SSS @ LU

Everything Higher Education

2011-08-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

The McNair Program at Bloomfield College has started a Blog called “Everything Higher Education" where they will be posting fellowship and scholarship information. This should be a great resource for the TRiO community and students are encouraged to sign up to follow the Blog.

http://allhighered.blogspot.com/

Cyberbullies ... are they the new 21st century bully?

2010-10-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

Recently when we updated our SSS Handbook we added a policy which addresses one of the newest legal issues created by technology, cyberbullying. The very basic and simple policy reads like this ....

Cyber-Bullying and Harassment

Threatening, harassing, and/or bullying others using electronic means to include the Internet and/or mobile technology is strictly prohibited. This could result in denial of access to the SSS computer lab/laptops and administrative disciplinary actions.

The issue of cyberbullying has been at the forefront of the news recently. Teens recently spoke out on CNN about living in a wired world and being unable to escape cyberbullying. Watch "Teens Speak Out" here One study reported that cyberbullying causes higher levels of depression than face-to-face bullying and there have been documented cases of teens committing suicide as a result of being cyberbullied.

I am currently taking a course in School Law and our textbook is entitled CyberLaw: Maximizing Safety and Minimizing Risk in Classrooms. The author Aimee M. Bissonette, J.D. is a lawyer, teacher, and writer who practices law in Minneapolis.

Bissonette states that "cyberbullying .... relies on electronic devices, the Internet, and the anonymity the Internet provides." Cyberbullies have a multitude of tools available to them including cell phones, camera phones, e-mail, instant messaging, personal web sites, and social networking sites.

She lists several common forms of cyberbullying that we might not recognize as unlawful or unethical behaviors. As you read the list, think about whether you have ever been a bully or a victim of these actions.

Common forms of Cyberbullying:

Flaming - is online fights using electronic messages with angry and vulgar language.

Harrassment – is repeatedly sending nasty, mean, and insulting messages.

Denigration – is dissing someone online, sending or posting gossip or rumors about a person to damage his or her reputation or friendships.

Impersonation – is pretending to be someone else and sending or posting material to get that person in trouble or danger or damage that person’s reputation or friendships.

Outing – is sharing someone’s secrets or embarrassing information or images online.

Trickery – is tricking someone into revealing secrets or embarrassing information, then sharing it online.

Exclusion – is intentionally and cruelly excluding someone from an online group.

Cyberstalking – is repeated intense harassment and denigration that includes threats or creates significant fear.

Cyberbullies typically are females rather than males and rely on verbal, emotional, and psychological attacks. They thrive on the anonymity technology provides and are likely to act without first thinking through the consequences of their actions. The tools they use allow them instant access to their victims and a wide audience for their bullying behavior. Darby Dickerson (2005) in the article Cyberbullies on Campus stated, "Technology allows bulies to be meaner, more frequently, with more allies, before an inestimable audience."

Bissonette concludes by saying that "Cyberbullies are in our schools, and the tools available to these bullies likely will multiply over time. Left unchecked, today's student bullies will become tomorrow's bullying neighbors, coworkers, and bosses. But schools are not without recourse. Schools do not have to tolerate cyberbullying. They can adopt and enforce policies to clearly signal that bullying is not acceptable and will be punished. Just as important, schools can lead the way in educating technology users about responsible and respectful use of electronic media."

Technology is developing at a rapid pace and the law is struggling to catch up, but one thing is certain ... as cyberbullying grows, so do lawsuits. Several states have now enacted legislation that specificially address the issue of cyberbullying and hold offenders criminally liable for their actions. Employers as well as public agencies will be forced to address this issue or they may find themselves defending their actions (or lack of action) in court.

So how do you deal with a cyberbully if you are a victim? Here are some tips:

1. Ignore the person. Go on about your business. Log-off if the harrassment bothers you.
2. Block or delete the person.
3. Change your password, username, or e-mail address.
4. Contact the website to report anything created without your knowledge or to remove inappropriate language.
5. Talk to someone you trust.
6. Call the police if you are getting physical threats.
7. Never arrange to meet with someone you met online unless it is in a public place.

For more information visit http://www.cyberbully411.org/ or http://www.getnetwise.org/

Being an Entrepreneur is a cool thing!

2010-06-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

Sir Ken Robinson: Bring on the Learning Revolution!

2010-05-24T07:56:00.001-07:00

Why don't we get the best out of people? Creativity expert Sir Ken Robinson argues that it's because we've been educated to become good workers, rather than creative thinkers. He champions a radical rethink of our school systems, to cultivate creativity and acknowledge multiple types of intelligence.

TADC Urban Scholarship Fund

2010-05-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

This scholarship program was established by the Texas State Legislature in cooperation with AT&T, Verizon and Sprint and administered by the Texas Association of Developing Colleges (TADC).

For graduating high school seniors, first-time and/or returning undergrad college students, attending any accredited nonprofit college, university or technical school. The amounts to be awarded per school year are: $700 for community college, junior college and technical college students; $1,000 for public four-year college and university students; and $2,000 for private four-year college and students.

ELIGIBILITY: MUST MEET ALL REQUIREMENTS United States citizen and resident of Texas Demonstrate financial need (EFC up to and not exceeding 0050) Undergraduate full-time student in good academic standing at the completion of last school year attended Graduate of a high school in one of the following 19 Texas cities: Abilene, Amarillo, Arlington, Austin, Beaumont, Corpus Christi, Dallas, El Paso, Fort Worth, Garland, Houston, Irving, Laredo, Lubbock, Mesquite, Pasadena, Plano, San Antonio and Waco (NO EXCEPTIONS)

HOW TO APPLY: How to obtain an application: Visit online: www.txadc.org. complete application, print, sign and mail with required documents Contact Senior Guidance Counselor at your high school or the financial aid office at your college or university. Or send written request to: TADC, 1140 Empire Central Drive, Suite 550, Dallas, TX 75247

APPLICATION DATES: Complete application including proof of high school city (diploma or transcript) and 2010/2011 SAR (NOT the Print Summary) packet will be accepted beginning MARCH 1, 2010 and must be postmarked by: JULY 6, 2010 Incomplete Applications without ALL Required Documents WILL NOT BE PROCESSED

http://www.txadc.org/

College for All Texans Grant Program

2010-04-28T09:30:00.000-07:00

This scholarship is a need-based, one-time-only $1,500 award to be granted to 965 Pell Grant-eligible Texas students in fall 2010. The scholarship will be applied to educational costs for any accredited two- or four-year college or university in the United States.

To be eligible, Students must:

At the time of application, be U.S. citizens or permanent U.S. residents and reside in the State of Texas.

Be high school seniors or graduates (which includes GED recipients) who plan to enroll full time, or students who are already enrolled in an undergraduate course of study.

Be eligible to receive Title IV (federal financial aid) funding.

Plan to enroll in at least twelve (12) semester credit hours (or the equivalent) for the 2010 fall term.

Enroll in a Title IV-eligible accredited two- or four-year college or university in any of the United States, its possessions or territories.

Funds are limited and will be awarded on a first-come basis. The application is posted below for you to complete, sign and mail. No electronic submissions will be accepted for the application.

Students must complete the application and mail it to Scholarship America along with the following documents by the postmark deadline of May 25, 2010:

A completed and signed scholarship application;

If a currently enrolled undergraduate student, a cumulative transcript of grades, or if a high school senior or a student who has not previously enrolled in a postsecondary institution, a copy of your college acceptance letter. If you are enrolling in a Texas community college, a copy of your Apply Texas confirmation; and

A completed copy of the 2010-2011 SAR or ISIR. The SAR is the federal document that indicates the student's Expected Family Contribution. To be considered for an award, an applicant must have applied for financial assistance by completing the Free Application for Financial Student Aid (FAFSA). Once you complete the FAFSA and it has been accepted, the Department of Education will either 1) send you your SAR via mail (if you did not provide your email address) within 14 days, or 2) send you an email with a link to your SAR on the web. You will need to provide the SAR "Print Summary" containing your name and EFC. Alternatively, your college financial aid office can provide you a copy of your most recent Institutional Student Information Report (ISIR).

NOTE: All documents must be sent in one envelope.

Awarded funds will be disbursed directly to your school of choice after your enrollment in fall 2010 classes is confirmed. This $1.5 million scholarship opportunity is provided by the U.S. Department of Education College Access Challenge Grant.

To make application go to:
http://collegeforalltexans.com/index.cfm?objectid=95E8C88F-078A-D3A0-64484E106C85A9F9

Workforce Stats on Unemployment

2010-04-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

While male unemployment rates have mostly been very similar to female unemployment rates since 1948 (in the 70’s and 80’s the male rate was a little below the female rates), this chart from Verifiable.com shows that this recession is different. Male rates have soared to a peak 10.6% while females rates peaked at 8%. The reason for this unprecedented difference could be because the housing crisis hit the construction industry hard — an industry that is heavily male dominated.

This second chart, from Verifiable.com shows that workers with less education suffer more unemployment than those with a more education. The difference has been even greater than ever in this recession. In 2001, the workers with no education were suffering an unemployment rate of around 9%, while for those with a bacherlor’s degree the rate was about 3 percent.

However, in this recession, that has been about a 10% difference between those with no high school diploma and those with a bachelor’s degree. The unemployment rate for those with no high school diploma peaked at 15.6%.

Source: http://setxp16.org/wp/resources/workforce-stats-unemployment-different-looks/

Academic Lecture Series

2010-04-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

The College of Arts and Sciences' Academic Lecture Series will feature Sarah Vowell, New York Times best-selling author of five non-fiction books on American history and culture. Vowell offers personal, often-humorous accounts of everything from presidents and their assassins to colonial religious fanatics, as well as thoughts on American Indians, utopian dreamers, pop music and the odd cranky cartographer. Her most recent book, The Wordy Shipmates, examines the Puritans and their journey to and impact on America. Assassination Vacation (2005) is a road trip to tourist sites devoted to the murders of Presidents Lincoln, Garfield and McKinley. Vowell was a contributing editor for Public Radio International's This American Life from 1996-2008. She is a frequent guest on late-night talk shows and is the voice of teen super-hero Violet Parr in The Incredibles. The lecture, supported by student services fees, is open to the public without charge. This lecture will be held at the Lamar University Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 6th.

Music is Medicine, Music is Sanity

2010-03-31T19:54:00.000-07:00

Violinist Robert Vijay Gupta joined the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the age of 19. He made his solo debut, at age 11, with the Israel Philharmonic under Zubin Mehta. He's got a master's in music from Yale. But his undergraduate degree? Pre-med. As an undergrad, Gupta was part of several research projects in neuro- and neurodegenerative biology. He held Research Assistant positions at CUNY Hunter College in New York City, where he worked on spinal cord neuronal regeneration, and at the Harvard Institutes of Medicine Center for Neurologic Diseases, where he studied the biochemical pathology of Parkinson's disease.

Gupta is passionate about education and outreach, both as a musician and as an activist for mental health issues. He has the privilege of working with Nathaniel Ayers, the brilliant, schizophrenic musician featured in "The Soloist," as his violin teacher.

Do you have an E-Portfolio?

2010-03-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

Very simply put, a portfolio is a collection of evidence that is gathered together to show a person’s learning journey over time and to demonstrate their abilities. Portfolios can be specific to a particular discipline, or very broadly encompass a person’s lifelong learning.

An e-portfolio can be an interactive, modern way to show off your work experience to potential employers. Don't worry if you are not entirely web design savvy. You can still create a portfolio that is simple but speaks volumes about your talent and accomplishments in your career field.

If you want to establish your brand on the Internet; showcase yourself, your talents or your academic work, e-portfolio is the digital age information system to use.

Have you considered starting an E-portfolio? Take a look at this video for some inspiration.

Also, here are a couple of links to E-portfolios for you to do some further research.

http://sampleportfolio.blogspot.com/
http://students.ed.uiuc.edu/kkramer4/eport/

SSS Career Week - March 29 - April 2

2010-03-22T07:45:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a summer job, NOW is the time to begin. If you are about to graduate and need help with preparing a resume or practice interviewing, here is your opportunity.

Job Search Tips
Interviewing Skills
Career Exploration
Resume Writing
Cover Letters
Internships
Creating an E-Portfolio

We have set aside the week of March 29th—April 2nd to help you get prepared and ready to land the job of your dreams! Contact your SSS advisor today if you would like to schedule an appointment to receive some individual assistance with developing your job skills.

Black or African American? by Tremaine Smith

2010-03-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

The following article was shared by an SSS student, Tremaine Smith, and was written for her Intercultural Communication class.

Adekanbi said she has been rejected by Black Americans and has not felt connected with that community, although she has become an American citizen. She said she has had negative experiences with Black Americans, such as being called names because she is from Africa. “The African students' community, regardless of being from West Africa or East Africa, even though we are very different, we are like brothers and sisters of one people," Adekanbi said. "But I don't think that passes over into the African-American community (The Brown and White)." Judging by this story, I do feel the same way. Back in the day all black people were united as one but for some reason something caused Black Americans to judge one another to make them feel superior to Africans, making black people and also Africans think that we are two different races instead of one race.

So, I made a study that asked people hard questions about their race and what they think of the so called other race. When I started this project I admit I had a bias, because I was frustrated that an African American student had disrespected me. I was beginning to think that all Africans Americans were rude and disrespectful. But when I observed Black and African Americans socializing with each other, this is not the case. What I found through my study really surprised me. To me what it is really about was that people are going to treat you a certain way and the way you respond to it is the key. Judging another race by one person shows that Black Americans and Africans Americans have not evolved. Also, with my studies it made me think why so many people make comments such as when you see a Black person talking to another race or dating another race they are considered “setting us back”. The really big problem in my generation is the N-word, why is it popular? All these are things I question but the main one would be, which do you consider yourself, Black American or African American?

I observed two different groups on campus. One would be the African Americans and the other would be Black Americans. I wanted to know if there were differences in Black American verses African American. I also wanted to know if there really is a stigma of race wars against Blacks and Africans Americans on campus. My definition of Black American would be if your grandparents were born and raised in America you are considered as a Black American. When it comes to African American, I describe as, if your grandparent or even your immediate family came from Africa, you are African American. My first part of the study was conducted in Dr. Michski’s public speaking class where I witnessed that more Black Americans appear to be more comfortable with being with other races where some Africans are more comfortable with only Africans.

Also, Black Americans seem to be more Americanized in the way they speak and act with different races. An example of this would be that most Black American males want to be a pimp or some type of rap star other than being themselves. When I observed African American males on campus they are more worried about becoming more accomplished in their studies like going to graduate school, and taking care of their family. Also, when it comes to flashy clothes for African American males they prefer to not dress in the latest trend but with Black males they are more worried about the new Jordan tennis shoes that are coming out and how they dress. I think African Americans and Black Americans have different personalities. I have observed Black and African Americans act a number of ways from uptight, prideful, shy, quiet, funny, and loud. So, one cannot use personality to judge between them the two.

Black American also women greet each other differently than African American women do. For example, Black American girls only hang around females like them and when they are in a group they are loud, judgmental of other races and in some groups you hear nothing but curse words. The same is true of African American males, they never cuss or judge other races but Black males always seem to say the N-word at the end of every phrase and every greeting. With education Black Americans thinks that education will lead to money and out of the poverty but with African Americans education leads to being more accomplished in life. The biggest thing that surprises me was that when I asked a so called African American does she consider herself as African or Black, she told me she considered herself as simply an American. But if you ask a Black person how they consider themselves, they always say Black American because it seems that they consider race first before being an American. Black Americans think that when someone states they are African American they saying that they are not from America. I think that Black Americans think more about race than African Americans do. I have observed a lot of self-hate among the Black Americans where they change their appearance such as skin color and hair type to fit in with a certain group. But African Americans seem to know who they are and they do not want to change who they are to fit in with a particular crowd. When I observed Black and African Americans, I have noticed that African Americans appear more united where as Black Americans are not. The exception would be that Black Americans appear to unite within their own social class.

In conclusion, the saying is really true you can’t really judge a book by its cover. As I was doing this study I wanted to think that people will have the same opinion as me about things but that was not the case. I think that nothing should separate Black and African Americans from each other because we are all Americans. We as Americans should only think of ourselves as human beings and not think about race so much. There is enough racism in the world to add in reverse racism makes it all so complicated.

Little Known Facts about Southeast Texas

2010-03-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

The Port of Beaumont is the second largest U.S. military port in the world. About 48 percent of military cargo shipped overseas for operations in Afghanistan and Iraq passed through the port.

The Port of Beaumont is a leader in world commerce. Figures show goods flowing through the port were exported to 37 countries in 2008. Imports came from 21 countries. Port business activity generates about $11.6 million in state and local taxes and $23.3 million in federal tax revenue.

South Africa, Venezuela, Iraq, Qatar and Italy were the top five destinations for cargo leaving the port in 2008.

Recent economic impact statistics show the Port of Beaumont produces more than 1,860 jobs. The port generates more than $129 million in personal income for Southeast Texans.

The Port of Beaumont made aviation history when a Zeppelin shipped to the port took off for California on October 17, 2008. This was the first Zeppelin flight in U.S. skies since the Hindenburg crashed in 1937.

The Ronne Expedition, the last privately sponsored U.S. research mission to Antarctica, departed from the Port of Beaumont on January 25, 1947.

Source - http://www.portofbeaumont.com/

Name the SSS Pet !!

2010-03-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

You found us! Welcome to the SSS blog !!! We have so much good information to share and fun things to do on our SSS blog that we wanted to make sure you knew about us and that we want you to interact with us. Let's have some fun searching for the new SSS pet found somewhere on this blog and then suggesting appropriate names for him / her. Here's a hint: Our new pet loves to interact with your "mouse" ! Write your suggested name in the comments section below and tell why you think this should be the official name of our SSS pet.

SSS students attend Leadership Conference

2010-03-15T12:54:00.000-07:00

SSS participant Brandon Anderson writes "The SELU Leadership Conference on March 6, 2010 was the absolute best experience I have had since attending Lamar University. With this conference I had the opportunity of meeting lots of new people whom I thought I would never associate with also I became closer with people I knew already. This conference taught me how to be a leader, what i need to do as a leader, what kind of leader I am, and how I can affect people as a leader. This trip was the absolute best and I cannot wait to see what next year's conference will bring!"

The Psychology of Love

2010-03-12T14:41:00.000-08:00

Dr. Frank Conner presents "The Psychology of Love: Do Opposites Attract or Do Birds of a Feather Flock Together?" as part of the 2009-2010 Psychology Lecture Series.

Trip to KFDM and Beaumont Chamber of Commerce

2010-03-05T11:34:00.000-08:00

How to Avoid Studying Without Really Trying

2010-03-03T06:43:00.000-08:00

Don't have the appropriate materials that you'll need. This will allow you to get in a lot of conversations with others who live on your hall.

Realize after you begin studying that you need to go to the bathroom, or are hungry, or that you need to write a letter, or that you aren't clear about an assignment, or that you have to find out the details of a friend's date.

Dwell on how dull the course is and thoroughly believe that if you just had a half-way decent instructor all the material would be easier to understand and be more interesting.

Plan to study all the time and schedule no recreational time. This will allow you to feel virtuous and help keep you from seeing that you actually put in very little productive study time.

Develop a kind of smug, superior attitude that can be used to impress others with the fact that you don't need to study, that it somehow is beneath your dignity and that it is not worth your serious consideration.

Only study in your residence hall room with the door open. This will assure you of being there if friends call or drop in.

When people do come and interrupt your study, don't send them away because you'll hurt their feelings.

If your room is too quiet, find a place to study in the library where there is a lively social gathering. (An alternative to the library would be in the snack bar, next to the TV, and sitting at a table with a group of people playing cards.) Why be bored when you study?

Remember and practice the things you learned about studying when you were in high school. College isn't any different.

Always drink beer while you study. It helps you relax, and popping all those cans builds strength in your hands and arms.

Remember that "A clean and uncluttered desk is a sign of a sick mind."

Never study material you don't enjoy since you'll obviously never use it anyway.

Always remember that people will think you're smarter if you flunk a test because you didn't study rather than flunking it when you did study.

http://www.scs.tamu.edu/selfhelp/elibrary/basic_study_techniques.asp

Have you considered a career in technology?

2010-03-01T12:21:00.000-08:00

Did you know that studies have shown that girls are 5 times less likely to consider a technology related career?

The INcreasing Student Participation In REsearch Development (INSPIRED) Program is designed to increase the participation of women and minorities in computing. The program targets female and minority computer science (CS) undergraduate students, but also includes some outreach components for middle and high school students. The goal is to demonstrate that engaging underrepresented students in the INSPIRE program can 1)retain more of these students; 2)help transition them into advanced study in computer science or computing careers; and 3)attract more females and minorities to the field.

INSPIRED students are paid to perform research and participate in mentoring and outreach functions for an average of fifteen hours per week. They work in teams under the direction of Computer Science faculty members who serve as mentors and role models. The teams include students from all levels, freshmen through seniors.

The program helps prepare new computer scientists for participation in the global workforce by having them work in teams that are very diverse, including both men and women from different ethnic backgrounds. It enhances Lamar's infrastructure for research and education by providing for a dedicated research lab that will be used for INSPIRED research and related classes. It benefits society by enabling women and minorities to attain fulfilling careers in computer science, which in turn strengthens the discipline by the infusion of their diverse ideas and perspectives.

For more information about the INSPIRED program visit http://cs.lamar.edu/inspire/Content/inspired.htm

Sixth Sense - Integrating Information with the Real World

2010-02-25T11:43:00.000-08:00

'SixthSense' is a wearable gestural interface that augments the physical world around us with digital information and lets us use natural hand gestures to interact with that information.

What Can You Expect from the New Credit Card Rules?

2010-02-18T08:55:00.000-08:00

Rate hikes, fees, Double-cycle billing .... are just a few of the credit-card practices that have trapped millions of consumers into a life of constant worry over mounting debt.

Beginning Monday, Feb. 22nd, the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act (CARD Act) will take effect. New rules will be put forth for credit-card issuers in order to protect consumers more than ever before in history.
Here are the key changes that the new law puts forth as they relate to college students and young adults, as well as some exceptions that could still allow student to get in trouble with credit cards.

• No credit cards for college students unless co-signed by a parent or they can demonstrate "ability to pay."

• No credit-limit increases if you are under 21 and have a co-signer without that co-signer's permission.

• No credit-card marketing and freebies on college campuses.

Exceptions and Loopholes:

• Issuers will likely start appealing to parents to co-sign their children's credit cards. And the Federal Reserve has specified that issuers have the option of keeping the parent on the hook even after the young person turns 21, Wu says. "If that younger person keeps the credit card for 20 years, the co-signer is liable that whole time."

• Issuers are not allowed to give out freebies for signing up for a credit card on or near a campus -- which still allows them to set up shop near popular off-campus venues and offer freebies to everyone, whether or not they apply.

Credit cards are convenient if you don't always have cash on you, are helpful in keeping track of your expenses or in making large purchases, and are a convenient way to borrow money. But if you decide to use them, be sure to choose a card that fits your needs.

Some Questions to Ask Yourself Before Applying for Credit

1. Do I need this?

2. Do I need this now?

3. Can I wait until I have cash to pay for it?

4. Can I get credit?

5. How much more will I pay if I buy on credit?

6. Can I afford the monthly payments?

7. What is the total cost of the credit?

8. Are there any fees?

9. What is the annual percentage rate?

What's New at the Theater?

2010-02-12T10:14:00.000-08:00

Directed by Lasse Halström and based on the novel by best-selling author Nicholas Sparks,"Dear John" tells story of John Tyree, a young soldier home on leave, and Savannah Curtis, the idealistic college student he falls in love with during her spring vacation. Over the next seven tumultuous years, the couple is separated by John's increasingly dangerous deployments. While meeting only sporadically, they stay in touch by sending a continuous stream of love letters overseas -- correspondence that eventually triggers fateful consequences.

Time to Schedule Your Life!

2010-02-03T08:07:00.000-08:00

We all have very busy lives, but the life of a college student takes some serious time management! Maybe you weren't aware of how busy you really are! Did you know that taking a full load of classes can be compared to a full-time job? Did you know that for every class that you take, you should schedule about three hours of study time that week for it? Are you taking time in your day for "down-time?"(Make sure you take time to re-charge your battery and rest) These are just a few of the VERY important questions that you should be asking yourself this semester. Here are some of the events in your life that you might need to schedule: classes, homework, job, friends, family, organizations, meetings, internships, eating, sleeping and down-time.

Okay, now we know how busy you are, so what should we do about it? Let's work on your time management skills. These tips will carry you through college, work and help in your daily life. First of all, get out your planner, calendar and cell phone. Next, make a list of all of your activities that have certain time constraints. You can do this on your planner. Write in all of your class times, work times, organization or meeting times. Now, schedule yourself some study time!(or if you have tutoring-schedule it!) This will help you see when you have time to relax, eat, sleep and visit with friends and family. This will also help you to prioritize your activities. When people ask you to do something that you may or may not want to do, you can pull out your planner and tell them if you are busy or free. Another thing that writing down your daily events will do for you is to remind you of tests.(schedule study time during the week of)and you will also feel a sense of satisfaction when you mark off each day that you have finished. This is a good way to keep track and feel accomplished!

Now, get your cell phone out! Set your alarm for important weekly scheduled events: classes, work, meetings, etc. You can do this weekly, monthly or even daily.

At home or in your dorm, it will help you to have a monthly calendar posted. You may want to get a big wall calendar or one online. This is helpful for you to schedule and see your week-at-a-glance. It is good to look at each day of the week each morning, to see what you have to do that day or that week. You will feel organized and in control. Even though all of this planning and writing down things might seem overwhelming and just another thing that you have to do, soon you will start doing it automatically! If you make it part of your routine, you will do it without even noticing it.

The point is to stay in control of your life and plan your schedule. Of course, most people do not want to plan every minute of their day, like sleeping and eating, but just make sure that you get enough sleep and eat healthy. You are a very busy college student, so start managing your time!

New Year

2010-01-02T05:53:00.000-08:00

It is a new year, a new semester and a new you. You can start this year off with the attitude of setting goals and reaching them! Does that sound corny to you? Well it's not! YOU are the most important factor in your success. It is all up to you to make the decision to do what you need to do to get to the finish line. Okay, so why should you believe that you are the most key element in your journey to success? Well, it is all in your attitude and effort. Hard work pays off! That's right, I know that you have heard that before, but it is TRUE! Just keep going, keep trying and you WILL get there!

Why Should You Go To Tutoring?

2009-10-02T07:45:00.000-07:00

One of the services that SSS provides for our students is tutoring. We have peer tutors who can teach many subjects. So, why should you take advantage of this service? The answer is very important: for your success! There are all kinds of students in the tutoring program. Some students just attend for an extra boost in the subject matter. College IS NOT easy, so you should never feel bad about asking for a little help now and then!

Sometimes it is advantageous to get help from another student, who can teach the content in another way. Our tutors are also students and have good study skills and hints, that they can share with you. All of our tutors want to assist you in achieving your goals, whether it be passing a test, passing a class, writing a paper, learning how to study more efficiently or help understanding meaning.

We currently have eight tutors. Each of them have "specialty areas" of tutoring and are strong LU students. Please stop by the SSS office and meet them. You can find each of them, at different times of the day, in the Tutoring Lab or the Computer Lab. They are usually helping students, assisting students in the Computer Lab or helping SSS staff. We are so thankful to have such a wonderful group of tutors here at SSS!

Nothing in Life is Free

2009-09-01T08:21:00.000-07:00

Something I have learned in life is that nothing in life is free. I prefer not to use the word "free" but instead say "offered at no cost to you". Because the reality is, anything that is being offered for free, no matter what it is, costs someone something. And just because something is free does not mean it has no value.

Advertisers frequently use the term "free" when enticing people to buy their products. As an added bonus, they throw in something free! But in reality they may be charging you twice as much for the product you are buying.

If you purchase a lottery ticket and happen to win the lottery, you may think you are getting something for free, but just because it's free for you, doesn't mean that it didn't cost someone something. The reality is, lots of people with gambling problems may have spent their last dollar so that you could benefit from the winnings. When someone purchases a lottery ticket, they are not really buying a ticket. What good is a ticket? They are purchasing a "chance", something of little or no value, in the hope of winning something of value. But what they are really looking for is something for free.

If someone offers you a free gift, and you accept it, you don't ask "How much do I owe you for that?" But you also know that with the gift there was some sort of cost involved, whether in the form of time, energy, money, etc.

My daughter brought home a "free" puppy the other day from in front of Wal-mart. Guess what? That free puppy is costing her big time now in food and vet bills!

We all know as Americans our freedom is very important to us. But I think many people would agree that there is no freedom we have today that did not come to us at a cost to someone. People who have gone before us have given their lives so we could have the freedom we enjoy today.

Sometimes we are guilty of using the word "free" when referring to the services offered through government programs. For example, the free tutoring and other services offered by SSS are paid for by federal dollars, which in turn are generated from the taxes by the citizens of our country. Just because they are offered to us "at no cost" does not mean they are "free" and certainly does not mean they are of no value.

So the next time you hear the word "free", whether it's on the home shopping club or wherever, think of me, and think of who is paying the price for you to enjoy what is being offered to you for "free".

Time in a Bottle

2009-08-26T12:42:00.000-07:00

As the old Jim Croce song says "If I could save time in a bottle". This week I definitely feel like I wish I could save some time in a bottle. But that song is actually more of a love song, which isn't quite what I'm feeling this week.

It's the first week of school, and it has been a whirlwind. Tons of new students are on campus, the returning students are back, there is plenty going on. From my office now I'm listening to the sounds of Laser Tag going on in the ballroom downstairs. I'm super excited to see many of our students who went back home for the summer and to get updates from them. But you see, despite my excitement, I still wish I had just a little extra time.

If I had time in a bottle, I'd get a little more rest to prepare for the flurry of activity on campus this week. I'd use a little of the time to wrap up some paperwork I've been slowly working on. I'd get caught up on some of the things I've put on the back burner. I'd sit down and take some time to get organized for the upcoming year. And I'd use a little bit of the time to do my homework.

That's right, I'm taking a class this semester, so are Pam and Susan. We know what it's like to have to balance work, home, school, family, and the zillions of other responsibilities we all have. And unfortunately, time doesn't come in a bottle (I'd probably buy a couple cases if it did!) so we've all got to learn how to make the most of our time.

Here are just a couple tips that help me:

1. Make a list of important things you need to do. Keep the list in a handy place where you can check off the items as you complete them.

2. Make a little time for yourself. No matter how busy you get, it's imperative for you to have a little bit of time for you, otherwise you'll risk getting burned out.

3. Keep your eye on your goals. Make sure the things you are doing are leading you toward your goals. Feel free to say no to things that don't lead you in the right direction.

4. Be honest with yourself. If you have trouble finding time for the most important things in your life, have a frank discussion with yourself about how you are spending your time, and what you can do to get back on track.

I know this semester is going to be great! BUT, if you had "time in a bottle," what would you do with it?

New Credit Card Laws

2009-08-06T13:02:00.000-07:00

A news article on Forbes.com highlighted some new laws that could make it difficult for people under the age of 21 to get a credit card in their own names. The rules would require a cosigner for those who can’t prove that they have their own means of repaying debt. It would also prohibit companies from sending out the pre-approved credit card offers to people under 21.

When I was in college here at Lamar, credit card representatives were allowed to set up booths on campus and solicit students to sign up between classes. They offered freebies of every type. You’d be amazed that a student would sign up for a credit card, just to get a free t-shirt, or whatever else they were giving away that day. Sadly, I’ll admit that I was pressured to sign up for one of these credit cards. You know what my “free gift” was…some greeting cards with black and white pictures of cute kids on them. Yeah, I know…sounds silly.

I was very responsible with my credit card and eventually closed the account because I realized I didn’t really need it. I did keep another card that had a higher limit, for emergencies (although I can’t remember any real emergencies I needed it for). I charged some things on occasion, but always paid off my account in full. Unfortunately, I did know other students who had maxed out their credit cards, and certainly weren’t paying them off in full.

So what do you think about these laws, which are slated to go into effect in February 2010? For more information you can read the whole article HERE.

What if every student had a computer?

2009-08-04T10:18:00.000-07:00

Imagine if our students were being taught in systems where technology was just a natural part of the way we created and constructed and connected and learned, that it was how we do the business of education. Imagine how this would change the way we learn.

NASA Astronaut Sends First Tweets from Space Station

2009-08-04T08:35:00.000-07:00

HOUSTON -- NASA astronaut and U.S. Army Col. Tim Kopra has become the first International Space Station crew member to use the social media tool Twitter to discuss living and working in orbit. Kopra (@Astro_Tim) recently joined the Expedition 20 crew after arriving at the orbiting laboratory July 17 aboard space shuttle Endeavour. He is set to return to Earth on the STS-128 mission, which is targeted to launch Aug. 25. To follow Kopra on Twitter, visit: www.twitter.com/Astro_Tim

Kopra will provide followers with a unique perspective as an Expedition 20 flight engineer and member of the Army. He is an Army aviator and West Point graduate. He periodically will answer questions submitted on the Army's Web site. To submit questions and view Kopra's answers, visit: www.goarmy.com/space

This is Kopra's first spaceflight. He completed his first spacewalk July 18 during the STS-127 mission. Kopra is in orbit with station Commander Gennady Padalka and Roman Romanenko -- both Russian cosmonauts -- and NASA astronaut Mike Barratt, European Space Agency astronaut Frank DeWinne and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Bob Thirsk. For a detailed biography of Kopra, visit: http://www.jsc.nasa.gov/Bios/htmlbios/kopra-tl.html

Source: NASA news releases Aug. 4, 2009 http://www.nasa.gov/

Fall 2009 Lamar Jobs On-Campus Job Fair

2009-07-30T13:11:00.000-07:00

Thursday, Sept. 10th, 2009
Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Setzer Center Ballroom

The Lamar Jobs On-Campus Career Fair provides the opportunity for departments on-campus to recruit for on-campus student employment.

The event will be open to all Lamar University students, both undergraduate and graduate. This includes all classifications and GPA ranges. Registration is free for all employers. Please register by September 3, 2009.

Lunch will be provided for all recruiters during the event.

To register for this event and for more information, please login to Cardinal Connect

Communication Skills are Key To Success

2009-07-24T11:39:00.000-07:00

What Did You Say? By Terry Arndt

In a recent Life After Graduation, LLC survey, employers and college career centers ranked verbal communication as one of the top skills college graduates lack – and recent college graduates agree. When asked what skills do you believe would have been beneficial to learn prior to entering the workplace, nine out of ten recent college graduates cited verbal communication in their top two responses. Understanding pay and benefits was #1.

Knowing how to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and clients effectively is vital in ALL professional fields – not just business-related positions like sales and marketing. In today's workforce, communication skills are not optional – they are essential for every professional and can only be mastered with practice and a concerted effort.

Your success in the workplace is directly linked to your ability to interact with those around you. So what can you do to become an effective communicator?

Rate of speaking. Do you speak rapid-fire or back-porch? If you speak too fast, you risk losing people and/or appearing insecure. If you speak too slowly, you risk boring people and/or appearing, well, slow.

Volume. You have good ideas and the skills to put them into action, but if you mumble you are creating an obstacle to your own success. Speak clearly, enunciate, and project confidence.

Non-verbal elements. Eye contact, posture, fidgeting…all of these non-verbal cues can really reinforce—or sabotage—what you verbalize. Be aware of what your body is saying at all times.

Practice. Get out and start speaking – In front of class, groups, co-workers, etc. Take every chance you have to speak and use it to better yourself. Becoming a member of your local Toastmasters club is also a great way to develop your skills.

Other Tips to Consider:
* Avoid the use of slang in the workplace. Words like cool, you guys, like, dude, awesome, right on, or man are commonplace in our vocabulary. Know that slang is like a language shortcut. For example, if your supervisor praises you for your work on a recent project and you respond, "cool," you are missing the opportunity to say something much more powerful, like "Thank you for noticing. I worked really hard on that project and learned a lot. In fact, I can't wait to be assigned another challenging project so I can continue to develop my skills."

* If you are not sure of the meaning or usage of a word, don't use it. Better to use simple, but correct, language than to try to impress someone with a big word and get it wrong.

* Nobody is impressed by lingo, big words or obscure language. Your goal should be to speak clearly and communicate your message – not to confound or confuse people with your intelligence.

* Reading is a great way to develop your vocabulary. Make a point of reading at least one magazine or newspaper a week and try to read a few books a year as well.

* Vary the words you use. Using the same word too much causes the word to lose its power. For example, if you say that everything is extraordinary, from the way your lunch tastes to the fact that you just landed a big client, people will begin to realize that you don't actually mean anything when you say something is extraordinary.

There's really no proof that good grammar and vocabulary are indicators of high intelligence or advanced degrees. However, if you are well spoken and articulate, people will assume you are intelligent, educated, and capable. If you use poor grammar and exercise a limited vocabulary, people will believe just the opposite.

Having spoken 10,000 or more words a day since childhood, you undoubtedly developed a few bad communication habits. And, like any bad habit—whether it's using slang or lots of "likes" and "uhs"—it can be hard to break. However, the benefits to becoming an effective communicator are well worth the effort.

According to John Frederickson, VP of Operations for a physicians group in Florida, Communication skills are definitely the key to success. "If I can get my message across better than the next person, and I sound great doing it, I've just made a valuable impression – and our clients agree." John may be on to something. For the last four years, John's company has been ranked #1 in customer satisfaction. John attributes this to his staff's communication skills. What does this mean for his employees? Higher wages.
According to John, he provides his new employees a starting wage that is at least 15% higher than those offered by his competitors. "We want the best – and to me, the best is a candidate that possesses strong communication skills. It's that important."

SSS plans trip to NASA Space Center

2009-07-24T11:31:00.000-07:00

Hey SSS Students!!!

Join us as we blast off to the NASA Space Center in Houston, Friday, August 14th.

Come by the office to sign up and pay your $5 deposit to reserve your seat!!!