On September 23, 2015, I went to a Glow in the Dark Mini-Golf event. This event was hosted by the Stockton Entertainment Team, and took place in the Campus Center Event room from approximately 7:30-9:30 that night. I had heard about this event initially from posters around the dorms, advertising large, intricate displays and holes in what appeared to be stunning glow in the dark neon-esque visual effects. A day prior, my RA also started planning a trip to the event for their community interaction, which is largely what persuaded me to go. On the night of the event, we gathered a group of six people, and proceeded to the Campus Center Event Room.

As we got there, it was somewhat crowded, as most events are at Stockton. There was some reference of team size, but it wasn’t very clearly communicated, and we ended up making one team of six, which we assumed was for organizational purposes to begin with. Eventually, they started calling teams inside to play in order, which was definitely a good decision, as allowing all people in at once would’ve been chaos.

When we got inside, it was quite disappointing to see what reality was relative to what we were lead to believe by the advertisements. The neon-esque effects that were advertised were simply blacklights shone across the room, which provided little to no effect on the game we were playing. Some golf balls were white and therefore glowed with the blacklight, but a majority were not. The holes were neither large nor intricate, but rather small wooden frames with some tiny plastic obstacles, about 4 feet in length each. There were 9 holes total, with teams spread out with about two holes of space between them. In this regard, the organization was well designed, as teams didn’t interfere with one another. Pizza, chips, lemonade, and water were also provided as part of the event.

Overall, I feel we were largely mislead about the nature/scope of the event in advertisements, but it was still a fun enough time overall. It was well organized for what they had to do, and I suppose the lack of materials for more intense or interesting holes isn’t the fault of the SET. I feel that the advertisement shouldn’t let on too much as to the nature of what it had, as it looked significantly more interesting than what the reality was. In the end, there were snacks, friends, and a small fun distraction. What more could you really ask for?

On Sunday August 30^th, as a part of Welcome Week for new students, an event called Building Wars was hosted. The event was sponsored by the Resident Hall Association, and lasted from 12:30- 4:30 in the TRLC Quad. During this event, each building was given a color and was pitted against other buildings in various competitions.

To start the day each building could decorate a sign to put outside. Building D decided to create the tagline “Leaving the Dream” and decorated the sign with leaves and the names of the residents, RAs, and TALONS participating. The first event building D competed in was trivia. The topic of the day was Stockton trivia, and each building had someone sit in a seat and that person would then race to a table in front of the room to answer the question. Building D did not win this event, but the next activity was to play Ships and Sailors. This game requires participants to listen to instructions and do what is described, with the last person to do an activity being eliminated from the game. The game ended pretty quickly with a win for Building D.

In between events various ice breakers were being held, including favorites such as Ride That Pony, 1 2 3 Look, and Ninja. The next event was a watermelon eating contest, and the participant for building D quickly ate her way to victory over the other building, giving D another win. Then a tug-of-war took place, allowing each team to put eight of its strongest members on the rope. In a best of three games scenario building D was shown not to be as strong overall as the other building. Building D also participated in a water balloon toss, volleyball, and human foosball, with all ending not too well for the building.

The final event for building D was an inflatable obstacle course race. During this race three members of each building raced relay style to be the first building completely done. The other team proved too fast, and building D ended the day with another loss. Despite not winning, everyone who participated seemed to have a fun time and were able to bond as a building. Overall, Building Wars was a big success and a highlight of Welcome Week.

Katelyn Smyth

Day of Service

On September 12^th, 2015, I attended Stockton’s Day of Service. This annual event is held for all Stockton students, and is an opportunity to introduce students to service learning and to show them different ways that they can serve their community.

I was told that this year the event was being conducted differently. We were split into four groups based on colors (red, green, purple, etc.). There were about four different service projects that the groups rotated through so that everyone had a chance to experience every project. Everyone was able to choose what team they were on, making the event well-organized but also enjoyable because people could choose to be on the same team as their friends. The first station my group (the red team) traveled to, was a hands-on project. We sorted through boxes of books and organized them by genre for the club “Books without Borders” that sends books to schools and libraries in need. At another station, we learned from an environmental club on campus about how harmful plastic water bottles are and what we can use instead. While eating lunch in the Campus Center Event Room, we learned about Green Dot, a program on campus that promotes bystander intervention to reduce the number of crimes and unsafe circumstances that occur not just on campus, but anywhere we are. At the end of the day, we reflected on our experience and what we had learned and received our t-shirts.

The Day of Service was not exactly what I was expecting. When I think of service, I think of planting flowers in a garden outside, or putting together food packages for homeless people. Instead, the day consisted of some hands-on activities, but also some very insightful conversation and learning. The Day of Service opened my eyes to other types of service and also taught me to think critically about the effects of the service I do. Overall, it was a great day and a successful event.

With one step, a group of people that had recently been freed of the academic jail they called “high school” willingly exit the safety of their cars and join another academic environment. Nervous jitters flow through this strange atmosphere all the way from the TRLC to the new rooms they shall call home. These insignificant four white walls will soon contain the memories and joy of the next year. After a soulful goodbye to the people who raised these new scholars, this scared group of young adults are assigned a color and sorted accordingly.

Little do they know that this color will become not only their identity, but their beacon of hope. Now sorted into their groups, they are given the greatest gift you can give a scared little freshman. They are given T.A.L.O.N.S. These amazing people guide the group through the journey called S.O.A.R. They act as caretakers, friends, and inspiration. From the quad, the T.A.L.O.N.S took the first years to the busses where they loaded up bags. From there they led the freshman across the campus to B wing where the T.A.L.O.N.S introduced themselves.

In their introduction, they talk about the activities S.O.A.R has to offer. “We’re SOAR excited that you’re here,” they say. This ongoing pun will follow the now tribes through all of the experience. When the introductions are over, the icebreakers start. These icebreakers will be played so much, that at the end of this trip, everyone will know each other like they were childhood friends. The kids load up into the buses and then they’re off. After an hour and a half in the car, they disembark on a new terrain.

The cabins these freshmen are assigned resemble something of a chicken coop. With eight beds along the walls, the close quarters force these scared chickens to make friends. Next to follow is the night in the field. A band comes and plays classic rock. There the tribes form together to develop chants and defeat the other tribes in ultimate dance battles. Snow cones are served, and friends are made.

The next day follows starting at 7am sharp. After breakfast the tribes are divided and given designated events. From free time, to high ropes, these tribes bond over the new challenges they face. This follows to the next day. On this day, the tribes realize that their S.O.A.R adventure is over. On their last day the tribes do their activities. One of these, is the high ropes. These intercut challenges are designed to force the “triblets,” to get out of their comfort zone and form a new confidence that they can carry into the new year. They must “chase their lion.” This term is thrown around throughout S.O.A.R. and used to help the freshmen conquer their insecurities

When S.O.A.R ends, the friendships that are made do not end. They carry on. These tribes are now bonded, not only with their tribe members, but with their T.A.L.O.N.S. These people are no longer tribe members, but a family. Every member is different in their own ways, but that’s what makes them special. That’s what makes them S.O.A.R-tastic.

As a move-in event for new freshmen, Stockton University held a three-day, two-night camping event entitled “S.O.A.R.” It involved sorting students into tribes randomly, and several activities to build teamwork, leadership skills, and friendships. When we first arrived at Stockton, we moved in early and were sorted into our colored tribes. We then played icebreakers, met the people in our tribes, and said goodbye to our parents. After this, we loaded the buses.

Upon our arrival, we were given an overview of what we would be doing. We played more icebreakers, had some free time, and ate dinner. Then, we each went to our cabins. Some of us had air conditioning, beds, and indoor showers. Others, myself included, had cots and no electricity. No matter which environment one was in, friendships were still made.

Over the course of the next two days, I made a lot of friends, ate a lot of food, and developed a nearly permanent coating of dirt and dust that I’m pretty sure I am still scrubbing off in the shower. The T.A.L.O.N.S. made everyone laugh and bond, and kept us organized. They are a very talented, pleasant group of people. I faced some fears at S.O.A.R., including walking across a log suspended in the air with nothing but a rope holding me on. I was exposed to a rustic way of life, living simply with no luxuries, but it was still a learning experience. The camp leaders and T.A.L.O.N.S. made everything interesting, and continue to make a lasting impression even so long after the event. I am still friends with the people I met on S.O.A.R. and will continue to be throughout my college experience. When S.O.A.R. was over, each of us had friends to start the school year with and talk to as college began. S.O.A.R. empowers people to make friends, take risks, and be confident going into college. This trip is a great experience for incoming freshmen and will continue to make lasting impacts throughout Stockton’s years.

The Day of Service was on the 12th of September this year. This event was run by the office of student engagement. It was an informative day, brimming with new details on the multiple ways Stockton’s community needs people to get involved. This day, although extremely interesting and helpful, was not what I expected. Our RA’s and other Honors students had described past years experiences differently than what this year was. I was expecting hands on activities, some on some off campus. The different spots were more lecture style, not bad just surprising, as I was expecting a more active day. The most hands-on activity there was the Books Without Borders presentation, where I was part of the “heavy lifters,” moving cartfulls of books from different spots on campus back to the theatre to be sorted and re-packed. This was the best activity because it made me feel good to actually be doing some community service as opposed to just learning about what to do for the community. Both are important aspects that are intricate parts to creating change. This event taught me to view civic duty in a new light. However I just feel that next year this event could be better balanced between learning and doing. The seminar on prescription drugs, and the dangers of heroin abuse in New Jersey also taught me things I didn’t know before such as the facts on why this drug has become especially common in New Jersey, such as the availability and purity and price of it. An officer from the Stockton force also explained some new information on a new drug called NARCAN that revives people from a deadly high, or drug overdose. I made new friends doing Books Without Borders, one of whom steered and controlled an empty book cart we rode downhill on the way to pick up another load. I would love to be involved in a program that integrates more active service events next year.

On Wednesday, September 16th, and Thursday, September 17th, the clubs and organizations of Stockton University held the Get Involved Fair. Nearly every club and organization that Stockton has to offer filled the halls of A through J wing with tables of information. It was clear that each group involved in this event put hard work into providing information as well as a welcoming atmosphere. Each table had a wonderful presentation, gave students helpful information, and warmly invited students to join in their activities. The fair provided a great opportunity to learn about the variety of ways to get involved both on and off campus, meet new people, and serve in the community.

As I approached the table for Circle K, each member was eager to inform me about the club. They explained that Circle K is a service organization involved in the community in a variety of ways. I was very interested in serving the community, so they invited me to sign up for information and attend their meetings on Wednesday nights. Although I could not attend the meeting, they made sure that I receive all the information I need to get involved with Circle K.

Overall, the Get Involved Fair was very successful in getting students to get involved. The setup of the event was so informative, helpful, and welcoming that I found it almost impossible not to get involved in at least one club or organization. As a commuter, I find it hard to get involved, and often feel out of the loop. However, the Get Involved Fair completely changed this feeling. I now feel more involved in the University, and I am excited to be a part of and contribute to the community.

Recently, Stockton University, in collaboration with the European University of Cyprus, hosted an international conference in Nicosia, Cyprus. This conference was the brain-child of Stockton University’s own Dr. David Roessel, who has worked on this project for several years. The first lecture in the fall series of the Classical Humanities Society of South Jersey (CHSSJ), on September 23, was about the work put into the organization of the conference by students and faculty and the subsequent excursions across the Western coast of Cyprus around the excavation site at Polis-Chrysochous.

The organization and manning of the conference was done by both faculty and students of Stockton including, Dr. Lisa Honaker, Dr. David Roessel, Dr. Amy Papalexandrou, Dr. Tom Papademetriou, Ciara Barrick, Sean McCullough, and many more. The conference began with an opening in front of the Famagusta Gate. The opening was then followed by lectures and presentation of papers from students and professors from across the world, including Dr. Rain Ross on “Developing Community through Dance in Lebanon” and Dr. Christina Morus on “Imagining Dubrovnik”. At the end of the conference, everyone experienced Cypriot culture through music and art.

The students shared their experiences in Cyprus at such places as the site in Polis-Chrysochous, Kykko Monastery, and Petra tou Romiou (the legendary birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite). The consensus of the students was awe and a sense of actually being at the places that most only read about in books. The only thing I can relate their experience to is going to a museum and imagining the sea of time flowing back to when a certain item was used and who would have used and imagining that the item in front of you was used millennia ago. Stockton’s time in Cyprus ended with the group discussing several classical works, like Aristophanes’ comedies and the Aeneid, over dinner. At the end, Sean McCullough rightly explained to us that “nerds are great to have dinner with.”

On Saturday, September 12^th, Stockton University hosted an event called the Day of Service. This event was open to all students that hoped to become more involved in the community and to gain insight about possible opportunities to serve.

The gathering began with opening remarks by the keynote speaker, Todd Bernstein. He introduced the message of the day with quotes and anecdotes about service and its power. Next, students broke off into different sections and proceeded to various seminars and programs. One of the most prominent programs was hosted by Stockton’s Books without Borders. Here, students were able to learn about fellow students that are working to attain an education but have limited access to necessary books. Students were called to action, aiding in the organizing and packing of hundreds of workbooks, textbooks, and novels that would be sent away to countries in need. A speaker from the Covenant House in Atlantic City also spoke during this program, informing students about the work that is done at the house, and ways in which others can assist and improve the lives of the many unfortunate local children that the organization supports. Another striking component of the Day of Service was a lecture by Brian Pluchino. This discussion introduced the role of “green dots” on campus. Here, students were informed of the important actions that they should take to reduce violence around Stockton and to promote an atmosphere of community and cooperation.

The day ended with a reflection session in which students were grouped at tables, each table paired with a discussion leader to prompt conversation. Participants discussed the importance of the knowledge that they gained throughout the day, and conversed about what actions they planned on taking in the future to promote service on and off the campus of Stockton University. Many state that the Day of Service did not include much hands-on service at all, but throughout the reflection session, students learned that the hands-on service is not what is the most important, and it is not the first step. The Day of Service presented the idea that the most meaningful aspect of service is its effect, and it cannot take effect if it is not first understood.

Freshman Blogging Project: Blood Drive

On the week of September 13, 2015, the American Red Cross held a blood drive at Stockton University.  The event was in Big Blue, the main athletic gymnasium on campus, and was from 10am until 3pm.  Running the event for five hours allowed more people to donate because they could find multiple time slots that fit into their schedule.

I volunteered at the blood drive on the morning of September 17, 2015.  My job consisted of checking people in and providing them with information about the risks of donating and the safety precautions.  For example, people who are anemic, or iron deficient, may not be able to donate or that the loss of blood may cause people to faint.

In order to prevent donors from passing out, other students were working the food and drink station.  Snacks, like cookies and pretzels, and drinks, like water and apple juice, were handed out to donors to ensure that they stayed hydrated and regained their strength after losing so much blood.

The blood donated will be used for blood transfusions around the nation.  Every two seconds, someone needs a blood transfusion because of a medical illness or car accident.  One pint of blood can save three lives, so every donation counts.

My friend in high school has a brother who needed blood transfusions since he was born.  She felt useless and wanted to do something to help her sibling, but was unsure how.  Then, she heard about student-organized blood drives and was instantly filled with hope and excitement.  Starting in the summer of her junior year, she ran a blood drive every spring and summer because she knew that the donations saved her brother’s life.  I donated every time because I felt like it was a selfless act that, although anonymous, went a long way with the receptors and their families.

Thus, the Red Cross blood drive held at Stockton University was instrumental in giving back to the community and providing support for people who are ill and need blood transfusions.