more information, contact the Meramec Music Department

Gary Gackstatter, Director of Instrumental Music, [email protected], (314) 984-7636 Dr. Jerry Myers, Director of Choral Activities & Music Theory, [email protected], (314) 984-7638

Incoming: What to Expect CORY MUEHLEBACH OPINIONS EDITOR

Coming into a new place without knowledge of it can be a scary thing, and college is no different. But do not fret there are many people and programs at STLCC-Meramec to help. From math tutors to computer labs to the library, there is an endless plethora of utensils at a student’s disposal. At Meramec, students will learn, make new friends and experience great new educational opportunities.

“I went to Mehlville high school and was told, by other students, that Meramec was just going to be a second high school to me. This was false, though. I found that I was pushed to do my best by teachers who have also taught in four-year universities. Not to mention, we use the same books and curriculum as the four-year universities do,” said Meramec student Erin Kiely.

Kiely completed her first year at Meramec and “couldn’t be happier with it,” she said. Kiely has received a great college experience and Meramec is much cheaper compared to a four-year college program and just as effective. Students need to take general education courses to attain an associate’s degree at Meramec. After those credits students can take credits pertaining to their major and prepare for a university.

Students can get help from various programs situated around campus. If a student is having trouble deciding what classes to take, he or she can head over to Clark Hall where a faculty of advisors are available to help. They will guide students through the credits they need, their financial aid, transcripts and where other areas of the school are located.

What are some things students should keep in mind about classes at Meramec? Classes will be more difficult, however the faculty try to work one-on-one with students to ensure

success. The responsibility is still on the student.

“As a college faculty member, I don’t hound students to turn in assignments. I place the task of individual time management and completing course assignments to students. I offer advice, but ultimately our students are adults,” Professor of Communication Chris Eayrs said.

Students must work on his or her own time to succeed at college. Though students must work harder, there are many labs, tutors and faculty to help them if needed.

Hate math? No worries, Meramec has a lab for that. Hate writing? No worries, the Writing Center exists. On campus during many hours of the day, tutors are willing to sit down with students one-on-one and make sure they get adequate assistance. Meramec has its tutors in several convenient locations across the campus, such as the Communications North building and the Science West building. The blueprints to success are in the student’s hand; he or she just have to use the resources provided.

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ROAD TRIPPIN’ TO MERAMEC 7ILLUSTRATION BY: CORY MONTERO

how i

programmet my>>Meet the programs

Meramec has to offer. You never know, one could be your future.

• Accounting (AAS, CP) >> Analyze, interpret, compare. With a foundation in accounting and hands on experience with accounting software, you will be ready to take on the world of numbers.

• Addictions Study (CS) >> Want to get ready for a career in the field of addiction? With a CS in Addictions Study you will learn various treatment and addiction modalities.

• Architectural Technology (AAS) >> Students with a burn to sketch and draft should look into this degree. Students will learn to draft, present, design and detail. Get ready to embrace the architectural field.

• Business Administration (AAS, CP) >> AAS: Students that want into the field of BA should take a look into this program. CP: Upgrade your skills in Business Administration with this program.

• Computer Accounting Technology (CS) >> Dive right into updating your technology skills or landing that job soon.

• Criminal Justice Law Enforcement (AAS, CP) >> AAS: Prepare for an entry-level job in law enforcement. CP: Get ready for a future job in law enforcement with this program. Gain a solid background in law enforcement.

• Digital Media Animation (CS) >> Learn how to create three-dimensional animations and designs with this program. Digital Photography (CS) >> Learn the new tools of the photography trade by working with photo software and programs. Interactive Design (CS) >> Go from drab to fab with your web page development knowledge. Get ready to enter the field or brush up your career. Page Layout / Graphic Design (CS) >> Let your designs shine by learning how to creatively design a page layout with design software and programs. Video Art (CS) >> Become the next Steven Spielberg, or at least understand how a video camera works and how to edit video. Work with programs to help emphasize your videos. • Early Care and Education >> AAS: This two-year program focuses on child development, early education and family studies. CP: The first step toward the AAS degree. Developmental Disabilities Option (AAS) — This program prepares you to work with developmentally disabled children. • Graphic Communications (AAS) >> Gain the fundamentals of graphic design and enter the design world as a graphic designer, cartoonist, produciton artist and so much more. • Horticulture (AAS, CP, CS) Landscape Design (AAS) >> In this hands-on program students work with plants while working in a greenhouse or nursery. Landscapes and Gardening (CS) >> This program will provide you the tools to work in an entry- level position at parks, nurseries, golf courses and more.


ILLUSTRATION BY CASSIE KIBENS

• Human Services (AAS) >> With a degree in Human Services, students will have a basic understanding of social science and a look into how to pursue this as a career. Students will be qualified to be house parents, case workers, correction officers and more. • Information Reporting After students take the fundamental courses, students can choose from the following: Captioning (AAS, CP) >> AAS: Students can caption for broadcast and live events. CP: Students become Certified Broadcast Captioning certified. CART (AAS, CP) >> CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) CP: Students are prepared to become a Certified CART Provider. Judicial (AAS, CP) >> Students will learn to use stenotype machines for transcription in official documents. With a CP the student will prepare to become a Certified Court Reporter. • Information Systems Office Information Coordinator (AAS) >> Students will learn to be productive office officials through gaining knowledge in office technology. Software Developer (AAS) >> Become prepared for an entry-level software developer or take a crack at advanced software design with this program. • IT Help Desk / End User Support (CS) >> With a mixture of hands-on, classroom, immersion and distance learning instruction, students will be prepared to hold positions such as help desk and desktop support technician. • Interior Design (AAS) >> Have an eye for design? This program prepares students to become Interior Designers for businesses such as: retail stores, offices, health care and more. • Kitchen and Bath Design (CP) >> Students will become members of the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Students who have had past drawing, drafting, design, etc. will find it helpful. • Legal Studies for the Paralegal (AAS, CP) >> AAS: Students develop interviewing and counseling skills while in this program. Students are prepared for paralegal positions. CP: Students interested should have an interest in law.

• Mass Communications (AAS) >> Students in this program will learn the fundamentals of journalism, advertising and broadcasting. Graduates will be prepared for entry-level positions in this field.

• Microcomputer Applications (CS) >> This program is for students interested in learning spread sheets, word processing and data bases. Graduates are prepared for using these programs in offices today.

• Nursing (AAS) >> Students will be prepared to become registered nurses when they finish this program. Students who want to enter this program should have an interest in health sciences and working with people. • Occupational Therapy Assistant (AAS) >> Students who go through this program will be prepared to work as an Occupational Therapy Assistant under the supervision of registered occupational therapists. • Oracal Developer (CP) >> Graduates of this program learned how to create and manage an Oracle Database. Students will learn how to develop, design, program and administer an Oracle Database.

• Paramedic Technology (AAS) >> Students in this program will learn how to use rescue vehicles, ambulances and emergency room equipment. Students need to be able to receive and give oral directions. • Physical Therapist Assistant (AAS) >> This program is for students who are comfortable with working with many different types of people and age groups. This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. • Sustainable Enviromental Design (CS) >> Students who want to expand their knowledge and skills required to work in the growing field of sustainable Enviromental Design should be in this program. This program also helps students prepare for the Leadership in Energy and Enviromental Design Green Associate exam. • Web Development (CS) >> By taking this program students will have hands-on experience with Web Development. Students will benefit from theoretical and technical knowledge gained in the program.

KEY:AA: Associate in Arts DegreeAAS: Associate in Applied Science Degree AS: Associate in ScienceCP: Certificate of Proficiency CS: Certificate of Specialization


Financial aid is a resource for students who do not want to pay for school out of pocket. If a student wishes to receive Federal Pell Grants, scholarships or any other types of aid, it is important they visit the Financial Aid Office to get information about the steps they need to take. While financial aid is not absolutely necessary, knowing the process and the steps needed is an experience all students should have if they plan to continue school after Meramec. Even if students do not think that they will be eligible for federal or state aid, the Financial Aid Office is also the place where they can get registration papers for scholarships and turning in all said papers. While this can seem overwhelming for students fresh out of high school, the process can be very straightforward and easy to navigate.

1Completing the FAFSAFAFSA stands for Free Application for

Federal Student Aid, and can be accessed and completed at http://fafsa.gov. If a student was born on or after Jan. 1, 1990 they are considered a dependent and will need to include his or her parent’s tax information and have their signatures when applying. Be sure to include the STLCC Federal School Code: 002469.

Tip: “Just because you completed a FAFSA for another school doesn’t mean [Meramec] received it. You have to submit a FAFSA for all the schools you apply for,” said Financial Advisor Sarah Steiner, “remember to enter 002469 if applying to STLCC.”

2Admissions OfficeOnce the FAFSA is completed, a student must

complete registration. By visiting the Admissions Office at the campus they can register as a student and declare a Major. A student must have Regular Admissions Status, which can be achieved by submitting all college transcripts (or high school transcripts if they have fewer than 15 college credit hours) achieved and completing a Transcript Evaluation Form. Once registered, a student can check his or her status on his or her Banner Self-Service account.

Pitfall: Admissions should be done as soon as possible, as it must be completed in order for financial aid to be awarded.

3Requirements for Financial AidBanner is the online service for registering for

classes and checking the requirements for any financial aid available to a student. He or she can access this by logging into Banner Self-Service, clicking on the Student Services & Financial Aid link, and following the links: Financial Aid – Eligibility - Select Aid Year - Submit. If there is not an option to submit, the financial aid paperwork has either not been submitted or processed yet.

Tip: If a student has forgotten his or her login information they can call the Admissions Office to reset.

4Financial Aid OfficeWhen visiting the Financial Aid Office all

required documentation must be submitted at the same time, and for returning students an Academic Audit form must also be completed. Check Banner Self-Service for award amounts and disbursement dates.

5All New StudentsAll students going to college for the first time

must sign up for the mandatory New Student Registration Workshop. During the workshop students will meet with an academic advisor, review their test scores, discuss appropriate coursework for their first semester of college, learn how to build a class schedule, and learn how to register for classes on Banner Self-Service.

6Student CenterOnce the new student has completed all the

previous steps, they can head to the Student Center and get their STLCC OneCard. In order to get his or her picture taken, a student must be enrolled in classes. The OneCard will arrive in the mail in 7-10 business days. Students should activate the card immediately and choose their refund preferences.

6 quick tips to understanding

financial aidDORIAN ROBERTS NEWS EDITOR


Forest Park Meramec WildwoodFlorissant Valley

St. Louis Community College expands minds and changes lives every day. We create accessible, dynamic learning environments focused on the needs of our diverse communities.

WildwoodStudent Enrollment andDisability Support Services2645 Generations DriveWildwood, MO 63040-1168E-mail: [email protected]: 636-422-2000Fax: 636-422-2050Relay Missouri: 711

Florissant ValleyAccess Office3400 Pershall RoadSt. Louis, MO 63135-1499E-mail: [email protected]: 314-513-4551Fax: 314-513-4876Relay Missouri: 711

Forest ParkAccess Office5600 Oakland Ave.St. Louis, MO 63110-1393E-mail: [email protected]: 314-644-9039Fax: 314-951-9439Relay Missouri: 711

MeramecAccess Office11333 Big Bend RoadKirkwood, MO 63122-5799E-mail: [email protected]: 314-984-7673Fax: 314-984-7123Relay Missouri: 711

Students with disAbilitieshave Access at STLCC.

www.stlcc.edu

St. Louis Community College makes every reasonable effort to accommodate individuals with disabilities. If you have accommodation needs, please contact the Access office at the campus where you are registered. While accommodations may be requested at any time, some accommodations may require many weeks to arrange.

Building Books to Success

The STLCC-Meramec library provides students with academic resources and services. Equipped with two levels including study rooms, PCs and an access lab for students with disabilities, students will find many hidden tools that can enhance their academic careers.

As well as an extensive fiction and nonfiction collection the Meramec library offers mainstream, reference and periodical selections. Students can even find many of their textbooks in the library.

“A big thing that we have are reserve books up front. I think a lot of students don’t know that when you are enrolled in classes, it’s very common that your textbook is on reserve in the library,” said Patrick Mallory, manager of Meramec’s library.

The learning lab takes learning to a new level with DVDs, CDs, anatomical models and audiovisual materials. Students can also access computers and iPads while lounging on one of the many couches on the first or second floor.

According to Mallory, the library

offers 20 laptops for check out, 60 PCs throughout the building for in-house use and a few iPads. Students must present a valid student ID to access materials and equipment in the library.

“We have Wi-Fi throughout

the building, we have printing and photocopying here in the building if you need that, and a lot of places to sit down and study,” Mallory said.

A few of the study rooms are also equipped with flat screen televisions to hook up a laptop or iPad, ideal for student group work.

Students with disabilities also have opportunities to access library materials.

“The Access Lab has accessible computers that have special software on them for students with various

disabilities,” Scott Armstead of Library Services said. “We have a whole host of software that is designed to meet the needs of specific disabilities.”

JAWS, a text to speech program, allows anyone who is visually

impaired to hear the words that are displayed on the screen. Another program that is accessible for students with specific reading or learning disabilities is Read and Write Gold. This program helps students organize their thoughts and words. It offers a built in dictionary for anyone having difficulty with vocabulary.

“Reading the words is equally as hard as knowing the definition of the word so the built-in dictionaries are very adapted, helping students overcome or understand the words

better,” Armstead said.Another service the library offers

is a High Speed Scanner, which can be used for those who have trouble viewing small text. Armstead also explains how he uses Alternate Text Conversion along with the High Speed Scanner. He said that he can take the scanned text from a textbook and make it accessible for the person with the disability.

“Someone who has difficulty reading in general can actually hear their textbook; an added benefit is that a scanned version of the book weighs as much as a flash aid,” Armstead said.

It takes 20 to 25 hours for Armstead to convert one textbook.

Closed caption television that can magnify a book onto a monitor is another service available for visually impaired students.

If there is an academic resource students need, it is likely the library will find a way to provide it, Mallory said. “All you need is your ID card to access these materials.”

James Claiborne contributed to this piece.

CORY MONTERO MANAGING EDITOR

PHOTO BY: DAVID KLOECKENER

“Reading the words is equally as hard as knowing the definition of the word so, the built in dictionaries are very adapted, helping students overcome or understand the words better.”

Scott Armstead, Library Services



Welcome to the next few years of your academic life. For the past three years of my life I have been a Meramec student and I can say that it has been a ride to remember from first to last. I am not going to tell you that Meramec is a dream two-year college where all your hopes and dreams can come true, but I can give you a bit of advice about how to make it out of this place with a smile on your face and an acceptance letter or diploma in your hand.

The first thing you should keep in mind when you’re getting settled in is that Meramec isn’t the worst destination in the world. A lot of people you talk to might be pretty set in stone that Meramec is terrible but they either a.) haven’t really tried to enjoy the campus or b.) can’t even tell you why they dislike it. That isn’t to say this campus is the most epic two-year school you can attend. In the past three years I’ve watched a campus booming with student life shrink immensely into a shell of its former self. Budget cuts and a corporate structure at the Cosand Center have made it difficult for students to enjoy their experience at Meramec. Meramec’s athletic teams have been consolidated, its faculty and staff mistreated and its students left to suffer the consequences of every blunder they make.

But again, Meramec really isn’t as bad as a lot of people let on. People are nice here, and for the most part won’t try to strangle you in a bathroom. Faculty and staff are all pulling for you to succeed and will take interest in you if you let them. Find the right professor or instructor and they will help you get through the next few years at Meramec. Here are some rules to live by: go to class, turn in your work, give a damn about your classes and try your

best to stay on your instructors good side. Lastly, don’t be afraid of your instructors; they’ve seen a lot and are willing to help. It’s what they are here for.

Along the way you’ll meet fellow students with a major connection to this campus for one reason or another. For myself it was what you’re reading right now, The Montage. The Montage gave me a family, a reason to come to school everyday and a future in journalism. For other students there are clubs like the Sky Club, Business Club, Global Justice Club and literally dozens more. If you have an interest, chances are Meramec has a club you can take advantage of. There are so many students involved in what’s going on at this campus and it is one of the major ways students can be successful at Meramec. Getting involved also gives students a chance to create friendships with fellow students.

Stay informed. If you want to really be involved in what’s going on at Meramec open your eyes and ears. Students need to get involved in what is going on around campus if they expect to have any say in it. For the past three years I’ve seen students become complacent with how they are treated by administration and the college as whole. So stand up for yourself and your fellow students.

All of these things are important. Don’t be a student who just comes and goes; and if you are don’t complain about not liking Meramec. It can be a pretty cool place to go and a pretty terrible place to be at sometimes. At the end of the day it’s about appreciating where you’re at, good situation or bad. Meramec can be a home for students who need one. So stop and smell the roses here and try to enjoy your time on campus.

KAVAHN MANSOURI EDITOR IN CHIEF EMERITUS

The “Staycation” section covers everything students need to know when settling in at STLCC-Meramec. It includes the essential things new and returning students need to keep in mind while taking advantage of everything Meramec has to offer.

Sports, places to eat and study, play dates and several other topics are covered in this section giving

students an opportunity to not only know their campus, but to also know the community of Kirkwood which surrounds the school.

Meramec offers a wide variety of plays, clubs, campus events and activities to participate in. “Staycation” aims to give students an idea of what the school has to offer in those areas.

STAYCATION 15

Staycation


CHOOSE SERVICE LEARNING & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Contact Donna Halsband • 314-984-7893 • [email protected] Corson • 314-984-7234 • [email protected]

See our website for more information: www.stlcc.edu/ServiceLearning

make a difference in your own life by helping others through a Class service learning project or by participating in one of our

many community engagement projects.

Arsenic and Old Lace by Joseph KesselringKeith Oliver, DirectorDarren Thompson, Designer Production Dates: Oct. 2 - 5 at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6th at 2:00 p.m.

Audition Dates: Wednesday, Aug. 21 and Thursday, Aug. 22 at 7:00 p.m. Meramec TheatreAudition will consist of cold readings from the script.

The Two Sisters by Dennis M. CorcoranMichelle Rebollo, DirectorDarren Thompson, Designer

Production Dates: Nov. 20 – 23 at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 24 at 2:00 p.m.

Audition Dates: Tuesday, Sep. 24 and Wednesday, Sep. 25 at 7:00 p.m.in Student Center, Room 200/201 – Audition will consist of cold readings from the script, a dance audition and a short song performed a cappella. Please arrive dressed to move

Tales of the Lost Formicans by Constance CongdonKeith Oliver, DirectorRick Willmore, Designer

Production Dates: Feb.11 – 15, 2014 at 7:30 p.m.Feb.16, 2014 at 2:00 p.m.*disclaimer mature content."Seating will be on stage, and limited"

Audition Dates: Tuesday, Dec.10th and Wednesday, Dec. 11th at 7:00 p.m. Meramec TheatreAudition will consist of cold readings from the script.

Bye, Bye Birdie By Michael Stewart (book), Charles Strouse (music), Lee Adams (lyrics) Michelle Rebollo, DirectorRick Willmore, Designer

Production Dates: April 16 - 19, 2014 at 7:30 p.m.April 20, 2014 at 2:00 p.m.

Audition Dates: Tuesday, Feb.18 and Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 7:00 p.m. Meramec Theatre – Prepare a 1-2 minute comic monologue and a one minute song with sheet music in the correct key.Please arrive dressed for a dance audition.

2013-2014 Play Calendar

STAYCATION16

Youtube- http://Youtube.com/stlccLinkedin- http://linkedin.com/company/19996Twitter- @STLCC @STLCC_Archers @stlcclibraries

Pinterest- http://pinterest.com/STLCC/Facebook- http://facebook.com/stlcchttp://facebook.com/stlcc.librariesSTLCC Student Blog- http://blogs.stlcc.edu/

Meramec:

Facebook- http://facebook.com/stlcc.mc http://facebook.com/stlccmeramecadvisingTwitter- @STLCCadvisingMC

Workforce and Community DevelopmentTwitter- @stlccwcd @stlworkforcePodcast Feed- http://feeds.stlcc.edu/stlcc-cbil-prodev

STLCC Social Media

Clubs offer opportunities

STLCC-Meramec offers students a range of club opportunities on campus. Clubs give students with a variety of degree programs and interests an outlet to share and learn from one another according to Campus Life Manager Steve Brady.

“[Being in a club] gives them the opportunity to be involved in organizations that have the same interests that they do. The interest can be along a particular academic curriculum like nursing or occupational therapy or business. Or it can be something that is special to them like something as goofy as Humans Vs. Zombies. But just because something is an academic club doesn’t mean that they don’t have fun,” Brady said,

Along with the opportunity to partake in activities

and discussions within the clubs, students also have the opportunity to meet fellow students who share the same interests and give each individual an outlet in their field.

“More importantly they can feel that connection [to other students]. They can talk to students that are in that curriculum,” Brady said. “We try and make it as easy as possible for students to get plugged in.”

According to Brady, just taking classes and maintaining the discipline necessary for school is tougher when students are not connected to the campus.

“School is hard enough. For somebody to do that without any kind of connection, one way or the other, to the campus makes it more difficult. It can be much easier if you have a group of students beyond the classroom that you can relate to,” Brady

said.Clubs also give students

the chance to continue their learning outside the classroom, and present opportunities to branch out in the community, according to Arielle Byington, president of Sky Club and former vice president of Service of Phi Theta Kappa.

“There are a lot of benefits [to joining a club]. It enhances your personal experience with the college and you meet other people with similar interest. So that is a big plus,” Byington said. “You can continue to learn in an area of interest that you have and network with professionals in that area as well.”

Clubs such as the Sky Club, can create events, bring guest speakers to the campus and use the skills they have learned to develop themselves professionally.

“I feel like I have learned a lot and acquired such a wide range of skills that you don’t really realize until you are actually doing it. You have to establish goals for your club; you have to act as a leader for a club. I have learned a lot as a leader and also as a student,” Byington said.

Students have the option to join a club on campus that fits their academic or social need and have the option of starting a club if one does not presently exist. To start a club stop by the Campus Life office in the Student Center.

“We try and make it easy [for students to join a club]. We have our club days, which would be the second week of classes. There’ll be about twenty-five different tents and there’ll be displays from most all of the clubs on campus,” Brady said.

Student Julie Nguyen and Yarn Club co-adviser Becky Helbling pick out yarn during the club’s first field trip to St. Louis’ different knitting stores.

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PHOTO BY: KAVAHN MANSOURI

ALEX KENDALL PHOTO EDITOR EMERITUS

Archer Roundup:Last years results

BaseballSix-seeded Three Rivers Community

College ended the Archers’ season with a 10-6 victory over STLCC in the Region XVI Tournament. After winning their first round game, 12-2, over four-seeded Mineral Area College, the fifth-seeded Archers fell in back-to-back games of the double elimination tournament, effectively ending their season.

The Archers finished with an overall record of 30-25. They managed to stay above a .500 winning percentage, both at home (10-9) and on the road (17-11).

Collectively, the Archers’ had a batting average of .274, scored 284 runs and slammed 26 homers. The 26 homeruns gave STLCC a Top-30 spot in the country for junior college baseball programs, in the category, ranking them 28th overall for homeruns hit.

Sophomore infielder, Larry Schimsa, led the team with 10 homeruns. Schimsa also led the team in batting average, hitting .366. Five freshmen also joined in the act of hitting long balls.

Men’s BasketballIn what would prove to be Hall of

Fame Head Coach Randy Albrecht’s final season, the Archers reached the 20-win plateau, finishing the season with an overall record of 20-12. It was the 28th consecutive winning season for Albrecht.

After starting the season 14-2, which included an 11-game winning streak, STLCC’s rollercoaster season in the wins and loss column bounced up and down, all the way to the Regions XVI Title

game. After winning a nail biter in the semifinals, 49-48, over two-seeded Wentworth Military Academy, the three-seeded Archers’ fell to the top-seeded Scouts from Metropolitan Community College Penn Valley. The loss ended their season and their chances at a National Tournament bid.

Enis Mehmedovic was the lone returning player from the 2011-12 Archers. The 11-player squad, made up of seven freshman and four sophomores, averaged 69.9 points per game and averaged 32.7 rebounds per game.

Men’s SoccerThe Archers’

season came to an end with a 3-2 double overtime loss to M e t r o p o l i t a n C o m m u n i t y C o l l e g e - Pe n n Valley in the opening round of the Region XVI To u r n a m e n t . STLCC finished with a record of 5-12-2.


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PHOTO BY: ASHLEY HIGGINBOTHAM

The 2012-13 season marked the first season for Head Coach Dan O’Keefe at the helm of STLCC men’s soccer. O’Keefe played professionally for six different teams in 10 years. Afterward, he coached the women’s soccer team at Florissant Valley following the conclusion of his playing career.

As a team, the Archers scored 37 goals in 19 games. Freshman forward, Culan O’Keefe, led STLCC with eight goals, attributing to nearly 22 percent of the team’s scoring.

SoftballSTLCC suffered their second

loss to East Central College in the Regions XVI championship game, 12-2, in as many seasons. It was only the second time this season that the Lady Archers had lost by 10 or more runs. They finished the 2013 campaign with a record of 14-23.

The 2013 season was the first

season under Head Coach Greg Ellis. Under the first season of Ellis, the Lady Archers raised their team batting average from .273 in 2012 to .291 this season.

Sophomore infielder, Tory Ellis, finished the season hitting .463 and led the team with 44 hits, eight doubles and six homeruns. The Lady Archers had five different players finishing the season hitting above .300.

Women’s BasketballFor the third straight season,

the Lady Archers brought home the Region XVI Title, as they knocked off Cottey College, 56-36, in the semifinals, and Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley, 66-54, in the Region XVI Title game. The regional championship run gave the Lady Archers a berth in the NJCAA Tournament.

After coming up empty handed in the win column, the previous two seasons at the

NJCAA Tournament, the 2012-13 Lady Archers made the third time count. After falling 63-43 in the first round to Illinois Central College, the Archers defeated Chesapeake College 77-67 in the consolation bracket. The win gave the Lady Archers their first ever victory at the national tournament.

Following their win against Chesapeake, the Lady Archers lost to Owens Community College, 73-51. The loss ended the Archers’ season and gave them an overall record of 20-11.

STLCC averaged 65.4 points per game and 38.8 rebounds per game.

Freshman guard, Kalah Martin, led all Lady Archer freshman in games played with 30. Her 38.2 percent shooting from the field ranked in the Top 5 on the team for girls who played in at least 19 games.

Women’s Soccer

After losing in the Regions XVI Championship game in 2011, the 2012 Lady Archers took the next step defeating Metropolitan Community College-Maple Woods 1-0 in the 2012 Regions XVI Title game. The victory helped give the Lady Archers their first NJCAA Tournament appearance.

Although the Lady Archers came away without a win in the double elimination tournament, the Lady Archers built upon what they had accomplished in 2011 to a more successful 2012 season.

The 21-girl squad, put together with six sophomores and 15 incoming freshman, finished the season 10 games above .500, with an overall record of 16-6.

Freshmen forwards Jessica Smugala (12) and Donna Jolliff (9) led the team in goals. Jolliff also led the team in assists, putting up another nine-spot in that category. Smugala was second on the team in assists with five.

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ARCHIVED PHOTOS

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PLACES TO EAT

STUDY SPOTS

FAST,EASY,CHEAP

YUMMY ESCAPES

GRETCHEN DANIELS COPY EDITOR EMERITUS

STAYCATION 23

Local Harvest 1 mile west on Big Bend Boulevard

Delicious, locally-sourced food and quick service

Kaldi's 1.7 miles north on S Kirkwood Road

Lively, yet relaxing environment and patio seating

St. Louis Bread Co.1.8 miles north on Lindbergh Boulevard

Comfortable seating, cookies and cupcakes

Dunkin' Donuts 1 mile south on S Kirkwood Road

Cheap, fast breakfast and easy for a

mid-afternoon coffee

Chipotle 1 mile south on S Kirkwood Road

Tacos, burritos and guacamole

Five Guys 1.8 miles south on S Kirkwood Road

Fast and greasy brain food

HotPot Smoothie Shop 2.5 miles north on Geyer Road

Vegetarian, vegan and paleo food options

Dewey's 1.8 miles north on S Kirkwood Road

Wonderful pizza and delicious salads

Bar Louie 1.7 miles north on S Kirkwood Road

TVs and bar food distract from school stress

$

ILLUSTRATION BY JAKE HUNN

Physically going to class can be a hassle for some students. Luckily, there is an alternative at STLCC-Meramec and many students are finding it convenient for their lifestyle.

Online classes are a way to learn just as much from classes without actually attending them. It relieves the burden on students from having to wake up and drive to class. It is the best solution for students who like to take classes on their own time. Along with this, students can have a flexible schedule to complete their work.

“It was better than I expected. The class was set up so I could work on assignments whenever I wanted in the one-week time frames. The assignments weren’t mundane busy-work formatting either. They actually engaged the students in what was the main focus of the chapter and had relevance to real life situations,” Meramec student Eric Benner said.

Most of the classes are set up on Blackboard - the STLCC content management system. This website spans grades, assignments, syllabi, emails

and additional course materials that instructors use at their disposal to help the students. Though this system is used by all students, it benefits online students.

Students should note that online classes are just as important as “face to face” classes. The same credits, hours and time are dedicated to these classes. Students do not get off easy. There is work involved with any type of class.

The cost of an online class is the same as a traditional one. Factoring in the fact that most online classes are the same by the receipt, physical classrooms may seem better for the price. However, with the cost of gasoline, some students may prefer saving a few bucks a week. Staying home in their pajamas solving math problems.

Students can also save money on books and course materials.

Some students may feel awkward in a physical classroom setting, mingling and meeting new people; this is a solution for them. No more awkward group assignments

or having to present in front of class. These classes require assignments to be turned in and tests to be taken.

Even the testing seems to be more popular in online classes.

“The workload seems a bit higher,” Benner said. “But there is no class time to get in the way of the work.”

If a student is tired of hearing a professor lecture, then perhaps an online course with resources such as MyMathLab or Graphics Online is the solution. Instead of the hour in class, students could be reading and completing assignments.

“I felt that since I wasn’t forced to show up at a certain time and waste hours in a classroom, that the homework assignments weren’t such a chore,” Benner said.

On the other end of the spectrum, some students find online classes inaccessible.

“I wouldn’t have the motivation to take an online class,” Meramec student Sara Tallyn said.

One issue is that some universities do not accept online credits.

“Students who need the

atmosphere of a classroom to feel motivated will lack the motivation to take an online class. Going into a typical classroom, for some students, is a necessity to pay attention and learn,” Tallyn said.

Some faculty also recognize the lack of face-to-face communication to be a problem for a healthy learning environment.

“I really think a face to face setting is better for communicat ion,”Meramec Professor Jacki Barker said. Barker teaches Communication Between Cultures as an online class.

“Some online classes are great for certain subjects, but others such as communication require a physical classroom to be effective,” Barker said. “Whichever the student chooses is ultimately up to him or her and the classes being offered.”

Benner said his classes are all headed to an online format.

“All my classes from now on are probably going to be online. I just enjoy the atmosphere of my own home more than a classroom,” Benner said.

Online vs. Face-to-FaceStudents have options for classes

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CORY MUEHLEBAC OPINIONS EDITOR

The City of Kirkwood Welcomes You!

Kirkwood Farmers’ Market-Located in historic downtown Kirkwood at the corner of Argonne and Taylor

-Open April through October PLUS the Christmas Tree Lot in December-Locally grown produce, fresh baked goods, and live music on Saturdays!

Art at the Station!-Local artists’ work on display at the

Kirkwood Train Station Year ‘Round FREE! -Art can be viewed when the station is open

for passengers

Website, E-News, City Blog, Twitter and Facebook!Visit us at www.kirkwoodmo.org

-Sign up for the Weekly Happenings E-Newsletter (Email us: [email protected]) -Read the City Blog All Aboard and sign up to receive updates: www.allaboard.kirkwoodmo.org

-Follow us on Twitter for road closings and other updates - @kirkwoodcity-”Like” us on Facebook: Kirkwood, MO Parks & Recreation AND Kirkwood Greentree Festival

Kirkwood Park:-Located a few blocks from downtown Kirkwood at the corner of Geyer and Adams

-Tennis Courts, Playgrounds, NEW & IMPROVED Walking/Running Path, Fitness Trail, Picnic Sites, Pavilions, Softball Fields, and Fishing at Walker Lake!

-Ice Rink is Open Year ‘Round

Get Connected!

STAYCATION26

Meramec chillaxin’

Student Center/CafeteriaNoise Level: HighTraffic: High

Although the Student Center is almost constantly busy with students, and is not what some people would call quiet, it does offer a large amount of seating, the bookstore and the cafeteria. This makes it a smart stop for the student who do not mind a bit of noise while they study. The Student Center is also is a nice place to mingle with students and grab lunch during passing periods.

Lecture HallNoise Level: Medium to LowTraffic: High

The lecture hall provides a large open space for studying during periods when students are waiting for their next classes. The upstairs accomodates students looking to work in groups with large round tables and several rolling dry erase boards. The downstairs level provides several vending machines and seating as well as a collection of creatures in the walls of the first floor hallway leading to Science West. The Lecture Hall may be noisy from time to time, but definitely has its perks for students who are looking for a new study spot.

The Quad/LibraryNoise Level: Medium to LowTraffic: High

The quad can get a little noisy from time to time, but during class periods the area is an empty and shady. Its a great place to relax and read a book or finish homework. The library is a perfect place to get a ton of work done in a quiet, low traffic envirom. The library offers seating, computers, books, magazines and even a section of films.

Places to study around campus, quiet and loudKAVAHN MANSOURI EDITOR IN CHIEF EMERITUS

PHOTOS BY DAVID KLOECKENER

Packing Up Camp

Students looking to further their education or start a career path past Meramec, need not look any further than “Packing up Camp.” Whether a student is transferring to a four-year university or beginning a long career in the work force, “Packing up Camp” will guide them through the insights of

building resumes, transferring to colleges in the St. Louis area or around the state of Missouri. Need an internship this summer? We can help you with that, too. Giving students a step in the right direction, this section will be all one needs to pack with them for a successful future after Meramec.

PACKING UP CAMP 27


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University of Central MissouriUndergraduate Admissions: PO Box 800 UMC Ward Edwards Building, Room 1400, Warrensburg Mo, 64093On-Campus Tuition: 213.15On-Campus Nonresident Tuition: 426.30Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,683

Picture This: Missouri Schools at a Glance

Aside from the colleges and universities that call St. Louis home, schools all across the state of Missouri provide an education that gives their students a stepping stone toward a successful career.

Along with these 10 schools, Missouri offers numerous other educational institutions that can help further the students learning process.

Truman State UniversityUndergraduate Admissions: Registrar’s Office100 E. Normal St., McClain Hall 104Kirksville, Mo. 63501Undergraduate Tuition: 7,096 (2013-2014 Academic Year)Nonresident Tuition: 12,968 (2013-2014 Academic Year)Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 5,600

Southeast Missouri State University (Semo)Undergraduate Admissions: MS 3550 One University Plaza, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63701Tuition: 225 per credit hourNonresident Tuition: 399.50 per credit hourUndergraduate Enrollment: 10,541 (fall 2012)

University of Missouri (Mizzou)Undergraduate Admissions: 230 Jesse Hall, Columbia, Mo. 65211Tuition: 274 per creditNonresident Fee: 478.30 per credit added to TuitionUndergraduate Enrollment: 26,996 (fall 2012)

JUSTIN VILLMER COPY EDITOR

PACKING UP CAMP 29

University of Missouri – Saint Louis (UMSL)St. Louis One University Blvd. St. Louis, Mo. 63121Summer 2013- spring 2014 Tuition: 315.80 per creditSummer 2013- spring 2014 Nonresident Tuition: 814.30 per creditUndergraduate Enrollment: (fall 2009) over 4,000

Washington University Saint LouisOne Brookings Drive, St. Louis, Mo. 63130Tuition for 2013-2014 Academic Year: 44,100 before other fees apply. 58,343 total charges (including room and board, but does not include books and supplies.Undergraduate Enrollment (fall 2012): 7,303

Webster UniversityUndergraduate Admissions: Webster Hall 130, 470 East Lockwood Ave. St. Louis, MO 631192013-2014 Full-time Tuition: 23,700 per Academic Year2013-2014 Part-time Tuition applies at St. Louis campus 610 per credit, 415 at Kansas City campusUndergraduate Enrollment (St. Louis): 3,002

Lindenwood UniversityUndergraduate Admissions: 209 S. Kingshighway St. Charles, Mo 63301Full-time Tuition: 22,940 (includes room and board)Part-time Tuition: 428 per credit hourUndergraduate Enrollment: 4,704

Maryville UniversityUndergraduate Admissions650 Maryville University Dr. St. Louis, Mo 63141Full-time Tuition: 11,906 per semesterPart-time Tuition: 714 per credit hourUndergraduate Enrollment: 1,800

Missouri Baptist University Undergraduate Admissions: One College Park Dr., Saint Louis, Mo 63141Resident Tuition: 28,834 (includes Room and Board)Commuter Tuition: 20,764Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,850

Find a book, read a magazine, or check out a movie. The library

collection includes more than 120,000 books, periodicals, films, music, and audio books.

Get research help. The Reference Desk is staffed by friendly, professional librarians ready to consult on your research topic, help you navigate online resources, or show you how to locate and request books or journal articles.

Use a computer. We have 60 PC’s, 20 laptops and 2 iPads. Check out a laptop or iPad at the Circulation/Reserve Desk for use in the building. Or, use our wireless network with your own device. The Information Access Lab is an open computer lab as well as a service point for students with disabilities.

Study alone or with a group. Find a quiet or silent zone, or use our social space (quiet conversation allowed), or a group study room.

LIB 101 - Introduction to Library and Online Research This one-credit course offers students instruction in using library resources, including the Internet, online databases, and the li-brary catalog. Prerequisite: Reading Proficiency. Can be taken for Honors credit.

Upgrade your research skills with a library credit course!

Please stop in, call or email if you have any questions. Library Circulation: 314.984.7797 Reference Help: 314.984.7613

Library resources, hours, and contact information at www.stlcc.edu/libraries. Ask a Librarian

Meramec Library

Learn cybersecurity at Missouri’s only institution that offers a bachelor’s degree. As people seek economic, military and personal advantage over us and our country, experts are increasingly in demand.

Save the environment and join the green movement by choosing sustainable energy systems management or environ mental science.

Combine computer science skills and imagination to create the next gaming phenomenon where creative employees are in high demand.

Agricultural and food scientists sustain the nation’s food supply by ensuring productivity and food safety. Today’s environment is dynamic and dependent on technology.

Link scientific concepts with engineering applications in our nationally accredited engineering technology program.

Learn the latest methods and skills of forensic chemistry in the new Forensic Science Research and Education Lab.

Enhance your potential to get into medical school in our biomedical scholars pro gram that has you net working with medical professionals throughout your pre-med program.

Prepare to become a registered professional engineer by majoring in our nationally accredited engineering physics program.

Enter a field with an overall 0 percent unemployment rate by preparing for a career in actuarial science in the department of mathematics. (CNNMoney.com)

Protect marine life in one of the only inland marine biology programs in the U.S., combining a traditional college experi ence with practical experience at the Gulf Coast Research Lab in Mississippi.

Accreditations and Recognitions

ABET • Computer Science • Engineering Physics • Engineering Technology American Chemical Society Association of Technology Management and Applied Engineering

National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science

Science, Technology and Agriculture

(573) 651-2590 • [email protected] • www.semo.edu • m.semo.edu

Explore

Schooling Around Town

For many students, a two-year college is a stepping-stone toward a four-year degree. While some students may choose to continue their education out of state, there are several options in the St. Louis area as well. STLCC sends more transfer students to four-year universities than any other college in Missouri.

The college has transfer coordinators available at every branch of STLCC, online transfer guides and a Course Equivalency Database to see which Meramec credits will transfer. The STLCC website also features a database of scholarships for students to search according to their strengths.

Webster University With an average class size of 20 to 25 and a student to faculty ratio of 16:1, Webster University “provides greater opportunity for collaborative learning and student-faculty interaction,” according to the Webser University website. The university is partnered with STLCC-Meramec and offers transfer scholarships to those who show merit (such as the renewable $2000 Gorlok Scholarship).

Lindenwood UniversityNamed for the Linden trees that cover the campus, Lindenwood is a four-year liberal arts college inspired by Judeo-Christian values and democracy. Transfer guides are available on the university’s website listed by major. It gives transfer students a variety of scholarship opportunities from organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America and the Girl Scouts of the United States of America, the Y, Junior Achievement and A+.

PACKING UP CAMP32

MICHELLE BARRY STAFF WRITER

Students can find an education in their own backyard with multiple colleges and universities to choose from

Maryville UniversityThis university ranks as one of America’s Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report, and offers 50 undergraduate, 10 graduate and four doctoral degree programs. Conveniently, the Maryville Corporate Centre and St. Luke’s hospital provide internship opportunities for students. The college offers four merit-based transfer scholarships based on GPA.

University of Missouri-St. Louis UMSL’s web page displays their most appealing draws: “UMSL offers 46 bachelor’s degree programs, 30 master’s degree programs, 14 doctoral degree programs, 28 graduate certificate programs, two education specialist programs, and the only professional optometry degree in Missouri.” It boasts diversity and a location right next to the Delmar Loop.

Fontbonne UniversityA Catholic liberal arts college founded in 1923 by the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph, Fontbonne prides itself on its service opportunities for students. It offers programs training students on treating diabetics and communication disorders, and its business and administration department is now its most popular place of study. Most notable of its many transfer scholarship opportunities is its STLCC scholarship; which is awarded to STLCC graduates with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

PACKING UP CAMP 33

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1 WHERE TO?Look around. Figure out what colleges you have in mind so you know where to start.

2SET UP MEETINGHead over to Clark Hall and set up a meeting with an adviser. Have in mind what your major might be and what college you are setting your sights on.

3 TAKE TOURSVisit the universities you are thinking about attending. It’s important to get a feel for the campus while making a decision on where to go.

APPLICATIONSFill out applications. Make sure you have your checkbook handy; most universities have an application fee. Apply to several universities and have backups.

4

WAITThe application process can take weeks and, in some cases, months. Focus on your classes and �nish out the semester strong. Think scholarships.

5

BE ACCEPTEDCongratulations. Time to move on from Meramec and �nish up your college education. Good luck and best wishes.

6STEPBY STEP

ILLUSTRATION BY: CASSIE KIBENS

PACKING UP CAMP 35

A common misconception is that internships are a walk on the beach, but they can be the very opposite. Depending upon your major, your days could be filled with long working hours, but not without the reward of a beneficial learning experience.

For those having trouble with finding resources

to find the right internship, we have provided a list of some of the best internships around St. Louis. Get your feet wet or dive face first into the websites listed below, experience new ideas with new people and explore vast career opportunities through an internship.

Internships:Getting Your Feet Wet

*All information on internships provided by STLCC-Meramec Career and Employment Center

Vault Career IntelligenceCrossroads MagazineSimply HiredWetfeetAfter CollegeQuintessential CareersGeorgian CollegeAAASIEM Study AbroadInterns Over 40Internships4YouIndeedJobs OnlineInternZooDream CareersNATO Internship ProgramWooster CollegeEntertainment CareersNational Science FoundationExperienceUS State DepartmentYour EmploymentPublishing Internships Book JobsCareer BuilderTravel n Work

http://vault.comhttp://xrds.acm.orghttp://simplyhired.comhttp://wetfeet.comhttp://aftercollege.comhttp://quintcareers.comhttp://georgiancollege.cahttp://aaas.orghttp://iemstudyabroad.comhttp://internsover40.blogspot.comhttp://internships4you.comhttp://indeed.comhttp://jobsonline.comhttp://internzoo.comhttp://summerinternships.comhttp://nato.inthttp://wooster.eduhttp://entertainmentcareers.nethttp://nsf.gov/#1http://experience.comhttp://state.govhttp://campusinternships.comhttp://uwpress.wisc.edu/jobshttp://bookjobs.comhttp://careerbuilder.comhttp://travel-n-work.com/start

Does one of these statements describe you?

a) I attend class but take lousy notes. b) I blank out on tests even though I’m prepared c) I’m overwhelmed by how much I have to do. d) Blackboard, Banner, bummer…technology demands are killing me. e) I need to raise my GPA so I have more transfer options.

If any one of the above statements applies, you owe it to yourself to visit learning specialists at Meramec Academic Center. Unleash your full academic potential by visiting The MAC early and often this semester.

Meramec Academic Center Communications North, Room 124

314.984.7390 FREE--

Ask about our

Learning and

Study Strategies

Inventory tool.

M.A.C.

F

A1. Time management and procrastination

2. Taking powerful, relevant notes

3. Reading with deeper comprehension

4. Improving test performance

5. Evaluating your best learning strategies

CC

No Appointments Necessary!

D

G.P.A.

Make the Most of Your Educational Investment!

Mer

amec Academic Center

Make the most of your educational investment! Become a more strategic and successful learner.

Fall and Spring Hours: Mon. 9a.m. - 4:30p.m., Tues.-Thurs. 9a.m. - 8p.m., Fri. 9a.m. - 3p.m.

Computer Access

College Writing CenterServing students since 1965

Meramec: Communications North 122 Fall/ Spring Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 8a.m. - 8p.m., Fri. 8a.m. - 3p.m.

Summer Hours available.South County Education & University Center: please call (314) 984-7226

Professional Writing Specialiststo help you:

Constructive feedback Comfortable environment

We are happy to help you with writing for any class, as well as transfer essays!

Correct grammar error patternsFind or narrow a topicFocus and support a thesis

Organize your thoughts on paper

One credit, self-directed courses:Fine-tune scholarship and transfer essays or applications

ENG 003: Sentence Combining, ENG 004: Grammar ReviewENG 006: Writing Effective Paragraphs, ENG 007: Business Writing Review

Math Tutoring at Meramec

Summer hours: SW 211: M - Th: 7a.m. - 9p.m. Fri. closed.SCEUC: M - Th: 9a.m. - 1p.m. ; 5p.m. -

9p.m. ; Fri. closed.Fall 2010 hours: SW 211: M - Th: 7a.m. - 9p.m. ; Fri. 7a.m. - 4: 30p.m.

SCEUC: M - Th: 9a.m. - 1p.m. ; 5p.m. - 9p.m. ; Fri. 9a.m. - 12p.m.CN 102: M - TH 8a.m. - 3:30p.m.; Fri. 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Our Mission is to facilitate the mastery and understanding of mathematical techniques and problem solving.

Our experienced staff is happy to help students with algebra, trigonometry and calculus.

Please come and see us!

“I loved having such a warm environment to study. [The tutors] never made me feel that a question was stupid and really helped me understand the problems.”

~ Student

Nationally and internationally, students who participate in SI earn higher course grades and withdraw less often than

non-SI participants.

Supplemental Instruction

Supplemental Instruction consists of weekly group study/review sessions for traditionally difficult courses and is aimed at success through collaborative learning.

Session are guided by trained SI Leaders, who have successfully completed the course for credit with the instructor you now have.

Each Semester SI is offered in approximately 40 classes, for various sections.

Check in the Academic Support Office, CN 222 to see if your class has a section of Supplemental instruction.

Targeting high-risk coursesOpen to all students

Currently peer tutors are available in: French, German, Spanish, Advanced Imaging, Architectural Graphics, Chemistry, Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Earth Science, and History.

For tutor schedules or a class not listed, contact Margaret McLellan: (314) 984-7877.

Peer TutorsStudents helping Students

Developmental CoursesRDG 021: Reading Improvement LabRDG 031: Intro to College Reading LabRDG 053: Vocabulary Improvement Lab

RDG 054: Study Skills and NotetakingRDG 055: Study Skills and Notetaking Lab (advanced)

Consult our professional learning specialists to improve your performance in one or more

of the following areas:

COL 020: College Orientation and Study SkillsCOL 020 assists students in the transition and acclimation to St. Louis Community College- Meramec campus. It is recommended that students taking any developmental course also enroll in COL 020.

JOIN the DISCUSSION!

Who’s the Greatest Behavioral, Psychological, or Educational Theorist?

Who’s Your Favorite?

Submit the name of your favorite theorist and a one to two sentence explanation of why you feel they’re the greatest or why they are your favorite; responses will be made into a display.

Send submissions to [email protected] or find the club on facebook by searching [email protected]

The Psychology and Counseling Club, for those interested in

(careers in) psychology, counseling, and/or mental health [faculty advisor: Susie Herman, 984-7723, [email protected]]

Remember mental health is everyone’s concern, campus counseling services (upstairs in Clark Hall)

are FREE!

Knock-Out Resumes

A resume is a document which highlights a person’s skills and experience for a potential job. However, resumes are not limited to college graduates and certified professionals.

“It’s never too early to start developing your resume,” said Jacqueline Meaders-Booth, manager of STLCC-Meramec’s Career and Employment Services. “You need a resume for more than just a job: you

need it to join organizations, for scholarship purposes and volunteer experiences.”

Information should be vague, but informative. Design and readability are also important components of a resume.

TAYLOR MENKE COPY EDITORCONTRIBUTIONS BY JAMES CLAIBORNE

Your Name555 AddressCity, State ZipPhone numbere-mail addressWebsite/portfolio address

General Information

Begin by assessing skills, activities, past employment, memberships and participation in extracurricular activities. Sometimes an employer may request reputable references in addition to these basics. The organization of the document should be fluid and easy-to-read.

Meaders-Booth suggests simple design. “Some people come in with a resume that has bold, italics, underlining, three or four different types of bullets, or they may have bullets here and then go into paragraph form, You have to stay consistent.” Meaders-Booth said.

Resume development is a constant process requiring self-evaluation and adapting to prospective employer interests. Meaders-Booth said it should not be a one-stop shop. “It’s more like you have to make a resume for every job that you’re applying to,” she said.

Skills

“[Employers look for] related experience. It depends on what they’re seeking from the application so you have to make sure you read the application thoroughly, to ensure that your resume is developed toward that information,” Meaders-Booth said.

For example, if a student is applying for a job as an office assistant his/her resume should reflect attributes relevant to that work such as Microsoft Office proficiency, previous experience in the field and

references relevant to the job. There are some simple rules to follow

when writing a resume, especially for the first time. Avoid using graphics unless applying for a graphic-specific job (in which case, the applicant might develop not just a resume but a portfolio). The resume should be free of errors or misspellings, be factually correct, and frequently updated to convey current skills.

“If this is your first year in college you

can definitely utilize information from high school, because that’s what you have,” Meaders-Booth said. “But when you become a college student we definitely want you to get involved with organizations and activities and public service so you can build your information from your college experience. High school information becomes the first thing you can start removing as you update your document.”

Experience

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S’MORE Memories

A campus attack, the resignation of President Wasson and frequent class cancellations are only the headlines of an eventful 2012-2013 school year at Meramec. Faculty experienced unnecessary frustration created by Chancellor Dorsey’s seemingly pointless professional development day.

During a time of mass confusion we also faced a reorganization of our departments. This past school year brought a climate of fear for students and faculty. We were left in the dark.

Amidst corruption and confusion, Meramec pulled through and brought many

successes to the table. Our baseball team, The Archers, brought home one of many wins under the lights at Busch Stadium. Meramec students bridged cultural gaps by discussing international issues through the Soliya Connect Program.

In 2012 and 2013 the Meramec

community overcame obstacles inflicted by administration and fellow students. Above all, we celebrated our successes. Here are the stories that reflect both our struggles and triumphs.

S’MORE MEMORIES 39


Wasson Resigns

STLCC-Meramec George Wasson tendered his resignation as Meramec president on Monday, April 29, 2013.

Wasson’s resignation came in the wake of a physical attack on Meramec student Blythe Grupe on April 18. Jevon Mallory, a now expelled Meramec student, attacked Grupe in the second floor women’s bathroom of Communications South.

At 5 p.m. on April 29 Chancellor Myrtle Dorsey sent a

campus wide email announcing she had accepted the resignation of Wasson. In the email she stressed the safety of STLCC students and the appointment of Wildwood Campus President Pam McIntyre as interim Meramec Campus President.

Wasson was asked to remain available for “unfinished actions” started during his time as president, and was placed on paid administrative leave until his contract expires on June 30, 2013,

according to Delancey Smith, Director of Public Information and Marketing

Vice President of Academic Affairs Andrew Langrehr said he was shocked by Wasson’s resignation.

“I’m a little shocked; a little shell shocked right now,” Langrehr said. “It’s a rude awakening. This is someone who’s been on this campus for I think nearly 30 years in a variety of capacities. To see him exit and

getting this email is going be a shock to a lot of people.”

Shock spread through the campus Monday evening as faculty, staff and administration received the Chancellor’s email. Vice President of Student Affairs Linden Crawford said she could not believe Wasson had resigned.

“I’m stunned. I’m absolutely stunned,” Crawford said. “I have a lot of positive experiences with President Wasson and I find this to be just shocking.”

‘He was one of us:’ Meramec President George Wasson resigns in aftermath of attackKAVAHN MANSOURI EDITOR IN CHIEF EMERITUS

S’MORE MEMORIES40

On Thursday, April 18, 2013, Professor Linda Copeland’s ENG030 class started like any other 8 a.m. class starts, dreary eyed students sat in desks and began a day of learning. But one particular student was missing from Copeland’s class.

Former STLCC-Meramec student Jevon Mallory was not among his classmates that Thursday; he had other plans in mind for an unsuspecting victim.

At 8:08 a.m., student Blythe Grupe left her 8 a.m. class to use the restroom. Mallory attacked Grupe in the upstairs bathroom of the Communications South building after hiding in a bathroom stall waiting, looking for a “random person” to attack, Grupe said.

Grupe said she had not noticed anyone in the bathroom prior to the attack.

“About five minutes into the class I left to use the restroom,” Grupe said. “Right when I was about to wash my hands, and I hadn’t noticed anyone around or anything, someone had walked in and kind of slipped passed me.

I realized someone was standing behind me, but at that point he had me in a headlock and was choking me with his arm.”

Mallory returned to the campus Tuesday, April 23 and was apprehended by Campus Police and escorted to the Student Affairs Office. He reportedly had a scheduled meeting with Vice President of Student Affairs Linden Crawford.

Mallory is being charged with a class D felony and was issued a $10,000 dollar bond, which has since been increased to $25,000. He was held in St. Louis County Jail until he made bail. Grupe said she had never met Mallory before and that the attack seemed random. She said Mallory tried to calm her down during the attack in a “gentle” tone.

“He was saying things like ‘please be quiet’ and shushing me,” Grupe said. “Not in an aggressive way or an angry way but in a weird gentle tone, like there was some other motive.”

Grupe said she felt as if Mallory’s intent was to kill her. In the STLCC case report Campus

Police Chief Paul Banta wrote that Mallory said he wanted to “vent his rage” and planned on “withdrawing her from life,” referring to Grupe.

Mallory attempted to cover up the attack when Grupe’s English instructor Aurora Hill confronted him, she said.

“Apparently he was standing over me when my professor walked in and she started asking him what he was doing,” Grupe said. “He lied and was saying that he saw me choking and was trying to help but she knew.”

Grupe said Mallory then tried to run from the bathroom.

“He then ran past her and she followed him out and called for police. She knew they were around because they were responding to something different,” Grupe said. “They came in and caught him.”

Grupe said she is trying to get back to normal life.

“I’m getting better about talking about it; there’s no major injuries. I’m doing okay and trying to go back to classes and finish out the semester… normally,” Grupe said as her voice trembled.

An official memo from former President George Wasson was forwarded to faculty and staff at 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 23, five days after the attack and one day after Grupe went to the media with ehr story.

Campus Police Chief Paul Banta said he is not sure what the suspect had in mind when he came to the campus.

Banta said Mallory is unpredictable. “In my opinion he’s unpredictable, I couldn’t make an educated guess what he’s going to do,” Banta said.

Student attacked in campus bathroomKAVAHN MANSOURI EDITOR IN CHIEF EMERITUS

JEVON MALLORY

Crawford said she did not fully understand why Wasson resigned but was very sad.

“I don’t understand,” Crawford said. “I think we’re all capable, strong individuals but right now I’m just very sad. I’m very sad for President Wasson and I’m … very sad.”

Langrehr said that although the college is taking a beating in the media, the blame cannot be put on one person.

“Sort of the aftermath of it is what the focus is getting to be. The college is sort of taking a beating in the media right now,” Langrehr said. “I feel like there’s plenty of people who feel like there’s blame to go around about how it was handled.”

Student Governance President Philip Oehlerking said the chancellor should release a statement on why Wasson resigned.

“I think what the chancellor should probably do within the next couple days is release some sort of press information about the reasons why he resigned,” Oehlerking said. “I think if it were something personal or not related to this than we don’t need to know. But if it was, the students and the faculty would like to know.”

Coordinator of Enrollment Management Kim Fitzgerald said Wasson’s resignation had a direct link to last week’s events.

“I think it’s incredibly unexpected. I think it’s pretty obvious there’s a direct link to the recent incidents,” Fitzgerald said. “Having been here for over 25 years you see a lot of things happen and you see a lot of people come and go. You see a lot of people go out in flames.”

Fitzgerald said the campus faces many adjustments after the resignation.

“I’m still pretty surprised. George has been there for a long time and unfortunately longevity doesn’t really get you a whole lot when it comes to matters like this,” Fitzgerald said. “I think it’s going to be an adjustment. I think people were comfortable with George being there – maybe to a

certain extent people can be too comfortable.”

Langrehr said the campus is losing someone who had a passion for all things Meramec.

“You’re going to lose someone who was passionate about the Meramec campus who has been a faculty member and a variety of leadership roles on this campus,” Langrehr said. “Someone who rose to the level of president because of the support of his colleagues here on the campus.”

Langrehr said the campus will be blindsided by the news.

“I can’t really think of all the ways people are going to react to it – but I think shock is the best word,” Langrehr said. “I think there’s going to be some people who are sad, some who are mad, people who are kind of hurt, people who are going to want to know and from the way this looks he’s not going to be here to talk about it.”

In a challenging time, and in the wake of losing a president and vice president three years ago, the campus will feel the loss of Wasson, Langrehr said.

“It’s going to be hard on the campus to absorb this news, to absorb change to recognize we’re going to have to go through another [president] search when we just went through this not two years ago,” Langrehr said. “That was a difficult time for the campus. We lost a president and a vice president in a short amount of time.”

Langrehr said that Wasson was a important piece to the puzzle of Meramec.

“I think there’s a significant hole. He’s one of us. He’s part of the campus,” Langrehr said. “A number of people have been here a long time but having a president that has that … that’s going to be a loss. I think it’s going to be a significant loss at a challenging time.”

Oehlerking said he has heard several different theories to why Wasson resigned.

“Honestly, I think I would like to reserve judgment until I hear all the facts,” Oehlerking said. “There’s some theories or

stories that chancellor Dorsey forced him out and there’s some that say he wasn’t even on campus when everything happened so he shouldn’t have been ultimately responsible for what had happened. Or there’s other stories that are going on that say he was directly involved trying to sweep this under the rug.”

Jacob Hight, a student who works in the student life office, said the college should not look for scapegoats and instead should look for solutions.

“Horrible things are always going to happen and we should do our best to make sure they don’t happen. There’s never going to be a situation that’s so perfect an individual isn’t going to circumvent the safeguard of a certain place,” Hight said. “I think attention need to be paid to what really needs to be done instead of looking for scapegoats.”

Langrehr said Interim President Pam McIntyre, Ph.D. will be knowledgeable to the campus, but that Meramec must lick its wounds and adjust to the change.

“People know that person pretty well because she worked on this campus for a long time,” Langrehr said. “She knows the campus and knows a lot of people here but there’s going to be some healing and some adjustments we’ll need to go through.”

Langrehr added that there are

a lot of issues the campus faces outside of the resignation that will have to be discussed.

“People will have a lot of questions about the things we’re in the middle of,” Langrehr said. “We’re talking about potential reorganization of the division and we’re talking about shifting some renovation and some departments around; where they’re located. We’ll have to bring people up to speed.”

Crawford said that perspective like Wasson’s cannot be replaced.

“It’s a perspective that can’t be replaced with any other leader,” Crawford said. “Many leaders can come to an institution but to have the kind of history and perspective and knowledge of the campus community, the culture, the students, the course work, the state legislation, the issues facing us. I think that’s what we’re losing. I think we’re losing a significant resource for our campus.”

Fitzgerald said a lesson can be learned about student safety through the events of the past week.

“I think if we didn’t have procedures in place to deal with these kind of things – I think that’s pretty serious,” Fitzgerald said. “I think if we’re talking about the safety of students that should be the primary focus. I think if the lesson that we have to learn to get to that place then that’s just how it is.”


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Students left in the darkMONTAGE STAFF EDITORIAL

One of us is attacked on campus. The rest of us wait five days for an official statement from the college. We were left to believe rumors and embellished news from mainstream media outlets. We were left in the dark.

We are nervous about our safety. We are questioning our decisions to attend STLCC-Meramec. Our leader resigns without an explanation. We feel abandoned.

Meramec had the reputation of a safe school with outstanding faculty. Many students made a commute out of their way to attend Meramec for that reason. So what happens when an “isolated incident” occurs where one student decides to “withdrawal [another student] from life?” The college writes it off while the media plays it up.

We are Meramec. Without the students, it ceases to exist. How about a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T? Five days of silence brought chaos and heavy damage to the reputation of a typically safe, top-notch community college. We, the campus community, deserve to know if there is a security threat and the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act recognizes this as a right. Rebuilding the trust of students and faculty

depends on the administration recognizing these rights.We may be students; we may be learning, but we are smart enough to

know that these things could have been dealt with better and the school is compromising its future by giving its spotless reputation priority over a real sense of security, which are partially the products of trust and transparency.

Meramec is a place for higher education, understanding and the betterment of a community. It is not a place for petty politics nor the blame game. If decisions continue to be made based on a corporate model of control and fear, the students will be lost. We do not care whose fault it is nor is it necessary for anyone else to resign. We want what we came here for; expanded minds and changed lives.

Whatever prompted former President George Wasson to resign, losing the head of our institution is a step in the wrong direction. In this time of uncertainty we as a campus needed someone who could lead us through these disquieting days. Instead we are left in the dark. Without answers, our students, faculty and staff members are disrespected yet another time this academic year. These tendencies toward fear-based

management, if left unresolved, will have a lasting effect on the campus, faculty, staff and, most

importantly, the students of this institution.Action must be taken in the right direction,

resolving problems through constructive discussions, not taking short cuts to resolve

the college’s problems, making good on promises made to the faculty and staff,

working together as a college and not a corporation and most importantly

standing beside STLCC students, not on their shoulders.


S’MORE MEMORIES44


Under the lightsArchers play college-style baseball in a major league ballpark

ALEX KENDALL PHOTO EDITOR

When the STLCC Archers and Lewis and Clark Community College Trailblazers took the field at Busch Stadium on Sept. 9, the home plate was still peppered with dust from St. Louis Cardinals’ Matt Carpenter’s slide in the bottom of the tenth, to win their game 5-4 over the Milwaukee Brewers. The batter’s box still had remnants of where Cardinal outfielders’ Carlos Beltran and Matt Holliday had dug in, in the bottom of their first inning and hit homeruns to give the Cardinals a 3-0 lead. It would not be the only time three runs were scored in the bottom of a first inning that day.

As the 6:05 p.m. first pitch-start time drew closer, the temperature evened off at 74 degrees. Under a cloudless sky the Archers scampered out to their positions, just as the big leaguers do.

“I still say the biggest

moment is when you walk out the gate and you find yourself on a major league field and in uniform. It does not happen too often,” Archers head coach Tony Dattoli said. “It is a good time for the guys and to see them. They have a gleam in their eyes. That is why we do it. So they get a chance to be out there. That is what it is about.”

When the Archers dug in the batter’s box in their half of the first inning, infielder Matt Leinberger led off with an infield hit to the Trailblazers’ second baseman. Leinberger came around to score the game’s first run and the first of three runs the Archers would score in their bottom half of the first inning, en route to a 12-3 victory over the Trailblazers.

Leinberger’s mother, Tracey Naughton, sat in the second row beside the third base dugout as she watched her son play in his first college

baseball game at Busch Stadium.

“He scored the very first run of the season and I have it on video,” Naughton said.

The Archers scored three runs four times, in four different innings, while only allowing the Trailblazers to cross home plate three times; twice in the fourth inning and once in the top of the eighth.

The victory gave Dattoli and STLCC a three game winning streak against the Trailblazers at Busch Stadium, beating them in 2010 and 2011 as well.

“[When] you get an opportunity to get out to an early lead, it relieves a lot of tension. Obviously, the biggest thing is that you are on this stage and you do not want to go down shorthanded or play from behind,” Dattoli said. “The fact that we were able to pitch a good first inning and come out and score right

away, that alleviates a lot of pressure off of the guys. This game is so mental that if they can play relaxed, then good things happen.”

The eight-inning game concluded once time expired after two-and-a-half hours. It included 75 position players between the two teams and 24 pitchers. Each roster was emptied so every player could step foot onto Busch Stadium’s baseball diamond and play to the St. Louis city skyline.

An Archers victory was icing on the cake.

“It is nice to be able to keep the streak alive and get the guys to come out here. They played well,” Dattoli said after the win. “We had some quality at-bats. We threw the ball really well and made some nice plays on the field. It is always good to come out here at Busch Stadium and get a win.”


DAVID KLOECKENER PHOTO EDITOR

DAVID KLOECKENER PHOTO EDITOR

The disappearing actMeramec classes cut

STLCC-Meramec’s start of the fall

2012 semester was plagued by class cancellations. While

the beginning of the spring semester was “an improvement,”

according to Andrew Langrehr, Vice President of Academic Affairs,

cancellations are still a lingering issue on campus. With more than 60 classes axed during the fall semester, students and faculty members were left scrambling to fill course loads and re-enroll in classes.

“When we built the schedule it was based on having higher

enrollment than what came in, so we had more to cut,” Langrehr said. “Coming into the spring we didn’t cut

as many [classes]. I think there is a little over 1,400 sections, between 1,400 and 1,500 classes offered this spring.”

Langrehr added that fewer classes were cut on the cancellation day than we cut last semester.

“I think a little over 60 classes were withdrawn, between 60 and 70

withdrawn, which is an improvement over the fall. I think the department

anticipated that enrollment was a little lower. I think that they managed it,” Langrehr said. “When I say we withdrew between 60 and 70 classes that wasn’t in the last week before classes. Probably only a third of those are

withdrawn on that class cancellation day.”English Department Chair David Taylor said the

department took steps to minimize cancellations by anticipating an enrollment drop.

“What we did is we looked at the spring schedule and anticipated a decline in enrollment by about 10

percent and then we offered a fewer number of courses to match that enrollment,” Taylor said. “It wasn’t necessarily

eliminating sections but the number of seats we offer.”Langrehr said administration tried to act as advocates for

students and faculty. “The deans are advocates for students and faculty and they try to give that class every chance to make to the best of their ability,” Langrehr said. “Sometimes that means that you hold one and it gets canceled late and people are scrambling.”

Departments saw the turmoil caused last year and planned ahead, Langrehr said.

“I think that people saw how it went in the fall and people didn’t want to have that sort of vibe again,” Langrehr said. “I saw a lot less [cancellation] notices as I walked down the hall.”

In addition to class cancellations, the college also suffered a loss of 900 students during the fall 2012 semester, according to Langrehr.

“Enrollment is down,” Langrehr said. “We had a big increase in the last few years when the economy went bad. We anticipated coming back to some norm but we’d like it to be a little bit higher.”

Langrehr said administration is focusing on making the right moves when it comes to scheduling.

“It’s something we’re focused on; we’re trying to schedule classes where you could get a broad number of people to take them,” Langrehr said. “What’s bad is when you budget for x number of students and you get less than that.”

Langrehr said the college does its best to make sure classes come to fruition.

“I’d say we do our best to plan knowing the variables but there are intangibles that you can’t always know,” Langrehr said. “That’s why I think we improved a little bit this spring from last fall because we saw what happened.”

Langrehr said canceling classes is not something the college looks forward to doing.

“The department chairs don’t like canceling classes, the deans don’t like canceling classes. No one likes it. So we do our best to avoid it,” Langrehr said.

S’MORE MEMORIES46


‘We were treated like children’

Faculty express concerns with leadership, Chancellor responds


It was a day off for students and a day of professional development “hell” for some STLCC employees that led to the Thursday, Oct. 18, 2012 board of trustees meeting in which STLCC Chancellor Myrtle Dorsey was confronted by several faculty members.

Florissant Valley professor Carol Berger, Ph.D. was one of the several faculty members to speak at the board of trustees meeting. Berger said in her 31 years of teaching with STLCC she had never attended a professional development day that was as big of a failure.

“I’ve been to every staff development day and I have to say, they haven’t always been winners, but I’ve always come away with something,” Berger said. “I’m sorry. I think maybe the road to hell is paved with good intentions and there were a lot of people who were present Tuesday who would have said we were, in fact, in hell.”

The faculty expressed concerns regarding Tuesday, Oct. 16, when all STLCC campuses were closed and students were free to enjoy a day off while employees attended the annual professional development day at the Forest Park campus. Twelve hundred to 1,400 faculty and staff were seated in Forest Park’s un-air-conditioned gymnasium on the 80-degree day for eight hours, according to STLCC-Meramec Assistant Professor Lisa Mizes, who spoke at the board of trustees meeting. Mizes, along with eight other STLCC employees, spoke at the meeting describing their

frustration with the development day and the chancellor’s management of the college.

‘Climate of Fear at all Levels’The last item on the agenda

before the faculty members addressed the board was the Chancellor’s Report, in which Dorsey went over a few items and shared some words on the professional development day.

“I took that day to focus on communications. That was the intent; to tell people what we were doing, how we were doing and actually have some experts there to talk about those things,” Dorsey said. “It’s my understanding that it wasn’t quite taken that way. I understand where there is some confusion. The intent was not to be disrespectful to anyone; the intent was not to make anyone feel badly about having to take leave or whatever.”

National Education Association (NEA) Junior College Division vice president and STLCC-Florissant Valley Professor Cindy Campbell was the first to speak for the faculty members at the BOT meeting.

Campbell recalled being “talked down to” by an unnamed member of the administration at the development day for speaking out on the importance of faculty.

“I will not apologize or alter my feelings or thoughts related to the importance of faculty,” Campbell said. “We are not a corporation and should not act as such. We the faculty are the foundational block of STLCC, and faculty in general are the foundational block of any academic institution.”

Meramec Professor Kay Blalock, Ph.D., walked past the table where speakers addressing the board were asked to sit when her name was called, she turned her back to the board and faced her colleagues and stated she would not turn her back on them.

“Perhaps it is time for the board to acknowledge that low morale and a climate of fear at all levels, across the district, can seriously affect the mission of the college, the success of our students and the image as an institution of higher learning of which STLCC is known,” Blalock said. “The disorganized event, the disgruntlement of those in attendance, the lack of productivity and the disrespect shown by the chancellor to the STLCC employees are dismal manifestations of the corporate direction that we’re headed in. We were treated like children,” Blalock said.

‘Relentless Micromanagement’Deaf Communications

professor Mary Leubke said the professional development event was representative of a “much larger problem.”

“It was perceived as the worst staff development day we’ve ever had,” Luebke said. “This event is representative of a much larger problem. The board is not in touch with anyone other than the chancellor, everything is top down management, everything is a secret and we’ll find out after the fact on all things.”

Leubke added that she felt the college was at a standstill with “relentless micromanagement.”

National Education Association (NEA) Junior College Division vice president and STLCC-Florissant Valley Professor Cindy Campbell addresses the board at the board of trustees meeting. Campbell said the faculty is the “foundational block” of any academic institution.

“There is either no reason to go to your dean, vice president or president because their hands are tied or they’re as much in the dark as we are,” Leubke said. “Nothing gets done and things don’t get approved so we can’t move forward because of relentless micromanagement.”

The rain of criticism did not stop at the professional development day. Meramec professor Margaret Hvatum spoke on STLCC’s budget cutting affecting classes and students’ ability to learn. Hvatum said faculty members were willing to work in low-enrollment format classes and for less pay, but were denied.

“When faculty are willing to work for less you should take us up on our offer,” Hvatum said.

Leubke said respect for STLCC employees is little to none and that the college is running in a “climate of fear.”

“Perceptions are leading to a culture of fear. I just spent a year fighting and beating breast cancer; so I am now afraid of very little,” Leubke said. “There is no respect for any segment of the employment population, especially faculty. In fact, there is downright distaste for faculty.”


CONTINUED ON PAGE 49

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On April 11, 2012, in the Library Confluence room, the International Visitor Leadership Program (IPVL) visited with the students of the Meramec branch of the Soliya Connect program.

The Connect program is a way for students all around the world to have discussions about current international issues. Students discuss topics in chat rooms in an effort to learn about one another’s cultures.

Five visitors from the program spoke in a discussion reflecting on how the Soliya program works and how it can benefit students.

Argentinian Alejandro Emanuel Belmonte; Executive Director of Our Mendoza Foundation, Armenian Izabella Abgaryan; Blogger and Civil Activist, Belarus native Alexey Leonchik; Project Manager, United Nations Development Program, Palestinian Jenny Baboun; Translator with Independent Ma’an News Agency’s English desk and Fungal James Tichawangana; Founder and Senior Web Imagineer at

Aripano Inirnity heard firsthand experiences from Meramec students who have previously and are currently participating in the program.

Students Ellen dePasquale, Deborah Caby, Kaitlin Hayes, Peter Kahn and Elizabeth Grant shared their Soliya connect experiences.

Meramec English professor Angela Hamilton brought Soliya Connect to the campus in October 2012. Meramec is the only institution in Missouri to take part in the program. She said the students who spoke are the best representation of what Soliya Connect can do for students.

“All of the students who are here have or are participating in the Soliya Connect program,” Hamilton said.

Soliya Connect Manager Nahid Ahmed gave a brief overview of the program for the visiting internationals.

“We’ve worked with over 4,000 students in 30 countries, more than a hundred institutions,” Ahmed said. “We work actively

to develop twentieth century skills such as critical thinking, multi-cultural communication and media literacy.”

Ahmed said the program gives students an opportunity to grow in an international sense.

“One of the things we’ve found was that new media provide a lot of opportunities for communication and exposure,” Ahmed said. “The goal of the Soliya program is to create structure for constructive dialogue.”

dePasquale said Soliya helps break down stereotypes and barriers through discussion.

“This has been one of the most wonderful experiences for me. Mainly because I get to meet people that I would never otherwise have the opportunity to meet,” dePasquale said. “We do spend a lot of time, especially in the beginning, not seeing others as they’ve maybe been represented because of the country they’re from.”

Caby said her view on the Israeli/Pakistani conflict has changed through conversations

with other students.“I found that I was changing

my mind at some points,” Caby said. “I can see both sides now; I can understand both sides now. As we get to know people through the Soliya program we come to a sort of understanding. We can see each other as friends. We can see each other as people we can learn from. We don’t see enemies anymore.”

Caby added that common ground is a major theme in the Soliya Connect program.

“No matter what country you live in, no matter what culture you come from, we’re all human beings,” Caby said. “We will find common ground if we dig and we work hard. We need to work a little bit harder – on all sides.”

Grant said the program can benefit every student that gets involved.

“It’s been fascinating; it’s been a really good experience,” Grant said. “It’s been a really positive experience I think for everyone.


Bridging the cultural gap: Soliya students share experiences with visitorsKAVAHN MANSOURI EDITOR IN CHIEF EMERITUS

Faculty Development Day: ‘We can do things better next time’CONTINUED FROM PAGE 47

‘Room for Improvement’After the speakers were

through, board of trustee member Hattie Jackson responded to speakers by stating STLCC can only grow from the professional development day experience and that she was disappointed employees were not “energized” by the event.

“I believe you learn from your experiences,” Jackson said. “I hope we can have a conversation about expectation and how we can have a world class professional

development program that embraces continuous learning for student success. I believe we can do that. I believe the chancellor’s own reflection we heard tonight, and we heard a lot of your reflection and I’m disappointed that you were not energized and it wasn’t a learning day.”

Jackson added the college has next year and hopes the college can come together to energize each other and focus on student success. Meramec President George Wasson said he felt the board and the chancellor were open to the faculties’ suggestions.

“It sounds to me as if the faculty feels that there is a lot of room for improvement and it sounded like the board and the chancellor were open to those suggestions,” Wasson said. “We’ll look for more ways to improve.”

Dorsey said although the board of trustees meeting was negative, she does not believe the event was received in a unanimously negative way. The important thing for STLCC is to evaluate what went wrong and do better next year, Dorsey said.

“Throughout everything that I do, I always tell people that it’s

important that you do it, evaluate it and you try to make it better next time,” Dorsey said. STLCC is in a period of a change and that she understands change can be difficult for employees, Dorsey said.

“Change is difficult, it’s very difficult and it makes people uncomfortable. I think that this was different for them,” Dorsey said. “And again I don’t have a point of reference as to what it was [like]. I always, no matter what I do, I always say we can do things better the next time,” Dorsey said.

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@themontage Volume 48 Issue 13 April 18, 2013www.meramecmontage.com fb.me/meramecmontage

Bridging The Cultural Gap

See story on page 12



@themontage Voume 48 Issue 1 August 30, 2012www.meramecmontage.com fb.me/meramecmontage

Students and faculty alike were left in a rush to reschedule classes at Clark Hall on Aug. 16, 2012. The cutoff date for classes to be reviewed for salvaging had arrived, and the final classes that did not meet ‘sustainability’ were given the ax. Approximately 30 courses were cut Aug. 16, yet other courses were cancelled in previous weeks, according to Vice President of Academic Affairs Andrew Langrehr.STLCC-Meramec President George Wasson said that cancellations fluctuated as a result of enrollment numbers increasing and decreasing as the college goes through a time of transition.

“It really is a scheduling management

issue in many ways. When enrollment is changing, and enrollment is down this semester – we scheduled courses anticipating we would have numbers like last fall. We have less than that,” Wasson said. “That means that sections aren’t filling as fast, and some will be hit harder than others.”

Wasson said that he understands students and faculty members may be upset, but in the wide range of offered courses few classes are affected.

“Are people upset? Yes. Would I be upset? Yes,” Wasson said. “But when you look at the overall number of sessions that we have here at the campus, it is a small percentage that actually get canceled.”

Story continued on page 3

KAVAHN MANSOURI EDITOR IN CHIEF


@themontage Volume 48 Issue 2 September 13, 2012www.meramecmontage.com fb.me/meramecmontage

Archers step up to bat

See stories on pages 11-12


@themontage Voume 48 Issue 3 September 27, 2012www.meramecmontage.com fb.me/meramecmontage

To Serve and ProtectOn the road to a safer campus

See stories on pages 6-7


@themontage Voume 48 Issue 7 December 6, 2012www.meramecmontage.com fb.me/meramecmontage

White tablecloths, flower arrangements, mood lighting and an in-house pianist transformed the school cafeteria into a banquet hall recognizing four emerging scholars for their achievements at Meramec at the First Annual Emerging Scholars banquet on Nov. 27. The Emerging Scholars is a new program for

Meramec, but has been successful at sister campus STLCC-Florissant Valley for the last 17 years.

“The Emerging Scholars Program has had a record of success at Florissant Valley and is something we looked into in the past but never improvised,” Wasson said. “It provides an opportunity for students

in developmental education to see that they are challenged but also a great opportunity and it’s great to have models who have been in the same place you have been and succeeded.”

The program recognizes students who have completed coursework in two or more developmental areas

including English, math and/or reading; successfully completed 24 or more credit hours in college-level coursework; achieved a 3.5 or higher grade-point average; and, participated in campus and community activities.

The then Acting Dean Angela Grupas, Ph.D., was credited by

Re-defining student successKELLY GLUECK OPINIONS EDITOR

Emerging scholars recognized at Meramec

THE STUDENT VOICE OF ST. LOUIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE - MERAMEC



@themontage Voume 48 Issue 8 January 24, 2013www.meramecmontage.com fb.me/meramecmontage

STLCC-Meramec’s start of the fall 2012 semester was plagued by class cancellations. While the beginning of the spring semester was “an improvement,” according to Andrew Langrehr, Vice President of Academic Affairs, cancellations are still a lingering issue on campus. With more than 60 classes axed this semester, students and faculty members were left scrambling to fill course loads and re-enroll in classes.

“I think that it was an improvement over the fall. I think in the fall we had a situation where enrollment was lower than we anticipated. When we built the schedule it was based on having higher enrollment than what came in, so we had more to cut,” Langrehr said. “Coming into the spring we didn’t cut as many [classes]. I think there is a little over 1,400 sections, between 1,400 and 1,500 classes offered this spring.”

Langrehr added that fewer classes were cut on the cancellation day than we cut last semester.

“I think a little over 60 classes were withdrawn, between 60 and 70 withdrawn, which is an improvement over the fall. I think the department anticipated that enrollment was a little lower. I think that they managed it,” Langrehr said. “When I say we withdrew between 60 and 70 classes that wasn’t in the last week before classes. Probably only a third of those are withdrawn on that class cancellation day.”

English Department Chair David Taylor said the department took steps to minimize cancellations by anticipating an enrollment drop.

“What we did is we looked at the spring schedule and anticipated a decline in enrollment by about 10 percent and then we offered a fewer number of courses to match that enrollment,” Taylor said. “It wasn’t necessarily eliminating sections but the number of seats we offer.”

Langrehr said administration tried to act as advocates for students and faculty.

“The deans are advocates for students

and faculty and they try to give that class every chance to make to the best of their ability,” Langrehr said. “Sometimes that means that you hold one and it gets cancelled late and people are scrambling.”

Departments saw the turmoil caused last year and planned ahead Langrehr said.

“I think that people saw how it went in the fall and people didn’t want to have that sort of vibe again” Langrehr said. “I saw a lot less [cancellation] notices as I walked down the hall.”

Langrehr added that even though this semester was an improvement there is more to do.

“We can still improve; they’re some new department chairs and things. I think they are getting their bearings,” Langrehr said. “We still retained a significant number - I’d say more than 50 sections that have less than 15. They had good reasons.”

In addition to class cancellations, the college has also suffered a loss of 900 students this semester according to Langrehr.

“Enrollment is down,” Langrehr said. “We had a big increase in the last few years when the economy went bad. We anticipated coming back to some norm but we’d like it to be a little bit higher.”

Langrehr said administration is focusing on making the right moves when it comes to scheduling.

“It’s something we’re focused on; we’re trying to schedule classes where you could get a broad number of people to take them,” Langrehr said. “What’s bad is when you budget for x number of students and you get less than that.”

Planning ahead can have its negative and positive effects, according to Taylor.

“It was positive in the sense that we didn’t have as many cancellations as we did in the fall, negative in the sense that we didn’t feel as comfortable offering a variety of courses at the same times we did previously because we didn’t want them to be cancelled,” Taylor said.

KAVAHN MANSOURI EDITOR IN CHIEF

The disappearing act


Meramec’s classes continue to vanish


@themontage Voume 48 Issue 9 February 7, 2013www.meramecmontage.com fb.me/meramecmontage

Wake up Cameron Dobbs

Chad MottDerek Robertson

Haley KemperDeborah Dennert

Lydia Oetker

STAGE MANAGER DANIEL WILLIAMS

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR MEAGAN WALLACE

WRITTEN BY STEPHAN PEIRICK

DIRECTED BY KEITH OLIVER

Starring

Continued on page 11


@themontage Voume 48 Issue 10 February 21, 2013www.meramecmontage.com fb.me/meramecmontage

In the shadow of the recent Sandy Hook shooting, students in America must once again reassess their feelings regarding safety at school. But Meramec students need not worry according to Campus Chief of Police Paul Banta.

Banta said the officers on campus are trained for a situation involving an intruder on campus.

“We are prepared as we can be for an armed intruder,” Banta said. “We attended the A.L.I.C.E. (Alert-Lockdown-Inform-Counter-Evacuate) training which was put on by the St. Louis County S.W.A.T. team. It’s training for students and faculty on how to protect themselves in a situation where there is a intruder on campus.”

Meramec is armed with nine full time officers in the college’s employ, each trained and armed with semi-automatic weapons, tactical bulletproof vests and shields. Three officers are always on duty on-campus to ensure the safety of students and the campus is equipped with cameras, which stand constantly on guard for suspicious activity.

“We’re prepared as much as we can be prepared, but if someone is coming on this campus willing to lose their life trying to shoot other people it’s difficult to stop that from happening,” Banta said. “We’re taking all the precautions we can take.”

Vice President of Student Affairs Linden Crawford said the Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) are proactive in the pursuit to prevent incidents from occurring on campus.

“All students see a video in their classrooms which include a brief active shooter scenario, and I think from our perspective we would like to expand on that a little bit,”

Crawford said. “As far as prevention, the other thing I would say is in looking at current students or students that cause disruptions on campus. We are very active proactive with our Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) on campus.”

Banta said the campus police would be in control of an active shooter situation until they can hand the situation off to the local police department.

“If we have an active shooter on campus we will be mitigating the situation until we can turn it over to the S.W.A.T. team,” Banta said. “If somebody is here and they’re actively shooting people my men are going to go and take them out.”

Banta added the campus police prepare through training programs and drilling.

“We just did an active shooter drill with the Kirkwood Police Department and the entire police department across the district,” Banta said.

Banta said the “tools” include a pop-up alert system on all campus computers, a text alert system and several other warning systems to better divert students from danger.

“There are numerous tools in place to alert students,” Banta said. “If there is an intruder, we can quickly inform everyone on campus.”

Crawford said the schools takes counter-measures everyday to prevent a problem before it happens.

“We are actively involved in an Internet based prevention. You may submit a review anonymously if need be,” Crawford said.

Are we in

the crosshairs?

DORIAN ROBERTS STAFF WRITER



@themontage Voume 48 Issue 11 March 7, 2013www.meramecmontage.com fb.me/meramecmontage

VICTORY

Coming off of an 83-82 double overtime win against rival North Central Missouri College on Jan. 19, the STLCC Lady Archers headed into their final nine games of the regular season with an 11-5 record. They still had games against Region XVI rival Three Rivers Community College, nationally recognized Cottey College, as well as two games against Metropolitan Community College (MCC)-Penn Valley, a team they would potentially face in the playoffs.

Considering the loss of four of their top scorers over the course of the season, who averaged 40 points per game, Head Coach Shelly Ethridge and her coaching staff looked to the nine players on roster to stay on track.

“We’re going to take one game at a time, especially right now, and try to figure everything out and dealing with all the adversity we’ve been dealing with. The kids know that they have something special just with their team right now and their chemistry, and that’s what we’re focusing in on,” Ethridge said following the victory over North Central.

“We’ll let the game play out for itself. I know deep down the kids would still like to win the regional tournament and we certainly can do that. We can do it, but we’re going to approach each game one day at a time and focus in on the little things that are going to make a big difference for us,” Ethridge said.

That was then. This is now.

Lady Archers clutch Regional Championship

PHOTO BY: DAVE KLOECKNERStory continued on page 11

SPENCER GLEASON SPORTS EDITOR

2012-2013

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