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(04/18/11 10:00pm)
On Tuesday, April 26 to Sunday, May 15, 2011, Samantha Jackson's art exhibit for her Master's thesis, entitled Henshin Kimono: Merging Traditional Kimono Styles With Modern Times, will be on display at the Nancy Dryfoos Art Gallery located at the Nancy Thompson Library of Kean University. The opening reception will take place on Thursday, April 28, 2011, at 4 p.m.
(04/11/11 10:00pm)
On April 11, 13, and 14, of 2011, Susanna Rich, an English professor at Kean University, will be performing Ashes, Ashes: A Poet Responds to the Holocaust. The performance is directed by Ernest Wiggins, a theatre professor also at Kean. In a series of poems, Rich identifies with those who suffered through the Holocaust and sculpts her poems to speak from their points of view. This show will give students a whole new experience of what poetry is and what it can do for its listeners.
(03/28/11 10:00pm)
y the middle of the semester things tend to start getting a tad bit tougher. The work load is piling on and sometimes it is very difficult to keep track of so many things due in an impossibly close time frame. At times, students can feel like their grades are slipping. However to keep on top of school work and keep grades up, students can go for tutoring. The Kean University Tutor and Learning Support Center is located in the Maxine and Jack Lane Center for Academic Success (CAS) in room 124.
(03/07/11 11:00pm)
All undergraduate students need to obtain academic advisement before their registration occurs. Every student has a faculty advisor to help with course decisions. To find out what advisor is assigned, a student just needs to log on to KeanWISE. If a student does not get advised, a hold will be placed on their account until advisement has been done. All students in EEO, EPIC, Passport, and Spanish-Speaking programs at Kean University will have another hold on their account. They must contact their program to have the hold taken off their account. If a student needs some sort of approval to be in a certain program or class, he or she needs to contact the respective department to receive a Granted Petition to take the course. Students who are registering for an independent study must contact their department as well to gain permission to take that type of course. In order for one to register for a closed class, the student, again, needs to contact the department to get rules on how to overload the class. To register for more then 18 credits, students need to send a petition to the Dean of that department.
For more information about registration, please visit www.kean.edu/KU/Registration-Information.
For all students and semesters, the system is unavailable on April 9, 2011, April 16, 2011, April 26, 2011, May 6-19, 2011, May 30, 2011, June 4, 2011, June 9, 2011, June 20-27, 2011, June 29, 2011, July 14, 2011, July 21, 2011, July 28,2011, July 29, 2011 and August 9-16, 2011.
For Summer 2011 and Fall 2011: Eligible scholars (3.85 GPA). Students with a disability that require additional services must be on file with Counseling & Disability Services, Downs Hall Room 127 in order to be eligible for registration on March 22, 2011. Undergraduate Non-Matriculated Students August 26, 2011. Late Registration September 1-7, 2011. Space Available/Senior Citizens/ State of NJ-Tuition Benefit for Unemployed Person September 7, 2011
SUMMER & FALL 2011
Registration System Availability
Matriculated Students in good academic standing who have completed courses at Kean within the past academic year (Fall 2010 - Spring 2011).
Scholars*, Athletes, Students with a disability** Tuesday, March 22, 2011
100 credits and above & Freshmen M-Z Wednesday, March 23, 2011
90 credits and above & Freshman A-L Thursday, March 24, 2011
79 credits and above Friday, March 25, 2011
69 credits and above Monday, March 28, 2011
56 credits and above Tuesday, March 29, 2011
51 credits and above Wednesday, March 30, 2011
44 credits and above Thursday, March 31, 2011
35 credits and above Friday, April 1, 2011
29 credits and above Monday, April 4, 2011
0 credits and above April 5, 2011
All students April 6-September 1, 2011
Graduate matriculated students in Master's programs, graduate Certification and Non-Degree students who have been in attendance within the last six years are eligible for registration. Students who have not been in attendance within the last six years must see the Graduate Office for readmission.
Graduate Continuing Students March 22- Sept. 7, 2011
Newly Admitted Graduate Students March 29- Sept. 7, 2011
Graduate Non-Matriculated Students
Summer I & II May 3- May 16, 2011
Fall 2011 May 3- September, 2011
Readmitted Students (Fall 2011) May 3, 2011- Sept. 7, 2011
Late Registration
Summer I 2011 May 16, 2011
Summer II 2011 June 27, 2011
Fall 2011 September 1-7, 2011
Post- Baccalaureate Certification and PBM Students in good academic standing who have attended with in the past academic year (Spring 2010-Fall 2010). Students who have not attended in the last academic year must see the Certification Office for readmission.
Graduate Continuing Students March 22- September 7, 2011
Newly Admitted Graduate Students March 29- Sept. 7, 2011
Graduate Non-Matriculated Students
Summer I & II May 3- May 16, 2011
Fall 2011 May 3- September 7, 2011
Readmitted Students (Fall 2011) May 3, 2011- Sept 7, 2011
Late Registration
Summer I 2011 May 16, 2011
Summer II 2011 June 27, 2011
Fall 2011 September 1-7, 2011
(02/28/11 11:00pm)
Professor Morton Rich is a fresh, new face teaching at Kean University. He has spent fifty years teaching. After retiring from Montclair State University in 2002, he decided to come out of retirement and work as an adjunct professor at Kean University in the Fall semester of 2010. Teaching is "the best possible life", according to Rich. It is no surprise that he read all the time as a child. He was rarely out on the street with the other kids. Professor Rich obtained his Bachelor's degree in English at Cornell University and his M.A. in English education at Rutgers University. Then, Rich went on to earn his Doctorate in English education at New York University. He worked as a magazine editor for a year, but became "disenchanted" with that career. He then went to law school for a year. Rich says, "[I] found my way home" after realizing what he wanted to do: teach.
At Kean University, Rich teaches in the English department. This Spring 2011 semester he teaches one course - ENG 3001: Critical Approaches to Literature. Professor Rich is a very student oriented teacher. He says the educational process that students go through to learn is more important than the subject. He wants students to question and explore, as well as use critical thinking. "Learn to ask the questions that yield useful answers and that lead to more questions," Rich says.
Professor Rich's favorite meal is quinoa with vegetables. His favorite place in the world is his house. Inside his house, he has a portrait studio with tripods and proper lights. Why? Because Rich's number one major hobby is photography. "[I have worked with photography] all my life without any interruptions," he says.
Rich has made some amazing accomplishments in his life. He has also achieved the Woodrow Wilson Fellowship in creative writing in Princeton, NJ, during June 1989. He also attends many poetry readings off-campus since 1989. Rich has several publications and is currently working on children's stories in an upcoming work, Yiddish & Zeyde: A life Imagined.
If he could teach any course that he wanted, it would be one "that uses literature, plastic arts, visual arts, architecture, music, interior design, horticulture, and animals to the enrichment of an individual's life." Rich wants to create something that is an extension of [a student's] human feelings. He says that it would be outside the normal curriculum. Professor Rich wants students to be in a constant state of wonder and also follows that statement in his life.
(02/07/11 11:00pm)
It is cold, wet and snowing - the usual for the month of February. Some people are content with the weather, others just want to stay inside, hibernate, and wait for spring to come. Students have to trek across crystallized pathways to get to class and wait in the cold, lashing wind for trolleys to make their ways to class. By the time they get there, they just want to relax. The winter season is well known to be the cause of notorious sluggish behavior that seems to plague most students. Not anymore; this season, get active by going to the gym. Even if a student is on East Campus, it is time get up and work out. Although Kean University has a gymnasium over on main campus with a pool and an assortment of other utilities, students should know that a new gymnasium is over at East Campus. The elusive East Campus Recreational Sports Gym is located by the classrooms "152 - 157" sign on the first floor. Just open the double doors exit and go up the staircase. Students will not miss it!
(01/31/11 11:00pm)
Roselena Twyne, a freshman at Kean University, has now taken the leadership position of president of the Class of 2014. Twyne knows that while age may be a factor used to mark inexperience, she is confident that wisdom will compensate. Twyne declared confidently her career path with a major is occupational therapy. When asked why she chose the major, she enthusiastically replied, "Because I like to help people." Twyne believes that a good leader is able to guide people, relate to others and is creative. Being brought up as the eldest child with three younger siblings, this first-year college student wants to continue setting a good example for her siblings.
During her first semester at Kean, Twyne was involved with the Kean University Gospel Choir, one of the university's performance based student groups, and regularly volunteered on campus. Twyne is also a part of the residential community as a desk manager in Rogers Hall for the office of residence life.
However, things recently became challenging for Twyne this semester. She went from vice president of the freshmen class to president, and with the commendable promotion came additional, demanding responsibilities.
"There are more meetings, more paperwork and more people to work with," she commented. But instead of dreading the change and accompanying tasks, Twyne openly welcomes them, enjoying her new role immensely. "I like [these changes] actually."
Twyne believes communication is essential. Her ideas for the freshmen class this semester are to work together towards the goals they need to achieve and to push the class in the right direction. Twyne wants the freshman class to share and interact with her team; whether they are thoughts on existing campus procedures or what they feel needs to be improved.
These are just the start of Twyne's ambitions, she states. She wants the educational process and students' time at Kean to be a fun experience, believing students need outlets, not just books. Twyne wants the members of her class to obtain more skills and gain the opportunities to express those skills in preparation for "the real world".
Twyne believes her involvement in Student Organization, the full-time undergraduate student government at Kean University, and her previous role as vice president of her class helped better her as a person and as a leader. Her "sneak peak" at the responsibilities of being president aided in preparing her for her present duties. When asked about her supportive system during the transition, she mentioned Adetokunbo "Dare" Thompson, president of Student Organization; and Stephanie Faser, director of the office of student government, were very supportive during the conversion. Dare made it a point to work time within his schedule to help, guide and advise her step-by-step of what she has to do.
As the second half of her freshman year ensues, Twyne looks to move her class forward into to prepare them for their sophomore year. "[I have] leadership skills and need to express [and share] them by staying involved." To prospective students looking to attend Kean in the coming Fall 2011 semester, she says, "Don't be afraid of new experiences. New experiences make you who you are.
(01/24/11 11:00pm)
Though education is vital to ensure students a more successful future after their academic careers, not all life's valuable lessons and experiences can be learned completely behind a desk or on a chalkboard. Learning, alternatively, can come from real-life occurrences. However, some students may not know there is a program that can give them the worldly experiences that could make their education more thorough. This kind of learning is not limited to the more well known internships or extracurricular activities, but something else that grabs the student, immersing them in knowledge and service. Courses that offer service-learning are Substantive Criminal Law, Psychology of Women, Program Organization and Facility Design, and Planning and Organizing Activities. All of these are three credit courses. The service-learning that is taken along with the course is one credit.
Service-learning is a specific academic program created for Kean University students to further both their scholarly education and their involvement in the community. This program coexists along with certain classes where one can obtain academic credit for, as well gain experiences that go beyond the classroom. It immerses a student into the society and community to further their knowledge of important public events and issues. For instance, a student would perform a community service as a type of course work where they must give 40 hours of service during the semester of that particular class.
During the semester, the student will work with local, non-profit organization referred to as a community partner. This service can be in the form of many different positions within the organization. Students can volunteer in public relations, become a mentor, tutor, perform research, and write and publish as well as becoming an advocate. The participating professors and staff of service-learning decide what groups would be a better candidate for the students to partake in.
Service-learning is just what the word means. It is a highly benefiting combination of learning and community service that will help students strive towards their greatest achievements. Students must go through training which will take place during the beginning of that semester. There are many different benefits to service-learning. Students not only feel the emotion, personal growth in their involvement, but have the opportunity to meet new people from different backgrounds of life. They gain an understanding which they can apply and further evaluate with classroom facts they learn at the university. A student could figure out what he or she wants to do as a career while participating in this service-learning course. It also increases the students' independence.
Students should be aware that they can still do the service without registering for the courses. Kean University has over one hundred different agencies that are available to be participate in.
This program gets the students involved in the community and teaches them in a lively setting. It helps harness skills for academia, responsibility and commitment. These things are very important to a student trying to get involved with his or her social environment in a healthy and helpful way.
(11/15/10 11:00pm)
The theater is darkened and there is a pleasant chill in the air. The crowd is whispering to themselves. There is a thin whitish-blue screen at the back of the stage, looking as if it is made out of wood. The chairs are a polished, comfortable red, outlined by the matching curtain billowing quietly. The lights that are shining in the theater are warm and mellow on the stage. A quiet hush descends upon the huge room as the Stage Managers enter from behind the curtains and walks on to the stage. "Our Town" was written by Thornton Wilder, an American playwright and novelist, and the production presented to Kean University in the Wilkins Theatre was directed by Bill Bowers. It starred actors Tony Mowatt, Patrick Getty, Lissette Valentin, Krystle Seit, Lucas Pinner, Greg Scalera, Amber Adeline and Ralph Saro, as well as a beautiful cast of other great supporting actors. The Stage Manager, played by Tony Mowatt, had a crucial role and a very interesting one to say the least. Firstly, "Our Town" was the first play of its type. The Stage Manager takes the role as a narrator. There is a relationship between the Stage Manager and the audience throughout the play, which really defeats the fourth wall - a term referring to the classic disconnect between narrator and audience. His role is that of a guide for the characters and creator of a more vivid world and atmosphere for the audience.
Act One of "Our Town" opened with the Stage Manager explaining all the information about the Town. Most, if not all, of the characters are introduced in this act. Daily life of the residents of Grover's Corners, New Hampshire is apparent in this, as the audience sees how civilians interact and go about there lives. If the audience looks deep enough, they may see the implied stereotypes defined in the "All-American Family" or the "American Dream."
In Act Two, the main theme is love and the characters, George and Emily, get married. How they get married is told in a flashback. The Stage Manager takes the parts as an ice cream man and George takes Emily to get a quick ice cream soda. Emily admits to George that he has changed a lot and not so much for the better. This conversation leads to them telling each other how much they care and love for one another.
Finally, in Act Three, the theme is death. In the beginning of Act One, the Stage Manager had told the audience that a few characters have passed away. Emily happens to be one of them. This sequence is very interesting. The Stage Manager takes Emily back in time to relive her 12th birthday. At the end of this act, Emily learns how worthwhile life is and that the living takes life for granted. According to the original texts of the play, it has to pantomimed and done with no props, scenery and sets.
"I thought it was really good," says Kirsten Sullivan, a junior Special Education K-8 major, "It's hard to believe that the actors were undergrads, because they were so good. They were great." She later said, "I like act three because it was the most dynamic."
The Kean Stage production of "Our Town" is a likely one to return to Kean, given its campus and audience success for this year and in the past.
(11/15/10 11:00pm)
The atmosphere feels nice and toasty. The smell of pumpkin spiced candles filter through the air. The sweet potato pie smells very tantalizing and the roasting turkey in the oven makes the family members salivate with hunger. A daughter, mother and grandmother work furiously on tasty side dishes that are cooking on the stove. Their spouses play a friendly game of football with the children. They scamper back and forth through the golden and red leaves in the backyard. The crunching noise of feet against those leaves gives off an unusual homey feeling. During the autumn and winter seasons, there are a lot of great holidays. One of those is the November holiday called Thanksgiving. Most centerpieces during Thanksgiving feasts are turkeys. Friends play football to lose the pounds gained from the feasting and some fall fast asleep after eating. This holiday is so family-oriented that when you hear from others about what they are doing for Thanksgiving, it may be very unusual to hear that someone was not with their family on this feasting holiday. Television specials of Thanksgiving-themed movies and television shows capture the screen.
Laura-Ann Jones, a sophomore majoring in political science, said that in her family "everybody does their own thing." "Turkey isn't a big thing in our house," says Jones. Laura-Ann continued her statement on the fact that the family does get together during the holiday. Amanda Johnson, a freshman majoring in education said, "Usually my mom cooks for two days and all the family comes over."
Thanksgiving is a secular holiday celebrated not just in the United States, but in Canada as well. However, the United States celebrates it on the fourth Thursday in November. It is a holiday based on giving thanks. It is mostly celebrated at the home, with friends and family. Thanksgiving is a time for people to gather together and be thankful for what they have. Family and friends may be very important to students, especially with the autumn and winter holidays approaching one after the other.
The first Thanksgiving in the United States was in 1621 to acknowledge the harvest reaped after a winter that was not forgiving. The colonists of Plymouth had invited the local Native Americans to come join them at their memorable feast. It wasn't until October 1777 that the thirteen colonies celebrated this holiday on the same day. However, it is also said that the actual first Thanksgiving was when English settlers came to Berkeley Hundred on December 4, 1619. The settlers wanted the day to be observed annually to give "thanksgiving" to God. Now in "modern" times, Americans celebrate it on the fourth Thursday during the second to last month. This was done by a law in 1941.
Senior John Herrera, a finance major, says that he spends Thanksgiving with his family and they all eat. Julie Narain, senior majoring in media/film, broadcasting option, also that she eats with her family during the family-oriented holiday. Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!
(10/25/10 10:00pm)
It is a cold October night. The laughter from children, teenagers and adults hovers in the crisp, autumn air. Pillowcases and plastic pumpkins with handles are filled with sweet candies, miniature bags of chips and caramelized foods. They shake from the exuberant running as people go door to door asking for tricks and treats. Decorations hang from bureaus, walls and refrigerators. The television screen is showing a horror movie sequence while the television speakers blast horrific, scary sounds.
Halloween is swiftly approaching! Many students have different plans for this festive and interesting holiday. Others have costumes that they are planning to wear. Some students have different things planned and others do not have solid plans as of yet. Then there are students that have so much work to do that they do not even have time to do any celebratory activities. However, if a student is staying home or going out, different treats will sweeten anyone's sweet tooth.This year, Halloween falls on a Sunday, which means its back to school the next day. Diane Prosper, a junior majoring in psychology said, "I get invited [to parties] but I have to study. It was exciting when I was a freshman, but I don't really celebrate it [anymore]." A sophomore, biotechnology major named Carlos Suero said that he did not really have plans made as of yet. "[I'm] getting a costume and going out with friends but [I've] no specific plans."
Other students like Vanessa Ojeda are trying to make time in their busy college schedules for some everlasting fun. "I'm taking my nephew trick-or-treating. My family and I are dressing up as KISS." Ojeda's mother, sister, two cousins and her are getting involved in dressing up as the band. Vanessa Ojeda is a transfer student and is majoring in psychiatric rehabilitation and has a minor in criminal justice.
This annual observed holiday takes place on October 31. Although the holiday originates from the Celtic festival named Samhain and the Christian holiday called All Saints' Day, it is very prevalent to many different people. Halloween is also known as All Hallows Eve, signifying the eve of All Saints' Day. In actuality, Halloween has many different names.
People at Kean University, as well as all over the world, go trick-or-treating, wear creepy or exotic costumes, go to Halloween themed parties, carve pumpkins and give them different faces, go to scary theme parks and watch horror films all night long. Students can dress up as the Beatles, a headless horseman, magical fairies and many other types of costumes. Other students who also have a lot of work to do can take a break and watch a Halloween movie or have a few friends over for a Halloween themed study party. The possibilities for having fun are endless. So, have a happy Halloween and stay safe!
(10/25/10 10:00pm)
From the balcony, the stage is enormous. The wooden harp in the center of the stage looks elegant, just like in a timeless land far from this one. A grand piano sits behind the harp a few feet away. It is black, glossy and magnificent. Red and yellow flowers are in clay-looking pots that line the back angle of the stage. There is a silent anticipation. The muttering audience chats before the night's climax. The figures come on to the stage. A woman holds her flute and a man holds his viola. Another woman takes her seat near the majestic harp. The spectacular "En France" concert was at the Enlow Recital Hall on Thursday, October 14, 2010. There were student attendees, as well as campus visitors who enjoyed classical, orchestra type music. Composers, Claude Debussy, Francis Poulenc, Henri Duparc and George Onslow, music was performed at the concert. All of the composers were French, however Onslow's father was English and his mother was French. But his French background is evident in his music.
Instruments performance at the concert were the flute, harp, clarinet, piano, violins, viola, cello, and double bass. The splendid musicians that played were Lisa Hansen, Robbin Gordon-Cartier, Romie de Guise-Langlois, Katherine Harris, Allison Brewster Franzetti, Brennan Sweet, Victoria Stewart, Brett Deubner, Susannah Chapman and Anthony Scelba. There were many musicians playing string instruments. The only wood wind instruments were the flute and the clarinet.
The concert started beautifully with Claude Debussy's pieces, Pastorale, Interlude and Final from the musical suit called "Sonate pour flute, alto, et harpe (1915)." The first movement was otherworldly and introduced the flute and viola, as well as the harp. The second movement, Interlude had an Asian flavor to it. Finale, the third movement went back to a similar feel like the first.
Debussy was followed by Francis Poulenc's composed music by Sonata in 1962 for Clarinet and Piano. The first movement Allegro tristamente was a piece that was constantly moving. There were moments in the piece where the clarinet and the piano almost shouted angrily. Romanza is the second movement which was more emotional in an energizing way. The last movement of this piece was Allergro con fuoco which was even more vitalizing and mischievous.
There was a brief intermission and then it was followed by Henri Duparc's musical suit L'Invitation au Voyage, Extase, Le Manoir de Rosamonde and Chanson Triste. Then George Onslow's "Quintet for Strings in G minor, op.51" was performed. The first movement was Allegro impetuoso. The second movement was Scherzo: Presto, a fast jovial piece. The third movement of the piece was Andante non troppo lento which was slow. The final movement brought everything back up to pace and was titled Presto agitato.
The Enlow Recital Hall was beautiful as ever and the concert showing on the stage was very relaxing for everyone attending - especially for students who wanted to slip away to another classical, enchanting world just for a few hours.
(10/18/10 10:00pm)
The unspoken fact about college students is their love of free stuff; free food in particular is one of the greatest possible gifts one can receive. On October 5, 2010, the Pringles Xtreme Campus Tour came on campus. Kean's campus got to feel firsthand the sensation to 'not stop once you pop' with free Pringles brand snacks and festive, jazz music playing live. The tour was presented by Student Organization of Kean University for the student body. On the University Center patio, a blow up tent was set up and people handed students free Pringles chips in many different flavors. Those who sponsored the event were Pringles Xtreme and FRS Healthy Energy. The tour was produced by Next Step Productions LLC.
B.D. Lenz, a fresh, new jazz musician of New Jersey, was also at the Campus Tour. He and his band played jazz pieces throughout the afternoon. B.D Lenz is a noted guitarist who leads an original band. He graduated from Musician's Institute in Hollywood, CA and went on to graduate with honors from the College of New Jersey. He played in a plethora of different bands over the years. His music can be heard on over 100 television shows, including MTV, VH1, Spike, CMT and Discovery.
The contemporary jazz band had the genre of rock and swing interlaced in some of the solos. Some of the songs that the band played were from Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. The students who attended the gig in the Little Theater seemed very impressed with the band and enjoyed their music. Students were seen dancing in their chairs and singing along.
In the band, there was guitarist, B.D. Lenz, a bassist and vocalist, a drummer and saxophonist. The funky, jazzy tunes echoed through the whole University Center building. It enticed students into the depths of the Little Theater to enjoy the blues undertones and melodious music by B.D. Lenz's band.
This Pringles Xtreme Campus Tour event was sponsored by Student Organization. To learn more about Student Organization visit the Office of Student Government in the University Center, room 321 or call (908) 737-5190.
(10/11/10 10:00pm)
The aroma of coffee beans hovers in the air. The smell seeps into the noses of students just getting out of their two o'clock classes. They still have one more class followed by a slow and tedious commute home. To wake them up from this inactive slumber, these people need a jolt. The smell of clove, cinnamon and ground coffee beans sweeps them off their feet as they enter the library to resume a fitful study session. Over in a corner of the library a group of tired students work on a project that is due at the end of the day. They have only taken a break to eat old granola bars and do a little stretching. The soft roar of the espresso machines and the light laughter filters into the nearest rooms and climbs the staircases up to the higher floors of the library.
The library has a new extension to its ever-growing community. A Starbucks coffee house outlet has opened up in the library. It's located on the first floor on the right has a person walks into the library lobby. This new enterprise in the library is sure to attract attention of the students and faculty who are in need of a quick jolt of caffeine. Because of its convenient location on the first floor of the Nancy Thompson Library, it will be easier for students to drop by and grab something or even sit down to eat and relax. When asked about the new Starbucks, Monica Lin, a senior majoring in accounting, said, "It's good. I didn't go to the library [before]. And I'm not a library person." When asked if the Starbucks brings her to the library, Monica agreed contently.
The new, stylish coffee shop setting gives the library a new, energetic flare. Students can sit at booths and tables to drink their coffee or tea and eat their pastries. It is very spacious and has a sitting area with circular tables and chairs outside for those warm days when students would like to enjoy the weather.
Krystle Lowery, a senior majoring in business management, said "I'm glad they added it here. It's a place we can eat and work. It was a good investment." Starbucks is not just a coffee shop where students can hang out and sip warm drinks. Students can also purchase food there as well. They serve hot breakfast such as Perfect Oatmeal, Reduced-Fat Turkey Bacon and Cholesterol-Free Egg White sandwich. They also sell yogurt parfaits, salads, and pastries.
With the mornings and nights turning crisp and chilly, the Starbucks' lattes are sure to make anyone toasty. For the fall, there are seasonal specialties that are released. The Pumpkin Spice Latte is an espresso with pumpkin, spices, steamed milk and sweetened whipped cream. It is the perfect seasonal drink for September, October and November.
A new drink that is the sibling of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, according to the Starbucks website, is the Toffee Mocha. It is an espresso with toffee sauce, fresh steamed milk foam and cocoa powder. The Starbucks also sells frappuccinos, lattes, hot chocolates, and many other types of drinks. Starbucks serves coffee beans from all over, such as Latin America, Africa/Arabia, Asia/Pacific, multi-region blends and dark & specialty roasts. If a student wants their drink lowered in fat, they can request that the beverage to be made with non-fat milk and no whipped cream. If a student wants their drink low in sugar, they can use a sugar substitute like Splenda and request for sugar-free syrups or ask for a little less.
The Starbucks in the Nancy Thompson Library is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.
(10/11/10 10:00pm)
University students are always faced with things that are very difficult to surpass but they get through it. Financial issues are one factor students struggle with today. Kean University encourages students to apply for financial aid before the start of the new school year, even if the student has never applied in the previous years. There are three different types of financial aid available: grants, scholarships, loans and the work-study program. Grants and scholarships are options that do not have to be repaid at the end of the students' college education. Loans, however, must be repaid at a given time after graduation. Work-study is a program that allows students to work part-time while continuing their education throughout the years. This type of aid is different, mainly because the money involved is earned under the department or field that the student has chosen to work under.
To be eligible for work study, a student has to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and be registered as an enrolling student. Students must make an online appointment to speak with Nick Capodice on getting a job on campus for the work-study program.
To apply for financial assistance, one must first file a FAFSA. Even if a student is taking out a loan, it is imperative that they do this first step. The student must then show that they need financial aid. They must also have a valid high school diploma/equivalency and be United States citizen (or qualified non-citizen). Students must have a valid Social Security Number and must be enrolled in a program to obtain a degree or certificate in a program. To see the continued list of directions, visit http://www.kean.edu/sfs/current_student.html
Student may also need to the visit the Federal Student Aid Pin website and request a personal identification number (PIN). However if the person is a dependent student, they should have a parent request for the personal identification number. Once the student has that completed, they should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online starting January 1. After its completion, the federal processing center will send out the Student Aid Report within the following four weeks. This Student Aid Report will have all of the student's financial information. These documents need to be sent to the Office of Financial Aid. Afterwards, the student should check their KeanWISE account to see the financial awards and requirements that have been given to them.
For more information on financial aid at Kean University, visit www.kean.edu/sfs or visit the 1st floor of the Administration Building.
(09/27/10 10:00pm)
William Penn said, "Time is what we want most, but what we use [the] worst." In the lives of university students, that statement holds true the most. Time management is a hard endeavor to start and control. Many students have a hard time staying afloat with work and school while juggling their personal lives. Because of this problem, they can often feel anxious and in a need for relaxation that sometimes rarely comes around until holidays. Here are some helpful tips for students on how to manage their time more effectively:
Students should make routines. Pick out specific, regular times to do things and stick to them. Make these outlined routines detailed so that confusion does not occur.
Use management tools. Purchase a small planner, big calendar or even a computer program that can create a digital organizer. Sometimes seeing a schedule regularly helps a student's ability to remember and retain. Students can purchase a planner at the Kean bookstore located next to the atrium of the University Center.
Make goals. Students should make short-term and long-term goals and work towards them at a pace that is efficient and productive for them individually.
Plan each day. Once a student has their management tool, planning out their day should be even easier, especially when they know what time to do each activity. Students can even plan their day each night before, instead of rushing every morning to ensure that they are not stressed.
Prioritize tasks. Students should work on things that are important to them or the tasks that needs to be done immediately. Do not do nonessential activities such as visiting favorite websites or going out with friends before taking time to study for vital test or completing homework before the assigned due date.
Pass on to someone else. When working in a group, delegate tasks to other if one is worried they cannot complete the assignment given to them. Students should not take on more jobs than they can handle
Making smaller tasks. Break large tasks into smaller tasks to keep things easier. Sometimes a job is too big for one person to handle. If is to big, break it down. It will surely help with the task.
Patience. Students should take their times to ensure they are doing a good job on their tasks.
Effort towards other jobs. Students should put 15 to 30 minutes of effort into a task that they do not want to do to avoid becoming bored or forcing too much thought into it.
Evaluation. Students should evaluate how they spend their time. Keep a small journal or even write in the planner.
Breaking away from distractions. Get rid of all distractions while doing a task. Most students get sidetracked by their technological gadgets while they are doing their "to do" lists and required work. Students should keep their cell phones, television and computer off and keep their door closed to ensure nothing interferes with their focus.
Staying healthy. Students should get plenty of sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly.
Break time. If a student is feeling stressed, they should take a break.
Always remember that there are only 24 hours in a day and everyone is but one person. People make mistakes so do not get frazzled or too disappointed.
"You're writing the story of your life one moment at a time." - Doc Childre and Howard Martin.
(09/20/10 10:00pm)
Nine years after the horrific event of September 11, 2001, that consumed the United States, the site and the country are still recuperating. Many people lost loved ones who were in the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, as well as loved ones who were on the planes that crashed. During those terrorizing moments, the citizens of the United States grew closer to each other. At the darkest hour, people were there for one another. However, once the stained and gritty images of what happened sunk in, things turned violent. Now, nine years later, things have gotten better. Those images on the television screens still fill the citizens of the United States with mixed emotions, some of anger, some of grief. But underneath all of the horror and heart-wrenching pain that still may be present, there is more to look at.On September 13, 2010 a discussion panel called "Legacy of 9/11" was held in the Little Theatre. Dr. Robert P. Hunt, a professor in the Department of Political Science, Dr. Dennis Finger, a professor and program coordinator for the Psychology Department, and Terry Golway, an assistant professor of history and curator of the John Kean Center of American History, were on the panel to discuss some concerning issues about September 11, 2001.
During the discussion, Dr. Hunt spoke first. He discussed his experience on September 11. He recited the horror from his perspective. "I was sitting at home and my children went to school two blocks away from my house . I remember all flights had been grounded." While he spoke his voice became quiet as if it was awful to even mention the beginnings of a disaster. He also mentioned "a preternatural silence" had hovered over civilians when the tragedy happened. Dr. Hunt's main topic was discussing how the events of 9/11 changed people's lives. He mentioned how things had changed for Americans as a whole. The War on Terror was initiated and the placement of terrorists in Guantanamo Bay detention camp was crucial.
Dr. Dennis Finger was the second to speak. He mentioned that the 9/11 catastrophe was "compared to Pearl Harbor and the assassination of JFK." Dr. Finger's position at this panel was on a psychological level. He mentioned that in 2003 the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Registry was created. They tracked down people who lived, worked and commuted in and around the area of lower Manhattan. They completed a survey and enrolled into the registry. They also got people who came to Ground Zero to help with the aftermath and clean-up, to join. Health professionals wanted to find out how these people were affected by the events on 9/11 that took place in their area. According to Dr. Finger's research of this topic, many people who are enrolled in this Registry suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It was mostly found in women, minorities and low-income households. People who had earlier trauma in their lives were also found to have PTSD after the events on 9/11.
The last speaker, Terry Goldway, mostly spoke about the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) and the changes they went through during the aftermath. The training has changed for first responders, firefighters and the police department. It is all intertwined now. There was a huge problem during the 9/11 attack. The firefighters had gone up into the towers; the police, who were circling in helicopters, couldn't make any contact with the firefighters. There was no communication between the two departments, but now there is. It is really a big part of the counterterrorism department. Things changed between the NYPD and FDNY.
This new training and change that most have been experiencing since 9/11 is the result of promoting a safer country in which the citizens of the United States live in, according to the panel.
(09/20/10 10:00pm)
The air is crisp and the wind is brushing against sweaty faces. A chill draft rubs over the front of their bodies and the sound of a piercing whistle slices through the air. Two hands are eagerly outstretched. In the frenzy to get to the ending goal, the red plastic baton nearly slips out of the sweaty hands. The next person, who is shivering because of the September breeze, breaks out into a run. It doesn't take long until they are sweating profusely. The whistle sounds off again and there is a distant voice yelling that there is five minutes left of the class. Another student slows down from the running and quietly walks over to where all the gathering students are moving towards. They are panting and lethargic. It is well known throughout the faculty that these students don't want to be outside on the track at all at this time in the morning. When a student is being forced to participate in something that they do not want to do, it really is not inspiring at all. But at Kean University, students are allowed to pick the physical education classes that they want to take.
Some students are tired of being ordered to run laps around a track all the time. Many students associate the same high school physical education classes with those of the college years. However, that is not true. On campus, students can chose from a plethora of classes when deciding on taking a health or physical education class to complete their major's guide sheet requirements.
Usually students have to pick a health class or no less than two physical education classes. Many students find it more appealing to choose a fun, outgoing PE course to study for the semester rather than a classroom lecture so they can use the time to learn and have fun simultaneously. The courses are also good to enlist the students in more physical activities so they can reenergize their bodies and stay fit, fighting off the pesky freshman 15. With the busy schedule that university students have concerning jobs, classes, extra and co-curricular activities and family matters, having time to exercise just to keep fit is slim to none for some. That is why signing up for class that focuses on keeping the student healthy and stimulated is a very good choice.
At Kean University, there are a lot of fresh and exciting physical education classes that students can take. Two interesting classes that focus on helping and promoting healthy bodies and spirits are strength fitness, personal fitness, T'ai Chi Chih, and yoga. Strength fitness focuses on body building fitness activities. Personal fitness focuses on cardiovascular, cardiorespiratory, and musculoskeletal fitness activities.
T'ai Chi Chih focuses on circulation and balance with an emphasis on moving meditation. Yoga focuses on physical and mental control when performing positions, breathing and meditation. Christopher Mauer, a sophomore majoring in, was asked if he would recommend the yoga class he is taking this semester. "I would recommend [yoga]. This class provides exercise and educational relaxation for stressed college students."
There are also beginner classes involving gymnastics (men and women), swimming, tennis, volleyball and many others. They even include a few intermediate classes. The university also offers modern dance, ballet, jazz, Latin dance, ballroom dancing, aerobic dance, and folk and square dancing. Some of them are introduction classes and they give a flavor of what the dance is about and how to do the steps and moves.
For more information about available PE courses, go to KeanWISE and search for sections under physical education. Stay healthy!
(09/13/10 10:00pm)
The audience filters into the Zella Fry Theatre. A couple of attendants rip ticket stubs for the viewers and usher them inside the depths of the theatre. A member of the audience sits down in a black chair and watches people filter in through the double doors. From the seats people hear unknown voices chanting a tribal song, while birds chirp and other animals make a symphony of music. It hovers around ears and sinks into their bones. If someone closes his or her eyes, one can feel themselves in another land - far away from their own life. The stage is darkened black and there are only glowing, light gold and green designs visible. These colors are intricately woven into a set of matte black scenery. The set is breathtaking especially for anyone who is not accustomed to a play. The audience wants it to start as soon as possible and then a young man walks on to the stage giving a beautiful soliloquy. Tammy Ryan, an award-winning playwright, created this fresh, new play called, Lost Boy Found in Whole Foods. It is directed by John Pietrowski, who brilliantly brought this play to life with a selected cast. A four-time Emmy Award Winner, Kim Zimmer plays one of the lead roles. Zimmer plays a mother, Christine, who has run out of adventurous experiences and seeks some friendly attention. Christine, who happens to be recently divorced, is trying to raise her daughter, played by Alexandra Rivera. Alex, the unhappy, angst-filled daughter, is not so happy with her family life as well. The mother and daughter are struggling to keep their lives afloat at their home in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Christine soon befriends, Gabriel, played by Warner Miller. Gabriel works at Whole Foods, where he meets Christine. He is a "lost boy" from Sudan. He has seen genocide and had to run away from them and live in a refugee camp for the majority of his life. Gabriel was then brought to the United States for a better life three years before the play starts. He's there to earn an education and bring it back to his home in Sudan. Despite, the horrors he has seen during his lifetime, he always has a smile on his face and keeps an upbeat, happy personality. During the events in the play, turmoil in Christine's home creates problems for everyone involved. But soon, with Gabriel around, things start changing for the better of everyone in the family.
This audacious story is about a mother who has lost hope in her life and a "lost boy" who has hope to give her. It is the perfect play for anyone who is looking for a little inspiration and shine in their day. Along with Kim Zimmer, Alexandra Rivera and Warner Miller, the play also stars Jamil Mangan as Panther, David M. Farrington as Michael, and Trish McCall as Segel. In fact David M. Farrington is currently attending Kean University and will be graduating this semester with a BFA in Acting. Angelique Rangel, a junior majoring in English education, had attended the play with one of her classes. "I enjoyed the portrayal." Rangel also went on to say that she had read the play previously and enjoyed the portrayal of Gabriel and Panther.
Lost Boy Found in Whole Foods is running from September 2, 2010 until September 19, 2010. It plays every Thursday to Saturday starting at 8 p.m. On Sundays, it starts at 3 p.m. The play is being held in the Zella Fry Theatre located in the Vaughn Eames Building at Kean University. Tickets are on sale for $25 standard, $20 for seniors and $15 for students at the box office at Wilkins Theatre. Visit http://keanstage.com for more details.
(09/13/10 10:00pm)
The wind is harsh and the sky throws freezing pellets of water. The precipitation slices through the air and soaks the backpacks that are thrown over shoulders in a haphazard form. The books are soiled and will dry wrinkled, which will probably frustrate these students even more. However, when they board the oncoming train, there's a happy thought floating in the back of their heads. They have obtained a discounted rate for their commute. University students love getting items that cost less, no matter if it is free food or discounts on textbooks. For university students, getting discounts is a plus; especially when the students have to deal with bills, their tuition and other purchases that have a high price. Kean University has many things to offer students and wants to make it a little easier for commuter students. When taking the New Jersey Transit System, students can save more of their money with this special program. The university has joined up with NJ Transit to create a 25% discount on a regular monthly pass.
These passes are called Quik-Tik and are for rail, bus and light-rail transportation. Undergraduate and graduate students are able to purchase them. Student interns are also allowed to get the discount monthly pass as long as the internship is through Kean University to obtain a Bachelor's or Master's degree and is an unpaid internship.
The NJ Transit Quik-Tik department has informed NJ Transit that some students may be purchasing a pass for other destinations besides Union. This is not allowed and may result in a cancellation of the monthly pass and the students will not be allowed to have a pass in the future.
To obtain a monthly pass, students must login in to their KeanWISE account. Once logged in, click "Other Services." This new screen should have a link titled, "NJ Transit Discount Ticket." From there enter the required information. For an existing customer, a student would log on to KeanWISE, click on "NJ Transit Discount Ticket" followed by "Reactivate Monthly Pass" and enter the required information.
If students need any information, contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs at 908-737-7080 or visit the Vice President for Student Affairs' website and look under "Special Programs" in the navigation bar. Students can also contact 1-866-QuikTik.