Get Happy!

Feeling stressed out before Thanksgiving break because your professors assigned your four papers due at the end of the week? If so, meet Happy! Happy is like any other college student here at SCU...except he has a giant yellow head. Despite the strange looks he gets from time to time, Happy not only manages to get by, but goes through his day with flair!

Check him out and help my Sociology group do well on our assignment. Please comment, rate, subscribe, and friend us on YouTube because we would love to watch your videos too. Thanks!

Jada Marsden

Have You Seen The Ninja??

Back in Sanfillippo, several students graciously volunteered to be cast in a Sociology project composed by fellow collegereporter Keesa and I. For our sociology class, we were required to create a video, any video, that would have the potential of ultimately gaining more views than a video composed by our sociology teacher. If we succeed and gain more views than our professor, we will be guaranteed an A for our video production. With that said, help us out and watch away. Rate high, favorite our video, and share it with everyone you know. The competition ends on 12/4/09, so hurry and watch it before then. We promise its HILARIOUS! So, have you seen the ninja??

THE NINJA STORY

- Sara

Santa Clara hosts first swine flu clinic for students

When Heather Clayton heard there would be a swine flu vaccine available to Santa Clara students, she was determined to make sure she got one.

“I wanted to be prepared,” said the senior, a chronic asthma sufferer.

So Clayton arrived at the vaccination clinic on Nov. 12 at 8 a.m., a full two hours before a single dose would be injected. She was the first in line.

Sixty Santa Clara students had lined up outside the California Mission Room to receive the vaccine when the clinic officially opened at 10 a.m. Several dozen additional students were already waiting inside after filling out medical paperwork.

Senior Mary Werling lined up early just behind Clayton, but wasn’t getting vaccinated on her own accord.

“My mom is worried and therefore I am worried,” she said.

Swine flu, or H1N1 as it is officially called, sickened nearly 22 million Americans from last April through mid-October. The Centers for Disease Control estimates 4,000 have died from the virus, including 540 children.

Santa Clara’s first case of H1N1 was confirmed in (month). There have been a total of XX confirmed cases on campus since then. California has witnessed 237 confirmed cases of the virus since the government began tracking it last spring.

Quote from Cowell

Graph on regular flu shot statistics at SCU. When is flu season? Does Cowell always contract with Maxim?

“It’s trendy to get a flu shot nowadays,” said senior Ryan Lyles. Both Clayton and Lyles received a regular flu shot earlier in the year.

Approximately 300 doses of the H1N1 vaccine were administered at the clinic last week. Did they run out? Students can set up an appointment at Cowell Health Center if they still wish to receive an immunization. The vaccine is provided free by the federal government, but students must pay a $15 administration fee.

Swine Flu: Confessions of a Community Facilitator

Santa Clara University has made it a point to keep the students, faculty, and staff updated on the latest information regarding the recent H1N1 epidemic. Three weeks prior to the Fall semester, I arrived on campus for my Community Facilitator training. At Santa Clara University, a Community Facilitator is somewhat like a Resident Assistant. Because I would hold a position of student leadership in the dorms, I was instructed on Santa Clara University’s mission to fight any and all traces of the H1N1 disease.

I learned the ins and outs of the virus and was lectured extensively on the importance of cleanliness and “appropriate contact” with others (i.e. no hugs or hand-holding allowed). I watched detailed power point presentations, received several informational brochures, and even watched a couple YouTube videos, all about the H1N1 epidemic and how to avoid it. As a result of the school’s precaution, I was informed of the actions my dorm would need to take if someone possessed “H1N1-like” symptoms. As a Community Facilitator, I had the responsibility of noticing if one of my residents started having flu like symptoms and was instructed to immediately send them to Cowell Health Center to be tested for the Swine Influenza Virus.

The Residential Learning Communities (our special name for dormitories) each have designated isolation rooms that suspected Swine Flu victims must reside in until their symptoms subside. These students are required to stay in the isolation rooms and are instructed to wear facemasks if they need to leave the room for a short period of time. Because of the close living spaces in the RLCs, someone who might have the Swine Flu would need to be immediately isolated so as to not spread the virus to any other student. So far, a couple of my own residents have utilized these services. However, none of them have actually contracted the virus.

To this day, I still receive constant email updates about H1N1 and what other steps Santa Clara is taking to make sure its students can avoid the viral influenza at all costs. I know that we must all take precautions in terms of avoiding the Swine Flu and that its important for us to be informed about the effects of the virus. But sometimes I wonder, is it ever too much?

-Sara

How About Some Tunes Instead of Medication

When you catch the flu, you undoubtedly feel lethargic as well as stressed at the thought of all the school work and responsibilities you'll have to make up. During this period of physical and mental tribulation, I believe it helps to pray, relax, and listen to some soothing music. Especially in the wake of the H1N1 epidemic, it's nice to have a mix music ready to go in case we have the misfortune of contracting the virus.

Here are some pieces of music that I highly recommend for times that you just want to take it easy.

Beethoven:

Sonata #14 – First Movement (AKA Moonlight Sonata)

Chopin:

Nocturne Op.9 #1

Nocturne Op. 27 #2

Prelude Op. 28 #15 (AKA Raindrop Prelude)

Piano Concerto #1 – Second Movement

Debussy:

Clair De Lune

Reverie

Rachmaninoff:

Piano Concerto #1 – Second Movement

Piano Concerto #2 – Second Movement

Prelude Op. 23 #4

Vocalise

You may notice that all of my recommendations are from the Classical Music repertoire (or more specifically from the Classical, Romantic, and Impressionistic Periods/Styles of music). Classical music has grown to be my personal favorite genre. I like instrumental music in particular. While lyrics can be wonderful and poetic, sometimes just have melody without words can be liberating and express that which words cannot.

Here is a video of Norwegian pianist, Leif Ove Andsnes playing Debussy's Clair De Lune

Leif Ove Andsnes plays Debussy's 'Clair de Lune'

- Anton

Swine Flu: A Quarantine Experience

Name: Brad Terrill
Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona

What was your experience with the Swine Flu? "I wasn't diagnosed with Swine Flu. They didn't know know whether I had it, and they didn't do a blood test, which would say whether I had it or not."

Where were you quarantined? What were the conditions?: "I was quarantined for two full days in Nobili apartments. I couldn't leave and had to wear a mask if I left."

What was your first reaction when you heard you had to be isolated? "Ahh man... that sucks."

What was your favorite pastime? "Hulu.com" (A website that offers free television shows)

Do you have any advice? "Stay away from people who have it... it's not too bad."


Interview by Keesa

Swine Flu: are you worried? - Steps of Swine Flu

1.

http://www.shopaservice.com/articles/wp-content/uploads/symptoms_of_swine_flu.jpg

2.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_03xb8H-1CTU/SgSEN3HZGRI/AAAAAAAAAfU/owMFmPuOod8/s400/Mexican+H1N1+swine+flu+virus.JPG

3.

http://www.washtwpmorris.org/news/health/influenza/diagram.jpg

How do we know when Swine Flu attacks? Could it be the awful symptoms? Perhaps. But even then, you can’t really tell if someone, including yourself, has the H1N1 virus attacking the body. What does it look like? And what does it do to your immune system as it attacks?

Of course there are the flu symptoms including fever, runny nose, sore throat, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, coughing, lethargic activity, and a lack of appetite.

The H1N1 virus is said to include parts from swine, avian, and human flu strains. Making it harder to stop from spreading because no one has been exposed to all three before, leaving the human population with no previous resistance. (image 2)

First, The virus enters the body (image 3) and begins to attack the immune system. Then, unless your immune system can fight the virus off, you become ill, and feel the flu like symptoms because your body is trying to get rid of the virus.

If you would like to see an animation about the life of a flu virus I would recommend the animation at NPR.

If you feel you are experiencing signs of the H1N1 flu, please see a doctor, and take precautions against further spreading the disease.

Swine Flu Affects Young People More

(Photo courtesy of nydailynews)

Although medical practitioners are warning people of all ages to take precautions against swine flu, children and young adults between the ages of 5 and 24 should take preventative measures in particular. Unlike the seasonal flu which targets those over 55, swine flu has hit children, young adults, and pregnant women particularly hard. Now why is this?

One reason is because swine flu has spread like wildfire in schools. When young people are in close quarters, it's easy for the virus to disperse among friends. Another possible explanation is that over their lifetime, adults have been vaccinated more often which may point to a better immune response. There is also some indication that those born before 1957 might be protected somewhat due to exposure to an older version of swine flu.

Regardless of why swine flu has targeted young people, please take proper precautions to prevent the virus from spreading. For more information on who is at high risk, visit Daniel J. DeNoon's piece on MedicineNet.

Swine Flu: are you worried?

Name: Matt Saydah

Are you worried about swine flu? No

What precautions are you taking? "Well my favorite is the batwing: coughing into my elbow. After rugby practice, I usually change into dry, warm clothes so I don't walk around when I'm all sweaty. I'm using more hand sanitizer and I got a flu shot earlier this year. If you're somewhat cautious and don't go out to parties when you're sick, I think you'll be fine."


Name: Brigette Heitman

Are you worried about swine flu? No

What precautions are you taking? "I've used more hand sanitizer this year than I've ever used in my entire life. I've always been good about washing my hands. My roommate never covers her mouth when she coughs or sneezes. That's pretty gross. I got a flu shot already because my mom was nagging me to."

-CEW

Swine Flu: Are you worried?

______________________________________________________________


Name: Allie Lopiano (SCU Sophomore)

Are you worried?: No

What is your opinion about how people are dealing with this issue?: I think it's ridiculous that people are freaking out about H1N1 which is basically a regular flu. I understand people's concern if for they have a pre-existing medical condition that makes them more vulnerable to sickness, but other than that, people are worrying too much.

-Anton

Swine Flu: Are you worried?

Name: Taylor Womack

Hometown: San Mateo, CA

Are you worried about getting the Swine Flu? "No. I'm just not worried about it and I don't get sick very often. I don't feel like the Swine Flu is as big a deal as everyone makes it out to be."

What precautions have you taken against the Swine Flu? "I wash my hands more frequently but that's about it. I haven't taken any vaccinations for it. I haven't even taken the seasonal flu shot."

Sara

Swine Flu: Are You Worried?

Name: Marcel Juarez-Garza
Hometown: San Juan Bautista, California

Are you worried about getting the swine flu? "No because I got it over the summer."

What was your experience with this particular influenza? "I would wake up and I felt like I hit a train. I had diarrhea, and I would have hallucinogenic dreams and an extremely high temperature (105-107 degrees Fahrenheit)."

Did you seek out medical professionals? "My doctors would not tell me what I had. They said it was a severe strain of the flu. I asked them if it was swine flu, and they didn't know, but the swine flu symptoms were there, and I had to stay home and not go to work."

What do you think are the symptoms of the swine flu? "High fever, diarrhea, upset stomach, irritability, lost of appetite, coughing and sore throat"

Are you afraid of any of the symptoms appearing again? "No because my system is immune to it... I hope."


Interview by Keesa

Swine Flu: Are You Worred?

Name: Peggy Kelly
Hometown: Santa Clara, CA
Are you worried about getting the Swine Flu? "Well, the Swine Flu hasn't really affected any of my friends or family but it does worry me because it's out there and that a lot of people are being affected by it and that schools are shutting down because of it. So yeah, I would say I'm worried about it."
What do you think are the symptoms of Swine Flu? "I heard they are much like the regular flu, except a little bit more severe."
Have you taken any precautions against Swine Flu? "I took the flu shot."

- Samantha

Swine Flu: Are You Worried?

Name: Sarah Mirto

Hometown: Pleasanton, CA
Are you worried about getting the Swine Flu?
"I'm not that worried because I haven't heard of too many people having it. I think it's mostly just people getting the flu and then Cowell getting kind of scared because they want to be cautious but I don't think it's that big of a worry."
Have you taken any precautions against Swine Flu?
"I was supposed to go get the flu shot but I don't even know if that helps. And if anyone was told to be quarantined, [I would] obviously just stay away from them."

Santa Clara vs. Gonzaga Volleyball Game

On Saturday, October 17, I attended the Santa Clara Volleyball Game against Gonzaga. Sadly, Santa Clara lost the match after their lead in the beginning. Santa Clara won the first two sets, but lost the next two, causing them to go into a tie breaker set. Santa Clara lost the tie breaker, giving the match to Gonzaga. Although I took pictures at many volleyball games in high school, this was my first time taking volleyball pictures at Santa Clara, and I must admit it was pretty successful. The game speed was faster than high school games, in terms of ball speed, which I feel helped me get better photos. I could feel the adrenaline from the players while I was sitting on the sidelines, which helped me keep up with their speed. Here are three of my favorite photos from the day.

Samantha

Webcomics: The Best of the Best

(Photo courtesy of survivingtheworld)

Have you ever read a webcomic? Odds are you have at least heard of them. According to webcomics editor T. Campbell, American middle-class college students make up a large portion of the webcomic reader community. If you haven't read a webcomic, that's okay too. Whether you are looking to get into the world of webcomics or if you are an old-time reader, check out these Jada-approved comics:

• Questionable Content by Jeph Jacques -- This was the first webcomic I ever read. Contrary to its title, the comic is pretty SFW (Safe For Work). While I don't read it anymore, the story lines are always intriguing and the artistry is impeccable. If you start from the beginning, seeing his style slowly transition into his current sophisticated design is fascinating. The website is updated every weekday so for those of you who constantly press Refresh to see if a site has new content, this is the webcomic for you.
• Acid Zen Wonder Paint by Stephen Heintz -- His stick figures say it all. There's no plot, there are no characters, just funny lines and expressions from the mouths of stick figures. His commentary is usually unrelated but just as funny, if not more so at times. He rarely updates anymore so I suggest going through the archives if you are looking for a good laugh.
• The Perry Bible Fellowship by Nicholas Gurewitch -- Gurwitch's artistic range is incredible with every comic in a different but distinctive style. Some strips contain slight nudity so it's probably NSFW (Not Safe For Work) or class. He doesn't update very much but he has a substantial list of old strips to peruse.
• White Ninja by Scott Evan and Kent Earle -- White Ninja is a cute, naive guy wearing a ninja costume. Most of the strips end in non sequiturs so if you enjoy random comedy, this might be the webcomic for you.
• Saturday Morning Breakfast Cereal by Zach Weiner -- This might be my favorite webcomic. It's usually just one scene with funny, contradicting text below but occasionally he will employ a standard four-box comic model. Characters are not reoccurring and there is no plot. Warning: advertisements on the sidebar can be graphic. Refresh if you see anything that bothers you.
• Surviving the World by Dante Shepherd -- I am not 100% sure if this qualifies as a webcomic since it isn't drawn but it is funny nonetheless. The author, who has a Masters in Philosophy, uses each strip to teach his readers a daily life lesson. This comic's target audience is college students so I'm sure you'll get a kick out of it.
  

I hope this helped open the doors to the realm of webcomics. There are so many different styles that you can pick one that suits your humor and aesthetics pretty easily. If none of the preceding ones intrigue you, my friends and family recommend xkcd, Dinosaur Comics, and Cyanide and Happiness. Read away!

Jada

Things I Miss From Home

All college students miss something from home...whether it be their living room couch or their mom's cooking. I asked a couple of my friends to share what they missed the most from home and this is what they said.

Artistry At the Piano

On Saturday, October 3, Professor Hans Boepple performed in a solo recital here at SCU. In a word, it was AWESOME! His technique was fluid, and virtually effortless while his style was elegant, and smooth, with a pleasant romanticism tempered by years of experience at the keyboard.

Starting with a Beethoven sonata, Professor Boepple captured the composer’s emotional honesty, sense of drama, exciting shifts in dynamics and characteristic rhythmic drive. Next, he played a rather atonal and difficult to grasp sonata by Barber. It was interesting, because amidst the seemingly incoherent sequence of dissonant notes, one could detect a sort of hidden melodic line. After the intermission, the Professor played a wonderful rendition of Chopin’s Barcarolle (I particularly appreciate his moderate use of rubato which created a sense of spontaneity while still maintaining the piece's architectural solidity) and then he concluded with a set of pieces by Liszt which showcased both the composer’s and the performer’s impeccable pianistic abilities. After hitting the final chord, the audience applauded thunderously and received a total of three encores from Professor Boepple. The first two were Etudes from Chopin’s opus 25 set. The last piece of the night was an intermezzo by Brahms which the Professor dedicated in memory of his late Mother-in-law (and his dedication is an outward sign of his benevolence since typically most people don't seem to demonstrate such fondness for their mothers-in-law). In the future, I (as well as many others I am sure) look forward to hearing more from SCU's very own Professor Boepple.

- Anton

SCU's Salsa Clara: 1st Club Meeting

(Poster for SCU's Salsa Clara's 1st Meeting of the 2009-2010 year)

Last week Wednesday was Salsa Clara's 1st meeting
of the 2000-2010 year.

At the club meeting, our choreographer taught us the salsa basic, a right outside turn, and a simple dip. It was really exciting to see so many enthusiastic people, especially ones who never danced salsa before. As I watched people dance for the first time, it made me realize how much I have learned in one year.

I can't wait for what's to come this year.

Peace,
Keesa

Water Polo

I decided to take some pictures at the Water Polo Alumni Game Saturday, October 10. The game was between current Santa Clara Water Polo Players and alumni that played Water Polo for Santa Clara. The next home game will be the two-day Rodeo Tournament, Saturday and Sunday, October 24-25.

Samantha Juda

Santa Clara University in Photos

When asked what I like best about going to Santa Clara University, I usually mention the amazing weather, small class sizes, and approachable staff; never do I forget to detail how stunning the campus is with its statuesque palm trees, elegant floral overhangs, and freshly cut grass.

One lazy weekend last November, I embarked on a campus-wide adventure to photograph the beauty of our school. This experience helped me grasp how lucky we are to be here at SCU and it gave way to more exciting photo adventures throughout the year. Here are a few of my favorites.



For more photos, click here to go to my photoblog.

Jada

Freshman Life

Freshmen sleep whenever they can. (Photo courtesy of edublogs)

Thoughts on being a freshman...

1. People overload.
2. Abundance of free time. But it's not free time. You should be studying, but you don't have to study. Who studies at 9:15 in the morning.
3. No car. You can spend large amounts of time on campus. Endless hours. On campus.
4. Or you take the bus.
5. The transition from a know-it-all high-school senior to being lost.
6. Cafeteria food. Burritos every night.

Meet the Bloggers

It's a new academic year at Santa Clara University and time to meet the new College Reporters team for the fall of 2009. (Left to Right) Sara, Jada, Sam, Amy and Anton.

Flippin' Head Over Heels

Cara Uy

What Would You Change?

Michelle Chun-Hoon

How Many Sugar Cubes in Your Drink?

We used to depend only on water, but as times have changed we have been given more options. Now we can choose from a can of soda or a glass of juice, a smoothie or a cup of coffee. Rarely do we read the labels on that can of soda or realize how much sugar is in that juice glass we get from Benson. Well, here is something that will have you thinking twice about what drink you order next.

Michelle Chun-Hoon

Man's Best Friend

Even on our worst days we can always count on our animal friends to be there for us. I was on twitter this morning when I came across this inspriring story of a woman and her dog. It made me question how much people would do for their pets. I can say, along with many other animal lovers, that I would anything for my dog.

Michelle Chun-Hoon

Never Too Old for the Pox

A few weeks ago I broke out into a rash. I thought it was due to the unsanitary living conditions of college and having 7 housemates. Little did I know....I had the chicken pox. It came as a surprise to me and pretty much everyone else. Although you think you will never need this, I am going to give you a few tips on how I survived:
1. DON'T scratch! As much as you want to scratching just leads to pain and scars.
2. Go to a dermatologist instead of a regular doctor because they make sure to give you creams that prevent scarring.
3. Oatmeal baths. Helps to relax and relieve itching.
4. Ask the doc for something to help you sleep, otherwise it is impossible.
5. Find a puppy. I thankfully got to go home during this and my parents had just gotten a puppy and he made everything better.


Alex Z.

An Earthy Celebration

The SCU Earth Day festivities made the world go round thanks to the tie-die, painting, free give-aways, rock climbing, and peace chains. Happy (belated) Earth Day!




Cara Uy

Spring Flowers

Iron Bronco

The Iron Bronco Triathlon began today and will continue until May 10th. Hosted by the Malley Center participants are to run 26.2 miles, bike 112 miles and swim 2.4 miles within the two week period. In the year 2007 246 out of the 342 participants completed the triathlon. So if you are up for the challenge sign up with a few friends or individually. It costs five dollars and you receive an Iron Bronco t-shirt if you successfully complete all the mileage. 

Michelle Chun-Hoon

Happy Birthday, Earth.

So it's Earth Day, and though our school is not celebrating this day until next week, I still wanted to commemorate it. I think every day should be Earth Day. It is our home, for goodness sake. I think the video below, which is my all-time favorite environmental ad, sums up the beauty of life and the earth. It presents Earth's natural resources in a creative way and its important connection to our lives. I'll stop blabbering, but really, watch it. It'll make you smile...



Cara Uy

Island in the Sun

We truly live on our own little Santa Clara island and we have the palm trees to prove it. Do you ever wonder how many pretty pennies it costs to purchase and plant one of them? I sure do. I've heard 2 rumors regarding the palm trees. 1. It cost $10,000 to insure one palm tree. 2. We were given our first palm trees from University of Southern California to change our initials from U.S.C. to S.C.U.

I have no idea if either one is true. What I do know is that we are spoiled by the beautiful upkeep of our campus. With the wonderful spring weather we're having, this is the best time to stop looking out the window and enjoy our island, especially if the palms cost $10,000 each.

Cara Uy

Photo Credit: http://www.scu.edu/ugrad/location/images/nobili-mission-gardens-lg.jpg

Leaves of Paper

Sustainability on campus has been a vital and growing trend. People do think it is important to care and respect the earth. However, behavior shows otherwise. Though we like trees and their pretty green leaves, we sometimes don't think twice about printing 20+ pages double-sided and remembering to recycle the papers after we're done. Here's an account of the lingering unsustainability on campus:



Cara Uy
Michelle Chun-Hoon

Nutty Squirrel Facts

You have seen more than one while strolling to class, they live on campus, but don't pay tuition. Who are they you ask? The squirrels of course! Hiding among the trees and eating leftover Benson meals they share the beautiful Santa Clara atmosphere with us. I am afraid we don't know much about them though and since they can't introduce themselves take the time to check out some nutty facts.

Michelle Chun-Hoon

Random Acts of Sustainability

Happy Trails to You

Spring is a great time to enjoy the outdoors and with the nice weather we've been having there is no excuse to stay locked up in the dorms. Besides swimming, jogging and tanning right here at Santa Clara there are plenty of outdoor places to visit off campus. I recently went hiking at Mission Peak, which was gorgeous, a great source of exercise, and I even got a nice tan line. Within about a 30 minute drive off campus you can reach a numerous amount of hiking trails. I have also been to Alameda County Park more than once and it has several trails offering different lengths. So, if you want to get in shape, enjoy nature or just get a tan hiking may be a great activity for you. Another plus side to enjoying the outdoors is — it costs nothing! And if you're anything like me you will be looking for ways to keep money in your wallet.

Michelle Chun-Hoon

Squid Row

Here is a video of baby squid being born. It is oddly inspirational.

Omaha

Nebraska is the happiest state in the country. I'm not sure by the depictions in this video.

Hoppy Easter

What are your Easter traditions? Tomorrow I am heading back to my hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, where hopefully we will have our annual Easter egg hunt in my backyard. Over the years, the hunt has grown increasingly competitive, then not so competitive, then competitive once again. There's egg snatching, basket throwing, and you may even have to look out for a basket being swung at your head. The eggs are cleverly hidden throughout my yard- something both my mother and father take great pride in- and usually there's over 100. Last year I won. There's money in the good ones...

What will happen this year?

Stay tuned.

Hopefully it's not too muddy and dreary in Omaha. It snowed last weekend. How odd.

Spring Break

Those two words, SPRING BREAK, can only mean three things for the typical college student: sleep, sun, and alcohol (and lots of it). While I may be generalizing or stereotyping, it seemed like most students were headed south, toward the equator, and to areas where alcohol could be accessible. Nevertheless, an island-in-the-sun location was not the destination on everybody's plane ticket. For some, alcohol was not on the agenda, and neither was sun or much sleep. Whereas some may have gone home to catch up on some Zzz's, others were all about maximizing their leisure time in the most productive and beneficial way possible.


Name: Miriam Rodriguez, 2011
For your college spring break, why did you choose someplace other than a typical beach location?
Mostly I wanted to spend my spring break showing my closest friends my part of the country. Living on the east coast, I know that I could show all of my friends something different than what they are used to, considering that living in Philadelphia, I'm only two hours away from most of the historical landmarks of our country. Being able to share my life outside of college with my friends was very exciting and better than any beach location. This is also because I hardly drink; so for me, the typical spring break would not be any fun.

Tired of Benson food?

It is Spring Quarter now and we have all had our share of Benson meals. You don't have to spend a whole lot of money eating at restaurants though. Why not prepare a meal yourself? Don't jump to conclusions and think that making your own meal will be too much work- it can be simple, cheap and fun! For one thing, Safeway is just across the street from our campus; full of ingredients just waiting to be made into something delicious! Also, the resident buildings offer kitchen workspace along with pots, pans and other cooking materials you can check out. All you need is some pasta, tomato sauce and some veggies for a healthy and filling meal. There are endless amounts of recipes and ideas out there available at the click of a mouse. Websites such as allrecipes or tastespotting offer recipes from lasagna, pizza and brownies to egg rolls, pad thai and crem brulee. You don't have to drain your points at Benson or clean out your wallet, just grab some friends and make your own gourmet meal!

Here are a few students who share their experiences outside of Benson and in the kitchen...

Name and year: Mateus Moitinho de Almeida, 2010

On those days you don't want Benson food, what is your favorite meal to make?

When I don't want to eat at Benson, I try to cook something that isn't too expensive, but is also worth the time to make. My home-cooked meals usually consisted of rice dishes, so that is what I would go for. I like to make anything from sushi to asian curries. The beauty of this is that a bag of rice is cheap and will last you a long time, and your dishes don't always have to be fancy. But now and again, it's a nice change to have something special.

Name and year: Justine Macauley, 2010

On those days you don't want Benson food, what is your favorite meal to make?

I love making eggs because they are so easy and I don't get to have them very often. I also make Annie's pasta from Cellar Market a lot, and Easy Mac when I'm being very lazy.

Life in the economic downturn

Name: Richard Nieva
Hometown: Hayward, CA
How has the economic downturn affected you? It's definitely affected how I look at my future in a couple of months. It's making me more worried about how I'm gonna pay for my cost-of-living and what kind of job I'm gonna get and whether that's gonna dictate whether I'm looking for a career or just something to pay the bills.

Life in the Downturn

Name: Kevin Creighton
Hometown: Rochester, NY
How has the economic downturn affected you?: The economic crisis has been difficult for my family but not nearly as severe as it has others. My parents both work and one has had to take a pay cut but because I am an only child it is easier for them to accept reality without facing financial disaster. I know people who have been crushed by it and this whole experience is humbling.

Life in the Downturn

Name: Bruce Brown
Hometown: Birmingham, AL
How has the economic downturn affected you? The economy has caused my family to be very cautious with our finances. You see my dad is really highly educated, he is a phD. This puts him in danger because high education= high salary. When companies are cost cutting due to this economy, he is likely one of the first to go because of how much he makes. In addition, his degree is so specialized, that if he loses his job, it is really hard to find another job of equal status for him.

Note: This individual asked that I not show a picture.

Life in the Downturn

Name: Pat Welde
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
How has the economic downtrun affected you? I am very fortunate in the sense that the current state of the economy hasn't had an immediate impact on my family. However, a lot of my friend's parents have lost their jobs, so that has impacted me.

Life in the Downturn

Name: Andy Pantoja
Hometown: Salinas, CA
How has the economic downturn affected you? The current state of the economy sucks. It has caused my family to cut down our budget. It also has caused me to apply for more scholarships and grants.

Life in the Downturn

Name: Carla Espinoza
Hometown: Chicago
How has the economic downturn affected you?: My mom has a pretty stable job as a grammar school teacher so we have been making ends meet for a while, regardless of the economy. However, the current crisis has caused uneasiness for my two older sisters who are out of college and looking for jobs. They are both seeking opportunities in the competitive media world. It is hard to see them struggle but they should be able to overcome. I am hoping the economy will change by the time I graduate but I am preparing myself for the worst.

Life in the Downturn

Name: Guillermo Portillo

Hometown: San Jose, CA

How has the economic downturn affected you: I'm not sure exactly to what extent the economic crisis has affected me. I've asked my parents how they are doing financially, and they continue to tell me that things are rough right now, but the conversation always ends there. Our situation has never been the best, so it worries me not knowing how much the crisis is affecting us. Other than that, it hasn't had a great effect on my day-to-day life, although there is more pressure to find a job and begin saving money for the near future. I've been more conscious about how I spend money and I've had to think ahead more than I normally would. Mostly I feel that there is something hanging over my head, and it's not a good feeling to have at all.

Life in the Downturn

Name: Meredith Watkins

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

How has the economic downturn affected you: I'm really lucky in that it hasn't personally affected me too much because my family has been lucky and is still in a stable financial situation. But, it has made me concerned about finding a job after graduation. Realizing that I will have to try to find work in this economy is daunting. 

No money, but no more school either

Name: Cecile Nguyen
Hometown: San Jose, Calif.
Graduation date: June 2009
Effect of the economic downturn: It made me a little more nervous about once I graduate. I know there won't be as good a job market as I'd want there to be. A lot of my friends are going into grad school to get away from this and I'm thinking that's not a bad idea. I don't know if I can handle school for two more years. I stopped school last year.

Life in the Downturn

Name: Jessica Rice

Hometown: Woodinville, Washington

How has the economic downturn affected you: I've started trying to buy gas only once a month and I go out of my way to Costco, where it's 20 cents cheaper. I've also become more aware of my electricity and water use habits. For example, I turn off the shower when I shave my legs. I've also decided to go to grad school after college, instead of trying to find a job right away. The current economic crisis is an incentive to bring to all of our minds the necessity of being cognizant of what we spend, not only financially but also in the price tag at the expense of Mother Earth. 

Life in the Downturn

Name: Stephanie Wessels

Hometown: Los Gatos, CA

How has the economic downturn affected you: I'm now more conscious of how I'm spending money, as well as how I'm saving it. But I'm not sure if this is a direct effect of the economy or simply because this is the first time that I am living by myself, away from the Santa Clara campus. 

Why Graduate?

When I talk to older students on the verge of graduation from college, or even those who have recently graduated, it seems the only advice I get from these people are to stay in school as long as possible. The real world sucks, and given the current state of the economy, there is no hurry to be looking for a professional job. So it gets me thinking, why try and push through all these classes in four years just to get screwed in the real world. I have seriously thought spending an extra year or so in college, that is until I look at the type of debt I would be left with.

On average, students will be graduating with an average of $20,000 in debt, which will ultimately establish that oh so important "credit history".

As a student at Santa Clara University, where tuition alone costs about $45,000, debt is something that I am going to have live with. So much for the dream of staying safe in college for an additional year.

Student Debt Today

Not only to current college students have to deal with finding a job in the crashed economy but also, student bear the burden of paying of student debt.

The Seattle Times recently featured a piece revealing the financial stress among students and lenders in these tough economic times. According to the article, while a large number of student loan lenders have completely stopped handing out loans, the firms that continue to distribute loans have become highly selective in picking students, according to Sally Mae, one of the nations largest student loan lender. Even the federally backed loans are becoming harder to get in this economy.

Both student's and the jobs of lenders are feeling the pressure in this economy, hopefully a new bailout plan will promote lenders enough to once again support students in pursing their education.

If you too are feeling the burden of paying off student loans visit this website which features helpful tips.

In Student Loan Debt? Write a Couple Best Selling Books

Mary is currently a junior at Santa Clara University and majoring in Religious Studies. When asked about student debt she quickly responds with an, "Oh yeah."

When pressed about how much she actually was in debt and how much she expected to be in debt at graduation, she suggests that it is definitely a moderate amount but wasn't up for revealing just how much.

She also feels that the United States could do more for students that seek to further their education. She remembers how President-Elect Obama said that helping out through community service could land you up to $4,000 towards an education. Now that he is President, Mary hopes Obama will make good on his promise and sooner rather than later seeing as she has only a year and a half left until graduation.

In 2008, Michelle Obama told the Associated Press that Barack Obama's book sales paid both of their student loans.

Luckily for students, the Obamas say, "We are not so far away from life that we don't understand and get it."
The payments on President Obama's student loan debt were more than their monthly mortgage.

Unfortunately for Mary and other students, writing two best selling books to pay off their debt isn't the easiest thing to do.

But!

There might still be some hope, the recent stimulus plan includes billions for colleges and students.

Colleges Are Supposed to Help Students Right?

It is no secret that with the growing financial woes of the nation, college students are taking a huge hit with debt and student loans. If you have been to a college sporting event recently, you may have noticed a bank or credit card company offering free merchandise at a table or tent. The merchandise is usually a t-shirt or mug with your favorite team's logo on it. As we all know, nothing comes for free though. These marketing ploys are trying to get students to sign up for credit cards.
Obviously credit card debt is the last thing a college student needs on top of loans. You may find it an evil ploy of credit card companies, but hold on. Maybe there is more than one source of this injustice. As it turns out many universities hold contracts with these credit card companies. In most cases, the more students that sign up for a credit card, the more money the university receives. In some cases, the school receives more money if the student carries a balance on these cards. So not only do schools allow these credit card companies permission to advertise on campus, but schools themselves often push students to get credit cards as well. I thought universities were supposed to educate their students, not double cross them. But I guess we can't forget, it's not personal, it's just business.
Be warned next time you are at a college sporting event and see advertising for free merchandise. Remember that nothing is free, especially in this economy.


Kenny Curry

My Deepest Thoughts on Debt

To be honest, debt scares me. I am very fortunate to be in a situation where my parents are paying for my college education, but I plan to go to some form of graduate school. I am thinking about applying to Santa Clara's law school. With higher education comes higher levels of debt. And with the economy the way it is, I am honestly nervous that I am going to be paying six figures until I am six feet under!

I think about the high amount of debt that I am destined to have to pay, and then I also realize that I will need to buy a car sometime, pay rent, buy food, support a social life so I don't go crazy, etc, all while paying off student loans. But, it is a part of life I suppose.

It is very helpful to remind myself of a few things though. Although I will have to pay back a large amount of money, taking out these loans guarantees opportunities that will open many doors for me in the future. I will learn many new things, meet new people, go new places, and have new, crazy thoughts. The loans may be a lot of money, but missing out on these opportunities would be a tragedy.

Debt in College

Students on average have from 12,000 to 16,000 dollars in debt when they graduate from college. An article on Nextstudent.com gives a way to avoid college debt through preparation. The idea is to set one's self situation up in a way that you will not have to deal with any debt by taking the necessary precautions such as taking advanced placement classes, applying for scholarships, concentrating on getting good grades and staying involved. Even though one can do all of these things, it doesn't ensure that one will not have debt. I think that debt and college just go and hand these days, unless you have enough money to afford to pay full tuition. I say everyone should go to college and not let debt stand in the way of the experience and opportunity that going to college will provide.

Freeing Yourself from Student Debt

Students are graduating with thousands of dollars in debt. There are many different views on student loans. Some students will not take any loans at all and some will utilize over $100,000 to go to their dream school. Debt is a pandemic among students. Debt can damper the excitement of graduation and create fear about an uncertain financial future. Jean Chatzky, a financial editor for 'Today', gives a few simple tips on handling student debt.

1. Consolidate
2. Consider Your Potential
3. Prioritize
4. Don't Delay Life

For a more detailed account of Chatzky's debt solutions check out the article at msnbc on student debt.

My Thoughts on Debt

As a junior at Santa Clara University, debt is a common worry among many students. With tuition as $45,000 each year, many families are forced to take out loans in order to pay for their children’s education. I have several friends who have to pay for their own college education, which leaves them in debt for many years after graduation. Luckily, I do not have to worry about the struggles to afford my college education. Although it is very expensive to afford SCU, my Aunt left a college fund for all of her nieces and nephews after she died. Luckily, all of my college is paid for and I will not have to get a job any time soon, so I can focus on volleyball and my classes.

In this economy, college graduates in debt are struggling. Many companies have had hiring freezes or are laying young employees off in order to save money. These graduates are struggling to pay off their student loans that they took out to pay for college because getting a well paying job is difficult with our economic crisis in America. According to an article “Out of the Hole of College Debt”, Undergraduate students leave school with an average of $20,000 in debt, and average graduate borrowers owe $45,000. Even before the recent credit crisis, worrying began over the rising number of student loans, which now top 5 million.

In February of 2007, the House of Representatives passed the College Opportunity and Affordability Act. This Act is an opportunity for $2,000 of loan forgiveness per year. With today's college tuition, $2,000 isn't going to get anyone through a year of college, but it is a first step to alleviate the debt crisis that young students face.

Unfortunately, I am forced to start thinking about my future at a young age. I have reconsidered graduate school because of how expensive it is, and I have started applying for summer internships. I figure if I work at a company in college, maybe they will secure me a job once I graduate and I will not have to worry about being jobless with a crappy economy. Although my college tuition is paid for, I constantly feel the need to save as much money as possible by changing my lifestyle drastically. I can no longer spend money in frivolous things, but have to focus on saving for my future so I can have the luxury to go back to school and continue my education.

One of the Lucky Ones

As of right now I am one of the lucky few students who seems to be out of debt. My parents have been paying for my college tuition thus far, although with the recent stock market plunge, I am not sure what the future will hold. I am planning on continuing to apply for scholarships and hope that the economy can right itself before I am out there looking for a job.

If I do end up acquiring some debt before I finish my schooling, I would not at all be surprised. My parents have been saving money since I was born, and I am receiving a small portion of academic scholarship from the school, but Santa Clara still costs $45,000 a year. I am trying to work a little bit when I can in order to pay for my own basic things outside of school, like laundry, food, social activities. I don't have a car at school and probably won't bring one down next year either to save money on gas and insurance.

Also If i end up getting debt, I would probably be screwed, because I have no idea what I want to do, but as of now I'm very involved in journalism and there is no money there. I was really good at math and science in high school, I might have made a mistake!

Here's an article from USA Today about college students in debt.

*'Students suffocate under tens of thousands in loans'