id magazine | spring 2013
DESCRIPTION
Simpson College publication dedicated to the collegiate minds and interests of Simpson College students.TRANSCRIPT
Life after coLLege
Behind the scenes
fashion
Byrd’s tenure
Meet siMpson’s new presidentQ&A Inside
suMMer
SPRING 2013
COLLEGE MUSICIANS
8 GREAT YEARSLEARN A FEW THINGS ABOUT
8WELCOME THE SEASON WITH STYLE
things you wishyou had Known aBout coLLege
a note from the editor
Leif Jeppson
Katie Buchholz Conner Juilfs
Steffi LeeBen RodgersJazmin RubelJames Tillison
Jake Barr
ID Magazine We are back! And just in time for the end of the semester.
For some of you, the end of the Spring term means dedicating half of your energy passing through the day without getting bored. The remaining half goes to passing May term.
For seniors, like me, the end of the Spring term means it’s time to leave. We finally enter the “real world,” a place we’ve been told is scary and will eat us alive. Fortunately, we are Simpson students, and we have been equipped with a liberal arts education. We interviewed a few Simpson graduates from last year, and they shared some of their experiences right after leaving Simpson (pg. 26). It turns out life after college is not too bad. It all depends on what you make of your college years.
At Simpson you will discover opportunities, challenges and unique experiences. But it’s up to you to decide how far you want to go, or if you even want to take on these challenges at all.
If you knew me from my freshman year, you would know I was the shiest of all. I never expected to be editor-in-chief for a student magazine, yet here I am for the second and final semester. I was pushed out of my comfort zone and I could not wish for a better experience. It’s been four years of hard work and long nights, but every minute has led to this.
“Work hard, play hard” is one of the messages we endorse in this spring issue of ID (pg. 6). That is the only way you will make it through college with a smile on your face and ready to take on the world. If your Simpson experience is like mine, by the time you become a senior, you will realize how much you have enjoyed this place and how much you will miss it.
For now, whether you’re going home, or sticking around for May term, take a copy of ID and read some of the delightful pieces written by your fellow Simpson peers. Enjoy.
Special ThanksDepartment of Communication & Media Studies
President Jay K. Simmons Simpson College SGA
Nuria CeronKelsey Hagelberg
Kara LovikLeah Otieno
Maurice’s
Writers
ID Magazine designers
Grace ChristensenSylvia KossMegan Quick
COPY EDITORSFACULTY ADVISOR Brian Steffen
alejandro caballero
A striving graphic design student minoring in marketing and coaching. Leif is in his third year at Simpson and he is a member of the Track and Cross Country teams.Editor-in-Chief
A graphic design student from Las Vegas, Nevada. Jake is a junior and plays on the baseball team at Simpson College. He expresses his creativity through his artwork and music.
1spring 2013
Table Of Contents
EIGHT YEARS: PRESIDENT BYRD
SUMMER LOOKS IN INDIANOLA
COLLEGE MUSICIANS
LIFE AFTER COLLEGE
leisure fix
26
Summer is coming soon and you want to be dressed
for the season. Maurice’s has the casual and professional looks you want.
Meet some talented musicians at Simpson
making a name of themselves.
14
22 Student
Loan Debt
Q&A WITH PRESIDENT JAY K. SIMMONS
16
QUICK AND FUN 2
LANDING THE INTERNSHIP 6LIFE LESSONSFROM TV & MOVIES 8
food for thoughtsimpson spotlight
24ADVICE FROM RECENT SIMPSON GRADS
8 THINGS I WISH I HAD KNOWN ABOUT COLLEGE 4
2 ID MAGAZINE
[QUICK] FUN[ ]FOR ALLREADS
&RETROSUMMERPLAYLISTYou are a college student discovering music and you are also entering the summer time, which means you’ll have nothing to do most of the day. Here is a list of classic summer songs to get you in the mood for blasting your Beats all summer long.
Wipe Out The Surfaris (1962) A Summer Song Chad & Jeremy (1964)
School’s Out Alice Cooper (1972)
Under The Boardwalk The Drifters (1964)
In The Summertime Mungo Jerry (1970)
Summer Nights John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John (1978)
Surfin’ U.S.A. The Beach Boys (1963)
California Gurls Katy Perry feat. Snoop Dogg (2010)
Nelly Hot In Herre (2002)
Pretty much anything by Bob Marley.
Mayterm Wishlist1.
2.
Trip to the Moon“That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” words said when Neil
Armstrong fist stepped onto the moon. Students will travel to the moon and discover what it really is like to be in outer space. Before the moon landing, students will meet and greet with astronauts, prepare for the no gravity experience, learn the science behind the rocket and the history behind space travel.
Travel the Seven Wonders of the Modern WorldThe Seven Wonders of the Modern World include: Channel Tunnel, CN Tower, Em-
pire State Building, Golden Gate Bridge, Itaipu Dam, Netherlands North Sea Protection Works and the Panama Canal. Throughout the three weeks, students will be traveling and keeping a documentary or journal to record their sightings. This course will cover the social needs and cultural history of each of these seven wonders.
3. Muggles No More!You are no longer a muggle, but a wizard during this three-week course. Discover
what it means to be a wizard and which path you want to go. Students will read some specific parts from the Harry Potter series to learn more about the magic world. In this course, students will analyze the media’s portrayal of Harry Potter and why this series is so popular. | “Anything about Harry Potter would be awesome.” – Jessalyn Holdcraft
URBAN DICTIONARY.COMJustin Bieber“A 15 year old who looks like and sounds like a 10 year old.”
Keanu Reeves“A selected person, a chosen one.”
One Direction“A UK boyband that makes girls all over the world sexually frustrated.”
Ke$ha“Taylor Swift + Vodka”
Celebrities According to
Lady Gaga“A very bad joke played on all of us by Tim Burton.”
Tom Cruise“Overrated douchebag. Practices scientology and poisons youth.”
Paris Hilton“In physiology, to have an unusually small gluteus maximus.”
50 cent“It’s just two quarters.”
Katy Perry“A female singer who kissed a girl and liked it.”
Donald Trumph“Living proof that money can’t buy good hair.”
3spring 2013
Poet’sEdge
The
A collection of Haikus inspired by common themes of college life. By Antonio Reyes
PROCRASTINATION
I’m having fun withAnimal crackers, becauseThey are food and toy.
Life would be nearly identical to what its now, just barely higher tech and overpriced.
Every inanimate object will come in either glossy white, cool black, or chrome. Of course, there is always the option to purchase a cover with a fun pattern or color — you wouldn’t want to scratch your $1000 toilet. Every morning you wake up to the iconic Apple tune and head to the shower, which is set to your desired temperature by Siri, who is now capable of pretending to have a stable relationship with you.
My advice, “when in doubtDance Party to Gangnam Style,Than do your homework.”
Homework preparation,Begins with liking,Facebook posts and photos.
You’re on the otherSide of the globe, I miss you,But, we have Facebook.
ROOMMATESMy neighbors suffer From diabetic seizuresOn Saturday nights.
Sharing rooms, closets,Cups, clothes, vacuums, oven andMovie night moments.
21st BIRTHDAYSpring-midnight, Clear-skiesWe twinkle in twenty-oneWe’re already drunk.
Facebook is a curse, a guilty pleasure. Whether you use it once per week or multiple times a day, it’s part of us and it’s here to stay.
Nothing so simple compares to the emotions Facebook gives us. That feeling when you see those red notifications on the top of your screen -- even though it’s just a game invitation or a party invite you don’t care about -- is priceless. The emotion when you receive a friend request makes you feel popular and happy inside. All of this is great, but Facebook has a deep dark side: It turns you into a stalker.
Knowing too much is a common issue for couples in all stages of a relationship. The start of any relationship comes with Facebook stalking, where problems begins. You start looking through your special someone’s photos and start asking yourself “Who is this guy or girl next to my dear?” (on a photo that was uploaded two years ago...)
And before you know it, you have created a whole background story and tied all the pieces together on how they met. Not only are you a stalker, now you are also Sherlock Holmes and you are really good at judging other people without even knowing them. Good job!
As the relationship grows, jealousy and suspicion grow too. Jealousy and suspicion are devastating enough by themselves, but thank god we have social media to make it all better -- because trying to put out a fire with gasoline always works. When you are in a struggling relationship, nothing disturbs your soul and makes you think more than quoted song lyrics and suggestive wall posts without any context; it’s tough to figure out if the posts relates to you.
At some point you reach a time when “it’s complicated.” It’s amazing how much impact a simple relationship status can have on someone. God forbid your special someone “unfriends” you because that is the ultimate sign of disaster. If you think about it, “unfriending,” and changing your relationship status to “It’s complicated” is just a way to tell people “I like drama, and I want you to know about it.”
Imagine how much less stressful relationships would be without Facebook. Facebook is a double edge-sword that needs to be considered carefully when it comes to relationships. Some people can handle a mature and cute relationship online, but some others need to give it a break.
Top News Most Recent
the social nightmare of relationships
IN A WORLD DESIGNED BY APPLE...
4 ID MAGAZINE
8 Things
AboutI Wish
College
I had known
DESIGN LEIF JEPPSON
STORY STEFFI LEE
Take a break to breathe, and remember that working hard means playing hard.When I first came to Simpson,
I was so afraid of failure to the
point where resting was not an
option. Simpson, however, has taught me that
I am human and I need to breathe. For me,
high school was all about being constantly
involved and never wanting a break. I brought
that mentality with me to college, but it is a
completely different environment. You will
burn yourself out if you work too hard without
any sleep or fun -- two of the most precious
things of your college life. Complete all of your
work, but make sure to go to college events;
treat yourself to a nice meal off campus; or take
a nap if you’re feeling tired. Keep a healthy,
balanced routine, and your work will get done.
Success doesn’t occur overnight, and you don’t need to be fantastic at everything.I am an ambitious student and
I came to Simpson wanting to
be great at everything. That
was a mistake on my part. No human being
is great at everything. It’s always easy to hear
about everyone else’s accomplishments and
want them for yourself, but know that you
are your own person. In my first semester,
I wanted to excel at all of my classes and
recognition. I was caught up with what others
were doing – whether it was an internship,
officer position, or simply a club. Don’t make
that mistake. Do what you’re passionate
about, and throw your heart into it. That is
what success is. It’s doing what you love and
pursuing it.
You don't have to find your true love in college.I was once completely aggravated with the idea of not having a relationship in
college. I got over it, and if you're frustrated, I know you will be able to get over
this too. If you want to date in college, go ahead. But understand that college is
fast paced and sometimes you might just want to discover yourself. Other people
might want to be independent. You have your entire life to meet your one true
love, so
don't worry if you don't
find him or her during
your college years.
Romance and
relationships don't
make or break
your college
experience.
1 2
3
5spring 2013
Don’t piss off your professors.I haven’t pissed off my professors, but this is just a general statement about
respecting your professors and following their rules. You want to keep a
respectable reputation among your professors because they’re the ones who will
be writing your letters of recommendation. They’re the ones who will be giving
you advice on what to do with your life and education. Show up to class, and
make sure you don’t miss meetings. When a professor says to do something,
make sure you do it. Don’t risk creating an uncomfortable relationship with them.
Make sure to talk – to people at home, to your peers, to your professors, and to guest speakers.Talk to people. Talk to people. Talk to people. I don’t care if you hate talking.
Make sure you get out of your comfort zone and talk. The whole purpose of
college is to build long-lasting relationships. It took me a while to learn that
I could talk to people here at Simpson College and back at home, but I’ve
learned. Remember to always be genuine. Be truthful. Also remember that
you’re spending four years (or however long you need to) at your college, so have fun and build
relationships with the people at your school. This includes professors and alumni. They are
your support system. Go into your professors’ office hours and converse with them. If you meet
alumni, connect with them. Conversations open doors.
Not everyone drinks in college – don't succumb to peer pressure.People drink, it's the culture
of college. It always has been.
Know that if you don't want to
drink, you don't have to. You
can still have plenty of fun without alcohol.
Check your school calendar to see if there are
any activities. Go spend a night downtown
with friends. Eat a fancy dinner. Stay in and
have a movie marathon. There are many other
options besides alcohol and parties. If you
decide to consume any alcohol, just remember
to be safe. Watch your back and surround
yourself with a safe environment.
It's okay coming into college not knowing how to do laundry (it's okay to ask for help).I know the headline mentions laundry, but this applies to everything. Never be
afraid to ask people for help. I didn't know much about Iowa when I first came
here, but with help and guidance
from others, I have been able
to fully adjust. Sometimes
you might not know what's due for
homework, where something is, or
who someone is. Sometimes you
might feel lost in life. That's
alright. People are there to help
you in college. Everyone is in
this journey together.
Just be yourself.There isn't much more to say.
Just embrace who you are, and
don't sacrifice your character
or integrity. It's always good
to remember who you are and
how you became this successful.
You're in college. Stay the hard worker that
you are, and remember to just cherish every
opportunity. You only have four years.
4
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5
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6 ID MAGAZINE
MOVIESand
LIFELESSONSFROMTV
By : Katie BuchholzDesign : Jake Barr
“You guys ready to get weird tonight or what?” ~ Adam Demamp
College. People refer to it as in, “The four best years of your life…” and “Hey, remember that one time…” or “I don’t remember last night…”. College is the time in one’s life when it’s socially acceptable to do a walk of shame, vomit in public, wear sweatpants to work (aka school) and discover who you are. But then… you get a real job. Student loans, man.
Blake, Adam and Ders are discovering the real world while being stuck in the ‘college mentality’. Three roommates, who work together and party together 24/7, teach us that the real world doesn’t have to be so serious
Whether it’s next May or four years from now, graduation will be a bittersweet moment. The real world is at your door. Yeah, your first job may suck, but your life doesn’t have to. Humor can be found in (almost) every situation. Workaholics brings forth the comedy in a boring, corporate job, and each character discovers ways to have fun in their post-grad life.
Stay weird, my fellow Simpson peers.
“Live Together, Die Alone.” ~ Jack
One of the most critical lines from the show LOST. We must remember that we need each other. Surviving a plane crash and being stranded on an island can put a lot of strain on someone. Jack reminds the survivors that they need each other. They need to work together, rather than be selfish and panic independently.
Groups are seen everywhere, from working together in sports, band, theater, and most commonly, group projects.
Oh no. Not those. The show teaches us that understanding
each other is crucial within a group. Group projects are hard to avoid in college and everyone seems to hate them. The biggest downfall to group projects is the lack of communication and involvement from each group member. When each member of the group cooperates and communicates, the group becomes successful.
For all you control freaks out there, you will have to work in group projects and you will like it -- at least until the project is over and you die alone.
“The world ended. Didn’t you get the memo?” ~ Amy
Realistic, heartfelt, suspenseful and pure awesomeness are a few words to describe AMC’s The Walking Dead. In a time of turmoil and chaos, the show provides insight on surviving a zombie attack and raises questions, like: What am I willing to do to protect my life? Could I shoot someone who attacks me or my family? Would I kill someone I know in order to protect myself? These questions are addressed throughout The Walking Dead.
The greatest lesson to learn from this show is that it is your decision; therefore you will have to live with the consequences and possible guilt. Struggling with decisions is a daily part of any college student’s life. Do I want Pfeiffer food today? Or do I save my meals for the upcoming Zombie apocalypse?
We must remember that no matter how big or how small the decision, there is always a consequence. In an exaggerated way, watching the Walking Dead forces the audience to thoroughly analyze the possible decisions you will face in the verge of survival mode.
Workaholics Lost The Walking Dead
Whether it’s action-packed, drama-filled or brings forth laughter, we all enjoy the emotions that TV and Movies can provide, and often leaving us with a message or two.
7spring 2013
The Bachelor is a breeding ground for drama -- that’s what makes it good.
The all American reality television dating game show features the best and worst out of people. Aside from the cat fighting and attention seekers, The Bachelor does offer a few lessons for us. Most of you already doubt the shows ability. In reality though, these real adults just want to find love. They want to have a family because they are ready. Or they at least think they are ready. One life lesson we can all learn from The Bachelor is to take risks.
Right now in college the word marriage and kids are not in our vocabulary, but we can take risks like the contestants on the show. Every bachelor or bachelorette dedicates their time, their job and their life. All for a risk to fall in love. As college kids, we have to take risks in relationships, career opportunities and risks to try something new. You may not get a rose for trying something risky, but at least you can say you did it.
“But the thing that makes Woody special is he’ll never give up on you…ever. He’ll be there for you, no matter what.” ~Andy
Toy Story 3’s final scene is a tearjerker. It teaches us that life is full of changes, time flies, we grow up and we must, at least physically, let go some of our dearest friends at some point in life. We must embrace change, but even so, the people you’ve met and the moments you’ve shared will never go away.
“Rose, you’re no picnic, all right? You’re a spoiled little brat, even, but under that, you’re the most amazingly, astounding, wonderful girl, woman that I’ve ever known…” ~ Jack
Jack was poor and Rose was rich. True love happens when the flaws of one or the other seem minimal when spending time together. Don’t force true love, just let it happen. Because young, true love is beautiful -- it lives even after the ship sinks and Jack dies.
“In dreams, we enter a world that’s entirely our own.”~Albus Dumbledore
In this world, you will be dared to dream. At times people may doubt or shatter your ambition, but expanding your mind and intellect to journeys unknown can sometimes surprise you, and unmask excellence you never knew existed.
“What are you prepared to do?” ~ Nick Fury
In life, we face obstacles and challenges on a day to day basis. It takes preparation, dedication, and faith to be the people we are set out to be. And remember, like the Avengers, there are always people that have your back.
“When nine hundred years old you reach, look as good, you will not, hmm?” ~ Yoda
Yoda might not look like much -- old, small, and green. Still he is the ultimate Jedi Master. So, don’t let your appearance, age, or social status bring down your confidence because it’s the strength of your mind that brings out the leader within. May the Force be with you.
Toy Story 3The Bachelor
Titanic The Avengers
star wars
Harry Potter
8 ID MAGAZINE
Clearly state your contactinformation at the top of your resume. Are you still using “[email protected]”? It’s time to get a Gmail account with your name or something more professional. You will
need it sooner or later, so get it now.
Proof reading is important!One tiny mistake can ruin allyour hard work. Have otherpeople read through the content of your paper and check for errors? You do not want a misspelling to stand in
the way of getting your dream job. Leaving the “L” out of “public relations” might cost you the interview.
Employers are looking for someone who can get their message across without too much “blablabla.” Be concise, but be specific. Use action-words like “established,” “organized,” or “completed.” For example:
At this point in the semester, Juniors and Seniors are all growing nervous
about their future. We are looking for jobs and connections that can help us after we graduate. Freshman and Sophomores, you are exploring the different ways to get involved and get experience to put on your resume.
Growing up in college is like a journey. Where it will take us no one knows for sure. We just know that at one point we will want to be successful and have a job that we enjoy doing. Today we hear so much about how the job market has tanked, and that is scary to hear as a college students, so we have to do the best we can to make ourselves desirable to win the internships and jobs we want. Now that summer is on its way, be productive and use your time to write a resume; if you have one already, start working on some more advanced techniques that will impress employers.
Every resume is different and everyone has their own preferences. However, there are some basic rules that apply to every successful resume.
Trust me, you are not thatexperienced or important to have your resume exceed one page. Coming straight out of college, your potential employer is not going to have time to flip through your resume. Cut it short and
grab their attention so you can get an interview, where you can brag about the information that would not fit on your resume.
WRO
NGRI
GHT
WRITING THE RESUME
1
2
3
4'Excellent organizational skills, implemented a digital filing system and transferred two years of company records to digital form.
'Excellent organizational skills.”
DESIGN LEIF JEPPSONSTORY JAZMIN RUBEL
A clean resume, an online presence, and good references are essential to getting the internship you want.
9spring 2013
Once you buy your URL, you need to place your head shot, best work, resume (in PDF format), photos, contact information and a biography on your website. Add your Twitter feed or your blog; this is where you show your
work and dedication to potential employers. Never underestimate the power of the first impression. Any sort of website speak for itself.
A strong social media presence helps you control what people find when employers Google you. Employers want to hire the next Mark Zuckerberg or the next J.K. Rowling, not the next Ke$ha or Snoop Dogg. Anything you put up on
Facebook and Twitter could, and will be used, against you. Always keep that mind.
ONLINE PRESENCESo you already have a resume, huh? Let’s move on to something a little more intermediate. In certain fields, a personal website displaying some of your work will impress any employer. Of course, an accounting major doesn’t need to get this fancy -- a calculator will do.
You might be too late, but you needto go out there and buy a URL.Everyone has a website these days, catch up with the trend. A YouTube channel, a blog, your Twitter account, a LinkedIn account; the more things with your name online, the more chances your
name will come up on the first page of Google searches. Buy your first name + last name.com if it is not already taken. This will help with search results and you will be one step ahead the competition. You can go through Godaddy, Google Sites or Word Press for about $20.
Opportunities are your best way to meet new people. Here at Simpson, they offer lots of events and opportunities to meet with alumni. Take those opportunities! Stop playing your x-box and walk to the Kent Center! This could be the
easiest connection you will ever make, and who knows? A job might come from it!
Use Social media. There are a lot of sites out there that can help you connect. LinkedIn is a great site used to connect in the work field. After personal recommendations, LinkedIn is one of the most cited sources by employers to find employees. With Facebook and Twitter you should be careful. You never know who can see your profiles or twitter feed. Keep it clean, and do not put stuff up that you would not want your grandma to see.
MAKING THE CONNECTIONTalking to professionals or even asking your professors for references can often be intimidating, but the people you know can often be your biggest asset. Expanding your contacts is the best way to work your way in the job market, no doubt about it.
Be genuine! Just be yourself and do not overwhelm the person. They have busy lives, just show your appreciation if you get the chance to talk to them. They do not owe you anything so do not act like it. They can tell when you are trying too hard and that makes you look
fake and desperate for a job.
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10 ID MAGAZINE
Simpson College seniors Jared Murphy
and Joel Schwichtenberg will start off
their summer with a music festival —
not as attendees, but performers.
Along with Chris Freier on guitar and
Matt Wilcox on drums, the guys will take
the Wakarusa stage as Mighty Shady, an
alternative rock band out of Des Moines.
With only a year in Central Iowa’s indie
Joel SCHWICHTENBERG Jared MURPHY Chris FREIERMatt WILCOX
THE COLLEGE MUSICIAN
BehindThe Scenes:
Simpson College has crafted an outstanding reputation for its
music program. But even outside the Department of Music, there are
some talented musicians singing, performing and making a name
for themselves around Simpson -- and elsewhere.
STORY BEN RODGERS & JAMES TILLISON
DESIGN LEIF JEPPSON
PHOTOS ALEJANDRO CABALLERO
11spring 2013
Mighty Shady
music scene, Mighty Shady has positioned
itself worthy of a spot at Wakarusa 2013,
a four-day music festival with over 20,000
attendees and prior host of big-name bands
like Mumford & Sons and The Black Keys.
Even though the idea of putting the band
together dates back to 2009, Mighty Shady
had it’s first official performance in February
2012. With original music, lyrics and a couple
of cover songs once in a while, Mighty Shady
had been gathering a group of fans across
some of Des Moines’ popular music venues --
including Wooly’s and Vaudeville Mews.
For these guys, making music is not just a
hobby anymore. The opportunity to pursue a
career in music is getting closer.
“We’ve had an insane amount of success
for being our first year,” said Murphy. “Every
other month it feels like we move up the
ladder, and it really helps having loyal fans
that support our shows.”
The band even has a few crazy-crowd
stories of its own. Most notably, the one with
the drunk girl.
“There was this one girl who ended up
getting a little drunk during one of our
shows,” said Freier. “She climbed up the stage,
knocked-down six microphones, tried to
dance with all of us, and tried to kiss me while
I was singing.”
That was the moment Mighty Shady
realized they were going to make it big.
You’ve probably listened to Mighty Shady
during one of their Simpson performances
at Jamnesty, the March Against the ISMS,
or the “Truth Be Told” concert earlier in the
semester. If you haven’t, grab a friend and
catch one of their live performances in Des
Moines because at the pace they are moving
you may have to buy an admission ticket next
time you hear about them.
“In five years, at the rate we are going, we want to be playing at major music festivals; maybe we won’t get to Coachella, but
we’ll be in a few posters for some national tours. ”
From left to right: Jared Murphy, Chris Freier, Matt Wilcox and Joel Schwichtenberg
12 ID MAGAZINE
Without a fancy recording studio or a sound engineer by his side, senior Billy Weathers lives up to the saying “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
“Most people always ask me if I go to a studio to record, but I don’t,” said Weathers. “I do it in my dorm room. I just close the door and tell people to not be loud.”
The first song Weathers recorded was in his friend’s room in Kresge — using the closet as a sound booth.
With only three years into his career, Weathers has produced two mix tapes, done
several performances at Simpson College and landed a couple of gigs at Vaudville
Mews in Des Moines.“My biggest accomplishment was
going from sitting in my dorm room in Buxton, and writing on my laptop, to actually having a show in Des Moines,” said Weathers.
But even before things started looking up for Weathers, he was only a teenager in high school with a thing for poetry.
“I started writing poetry my freshman year of high school, but I kept it to myself because I was always conscious that someone wouldn’t
think I was good or something,” said Weathers.
Although Weathers grew up, he struggled to overcome his fear of letting
people judge his talent. Still, by his freshman year of college, he did not feel
confident enough to show people his work.“I didn’t start showing anyone until my
sophomore or junior year in college,” said Weathers. “I remember I showed a couple of friends what I was doing and they told me I should start recording and getting [my work] out.” Weathers followed his friends’ advice, and things could not be better.
Weathers hopes to keep up with his music and use it to help make a difference in people’s lives.
“Whether it’s two people or two million, it doesn’t really matter to me. I just hope that someone can listen to my music, relate it to their life, see the positivity and see the motivation I’m trying to get across.
B-W
ell
Billy WEATHERS
“A lot of my raps have emotions behind them, I try to make it that way at least, and it’s just based off of things I’ve experienced in my life, people I’ve encountered, things I’ve learned and
hopefully taught and reflected towards others”
13spring 2013
DJ Franchize
For Jose “Junior” Rodriguez there is no better feeling as a disc jockey (DJ) than when the crowd loves the music he is spinning.
“It feels good,” said Rodriguez. “[People] are doing that because of me. It’s like you bring fuel to the club, and I’m the fuel — I’m fueling up the club while they’re dancing.”
Before becoming a DJ, Rodriguez would attend clubs in Chicago looking for some fun. Unfortunately, for Rodriguez’s taste, many of the DJ’s music would be off.
“Going to clubs and hearing other DJs perform... some of them were just bad. I hated that I was always complaining,” said Rodriguez. After some complaints, his father offered a fairly simple solution.
“My dad said, ‘If you don’t like the DJs in the club, why don’t you DJ?’” said Rodriguez. “I said OK, I’ll become a DJ.”
Rodriguez picked up the trade his freshman year of high school, shadowing experienced DJs and doing small house parties at first. A year later, during his sophomore year, a friend got Rodriguez his first real gig with over 600 guests at Lights Out Ent., a Chicago club celebrating its grand opening.
Junior RODRIGUEZ
Fast-forward to 2013 and Rodriguez is now at the top of his game, putting his talent to good use at Simpson, Mojos Bar and Drake University — to mention a few gigs. Rodriguez has built quite a reputation for himself as someone who tries to bring the nightlife experience to Simpson; he has performed in shows like the “Ugly Sweater” and the “Truth Be Told” concerts and most recently, PRSSA’s Goodwill Fashion Show.
With hopes of becoming a math teacher after graduation, Rodriguez still wants to DJ.
“Obviously, it’s just a hobby, but I feel like I’ve gotten enough exposure in the area that I feel like if I stick around after graduation, people will still ask me to DJ, and I don’t mind doing it.”
“It’s like you bring fuel to the club, and I’m the fuel — I’m fueling up the club while they’re dancing”
14 ID MAGAZINE
Jess
e All
en St
ewar
t
Jesse is a senior at Simpson, a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, manager and on-air talent for Simpson’s 88.9 KSTM, a multimedia journalism major with a music minor and a talented musician.
He has been playing guitar for ten years and singing even longer. He also plays the drums, a little bass and dabbles in piano and harmonica. For six years he has been writing his own music,
completing upwards of
30 to 40 songs in those six years.
The type of music he plays is his own type really.
He classifies it more towards the country/rock side, but it also has
elements of blues, pure country, pure rock, R&B and pop.
He performs all over, anything from bars to concert venues to colleges, backyard
parties, birthdays, and sorority and fraternity parties. He recently finished a tour with a band called Farm Rock, which traveled the Midwest. He got a call one day from Kendall Meyer, a former national recording artist, who Jesse has known for a while asking him to go out on a tour.
“We were touring around the Midwest pretty heavily for about a year and a half in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. I was actually lead guitar with them so I got a lot experience that way. Now I’m on tour doing the acoustic thing on my own,” said Jesse. If there is a group of people out there that want to hear him sing and play the guitar he will do his very best to put on a show for them.
Jesse has a busy show schedule in 2013 including opening for the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, famous for their song “Fishing In The Dark”, on June 8th. For more information on shows you can visit his website at www.jesseallenstewartmusic.com
Jesse STEWART
“My dad was a musician his whole life, I was the kid who kind of caught the bug.
I just loved music my whole life.”
15spring 2013
Shanice Whitney
Junior Shanice Whitney is one of those singers who can move people with her voice. Whether she makes people cry, smile or dance, there is always a reaction.
In the 4th grade, Whitney entered her first talent show. She performed “Fallin” by Alicia Keys, and people around her became obsessed with her voice. By the 5th grade, Whitney had her first solo as Suzy Snowflake and sang “Jingle Bells” with a huge, corny snowflake on her head for a Christmas concert. From that point forward, Whitney has never stopped singing.
“Singing has always been a part of everything — school, church, and family,” Whitney said. “Ever since I sang for the first time, people have always pushed me to try for American Idol and all those things, but I feel like it’s very far-fetched.”
Even though friends and family praise Whitney’s voice, she doesn’t seem interested in becoming the next R&B star like her idols Alicia Keys and Beyonce. In fact, she doesn’t even like to call attention to her talent because she sings out of mere pleasure.
Whitney is a regular at basketball and football games, singing the national anthem. She collaborates with senior Billy Weathers to put together a few shows throughout the year, like the “Truth Be Told” concert and the “Back to School Bash” party back in January.
“I like to sing because I hope people listen to the message of the songs, and when I perform I try to channel my inner Beyonce because I love her energy and stage presence,” Whitney said.
With a year left at Simpson, Whitney will keep singing as long as people continue to ask her because there is nothing else she’d rather do.
Shanice WHITNEY
“I like to sing because I hope people listen to the message of the songs, and
when I perform I try to channel my inner Beyonce because I love her energy and
stage presence,”
16 ID MAGAZINE
BRIEF PERIODS OF EXTENDED SUNSHINE MEAN SUMMER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!
In case you haven’t noticed, summers are
getting hotter every year – or at least they
appear to be.
According to the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, the US had its
third warmest summer in 2012 with July as
the hottest month of the season. The second
warmest summer happened in 2011, while
the only summer warmer than the last two
occurred in 1936.
Whether you are planning on visiting the
warm, exotic beaches of Mexico or simply
going on a road trip across the US, you want
to stay cool and dress for the heat waves
coming your way.
So, why not welcome the summer with a
new outfit or two? If you are looking for some
summer fashion, Indianola’s got a store for
you – the fashion conscious college student
with a twenty-something attitude. Located
in 1214 N Jefferson Way, Maurices has
everything you need for your casual meetings,
job interviews, or breezy walks of the
summer. If you are not feeling like driving or
buying on-line, take a walk to the store and
create your own summer outfit.
By
photos By: Alejandro Caballero
summerlooksIndianola’s
17spring 2013
On Kara: Yellow Polka Dot Dress $34 | Brown Purse $29 | Brown Wedges w/ Buckle $34
On Kelsey: Orange Striped Dress $34 | Sunglasses $12 | Orange Bracelet $14 | Brown Wedges $39
18 ID MAGAZINE
On Leah: Black Lace Bootie $44 | Green Blazer $49 | Black Lace Skirt $32 | Blue & Green Stripped Tank $26
19spring 2013
On Nuria: Nude Heels $30 | Blue Blazer $50 | White Sequin Tank $24 | Black Huffle Skirt $29
20 ID MAGAZINE
On Kelsey: Blue Zip-up Jacket $34 | Shorts $29 | Gray Purse $34 | Silver Necklace $10 | Colored Stripe Top $24
21spring 2013
On Kara: Maurices Capris $39 | Scarf $14 | Blue Flats w/ White Bow $24 | Light Denim Shirt $29 | Orange Polka Dot Tank $18 | Blue and White Striped Purse $24
22 ID MAGAZINE
meet the man behind the desk By: Kelsey Hagelberg & Alejandro CaballeroPhotos : Alejandro CaballeroDesign : Jake Barr
Jay K. Simmons will become Simpson’s 23rd president this summer. We decided to sit down and talk about his joys in life and expectations at Simpson before taking office.
23spring 2013
What is your favorite band or music genre? Jazz and Rock n’ Roll probably. I grew up on
Rock n’ Roll, and I enjoy some of the old guys in Jazz like John Coltrane and Miles Davis.
Do you play any musical instruments?Last time I picked up an instrument was in
my sophomore year in college, so I can’t say I play anymore.
Do you have a favorite book?That’s a tough question; I have a lot of
favorite books. In fiction, maybe one of my favorites could be The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell. I love Les Mis; I think that may be my single favorite novel. I am a great Charles Dickens fan too.
Do you watch a lot of movies?Not as many as I would like, but I do enjoy
watching movies. “Lincoln” was very powerful, but in terms of all-time movie favorites, I am a great fan of “Casablanca” and I have always enjoyed Stanley Kubrick’s films, particularly “Space Odyssey”.
What is your drink of choice?My biggest vice is that I drink far too much
coffee every day. For my 50th birthday, my sister, my wife and brother-in-law gave me this wonderful Belgium-manufactured coffee maker with a massive heating element, and it’s just like having French press coffee every day. It’s terrific!
What is your favorite pastime?
I guess it’s riding my motorcycle. If I have an opportunity to hop on the bike and just go for a few days that’s just perfect -- I’ve ridden coast to coast a couple of times.
What kind of bike do you have?A sports-touring bike Honda St1300 Do you have a bike collection?
(Laughing) No! I wish I had one, but Mrs. Simmons would not be too thrilled about that.
What is one of your talents? I like to think I have an ability to listen to
what people are trying to tell me when working through a problem, although there may be those who will disabuse me of that notion as well.
Any crazy, memorable college stories you want to share with students? Oh, gosh. Well, let’s see... (struggling to recall).
Is it time for a “Reader’s Discretion Advised” notice?(Laughing) [College] was a great experience.
I went to Birmingham-Southern College, a place very similar to Simpson. It was there where I joined the Theta Chi fraternity and met my wife.
How did you meet her?She invited me to a sorority party where
women were supposed to invite the guys. But, for some reason the party was canceled -- I didn’t know. I was a junior, and she was in her first year. One day I was walking into the dining hall and she saw me, so I started walking towards her and she just turned around and walked off. I though “This is odd. What have I done?” So, I caught up with her later in the day and said “What is going on? I thought we needed to talk about when to pick you up for the party?” She gathered the courage and told me “Well, it’s canceled and we don’t have a date anymore...” Then I got nervous. I said “Well, maybe we could do something else.”
We ended up going to a movie,but the film broke in the middle of the movie; so we just had a great talk sitting in our semi-lighted theater while we waited on the film to repair. And we’ve been together ever since.
What were you doing prior to your presidency?I was Vice President for Academic Affairs at
LaGrange College, another Methodist affiliated institution just outside Atlanta, for 11 years. Prior to that, for about 18 to 19 months, I was in Cleveland, Ohio, at Cuyahoga Community College, an institution with 24,000 students.
What is your favorite part of your job as college president?
I loved being a VP for Academic Affairs because I had a chance to work with the faculty and make sure they had what they needed to work with their students. But, my favorite part was being in the classroom; I taught a class at least once a year and I have missed that as a president. So, I’ve had to find other ways to work with students. I find joy in making sure faculty and staff are given the resources needed to help our students realize their potential while they are here because I know how important that was to me when I was in college.
What do you like most about Simpson so far?I may answer that question with two things,
actually. One of them is the sense of community and the appreciation that I have seen made manifest through students, faculty, staff and trustees. There is a regard and a commitment to this place you just don’t find everywhere. That is very appealing to me because it is the same kind of community, shared goals and purpose I experienced when I was in college.
The second aspect I find most appealing is the mission of Simpson College, an institution that is very much grounded in understanding the purpose of a liberal arts and sciences college -- not only a preparation for a career, but for living a fulfilling life in which we can become better citizens and serve a community. Simpson teaches students to go beyond earning a good salary and realize that we as human beings have an obligation to care for one another and help each other realize our goals as a community.
How do you plan to strengthen that sense of community at Simpson?
There are a few things I’d like to do. I’ll be at SGA meetings whenever invited. I’d like to be down in the dining hall, have lunch with students a few times every semester and listen to what is going on. I want to be visible, available and in the places where students are so we create those opportunities to talk.
presidentsimmonsjay
24 ID MAGAZINE
What is your favorite Simpson College memory?
There are a couple of days, but certainly one of my favorite days in my life at Simpson College was the opening of the Kent Campus Center. It was a wonderful celebration of the work of so many people to bring to completion such a wonderful addition to campus.
Also our 150th celebration, the day I was
able to announce the four million dollar gift that made that project possible. It was a great day for me. Both of those days will live in my memory for a very long time.
Do you remember your first day as president at Simpson?
I do remember my first day, but the second day was actually more memorable because I welcomed new students in the early summer orientation to campus. It was great to be welcoming the new students that I’d be sharing the next four years with. And again, one that I will remember forever.
8By: Ben Rodgers Photos: Alejandro Caballero Design: Jake Barr
Great Years
After announcing his resignation last April, President John Byrd will be retiring at the end of this academic year. Byrd led our campus through some meaningful changes during his eight years
of service at Simpson College; Byrd stated that the accomplishments the school achieved during his presidency were not only his accomplishments but a community effort.
“There’s very few things that I did, they were very much a community approach, a team approach to what we’re doing,” said Byrd. “Any accomplishments while I’ve been here have been because of lots of people.” Byrd stated he was very proud of the work the faculty has done in his time here, for instance creating the Engaged Citizen curriculum.
“This was a huge undertaking, and our faculty did a beautiful job rethinking our curriculum from top to bottom, but keeping a strong liberal arts emphasis, but really working hard to understand what the world is asking for from our graduates and making sure it’s delivered in our curriculum.
One of the biggest accomplishments may be marked by the building and opening of the long awaited Kent Campus Center, a project that took almost a decade to complete and now serves as the campus living room for current and upcoming students.
After eight years, has Simpson changed you in any way?
Absolutely, every president arrives thinking that part of their job is to shape the future of the institution, and what you find out is that the institution shapes you. And clearly all the values that have guided Simpson College for the last 153 years now have shaped me as well. In many other ways I am the same, but Simpson has had a profound impact on my life.
Any last words or advice for Simpson students?
My best advice for college students is to take advantage of everything available to them and stretch their college experience right to the limit. You will never have an opportunity again in your life that is quite so full of different things to try and experience.
Have you given any thought about what you want to after leaving Simpson?
I haven’t given a lot of thought to it because I am entering a whole new stage of my life and I am not exactly sure what it is going to be like. I think I will wait, experience it and let it evolve.
Ei ht
25spring 2013
“My best advice for college students is to take advantage of
everything available to them and stretch their college experience
right to the limit.”~ President Byrd
26 ID MAGAZINE
DESIGN LEIF JEPPSONSTORY STEFFI LEE
Recent and upcoming college graduates
face ongoing anxiety about employment
opportunities. The fear of finding nothing
else than a minimum wage job hunts our
thoughts all the way through graduation.
According to the Bureau of Labor
Statistics, the current unemployment rate
resides at 7.8 percent. National data for
the unemployment percentage for college
graduates under 25 show that the labor market
is still struggling. As of June 2012, college
graduates face an unemployment rate of 8.5
percent; however, some majors are more
employable in today’s market when compared
to others. This causes students to question
their studies, and makes them wonder if
attending college is even worth it. Luckily, the
statistics from the rest of the nation are not
representative of Simpson College. Simpson
has molded students into becoming successful
in Iowa and across the nation. The liberal arts
curriculum has pushed students beyond their
comfort zones. From a senior vice president at
the Principal Financial Group to a director of
college scouting for the Portland Trail Blazers,
alumni from Simpson ultimately secure careers
with rewarding experiences and challenges.
A report from CNN Money shows the
average college student now graduates with
around $27,000 in student loan debt.
Students need to neglect these reports, or
take it with a grain of salt. They need to forget
the articles about how Jane Doe is working two
minimum wage jobs to simply make ends meet
or to pay off her student loan debt. They need
to realize that resources for success and living
comfortably after graduation are available.
They’re all there. Debt and temporary
unemployment are never easy, but a financial
commitment to an institution like Simpson is
well worth it.
Recent Simpson graduate Katie Anthony
was always active in her duration at Simpson.
She served as the Editor-in-Chief for The
Simpsonian and held multiple internships.
Anthony was a Multimedia Journalism major
and an English minor who knew how to
combat the thought of a crisis looming after
you walk the stage.
“It’s a tough economy, but if you really
want that job and if you’re determined to get
NICOLE MULDER JAMES CHOUNRAMANYKATIE ANTHONY
Graduation: Spring 2012
Major(s): Biology
EMployMEnt: Lab assist. in the Microbiology and Immunobiology Department at Harvard Medical School
Graduation: Spring 2012
Major(s): Biology
Minor(s): Chemistry, Psychology, Ethics
EMployMEnt: Lab assistant at JMI Laboratories
Graduation: Spring 2012
Major(s): Multimedia Journalism
Minor(s): English
EMployMEnt: Former Employee at Meredith Corporation
JESSICA MALLOW
Graduation: Spring 2012
Major(s): Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance
Minor(s): Marketing
EMployMEnt: Executive Assistant to the CEO at Orchestra Iowa
BLAISE MIKELS
Graduation: Spring 2012
Major(s): Mathematics, Computer Science
Minor(s): Economics, Ethics
EMployMEnt: U.S. Government
ADVICE FROMLIFE AFTER COLLEGE
SIMPSON GRADUATES
27spring 2013
that job or get into
that particular school
– then fight for it,”
Anthony said. “Fight
until someone pays
attention to you and
you don’t give up
until they do. You’ll get there; it just may not
happen as soon as you want it to.
And that’s fine.”
During her time at Simpson, Anthony
interned at the The Village in Indianola, and
credits successful interviews to this experience.
“I was told at my interview that what
stood out on my resume was my internship
with The Village in Indianola – it was brief, it
was unpaid and it was hard work, but clearly
paid off in the end,” Anthony said.
James Chounramany is also an alumnus
of Simpson College. He graduated in the
Spring of 2012 with a major in Biology, and
minors in Chemistry, Psychology and Ethics.
Chounramany currently works as a lab
assistant at JMI Laboratories; however, he was
offered a position as a research assistant at the
University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
early in February.
Chounramany struggled when searching
for a job, but was able to overcome due to
skills he obtained from Simpson.
“The most difficult thing that I came
across in searching for a job was getting invited
for an interview. With the economy being the
way it is, you are competing with more people
for a job. Sometimes it is difficult to make
your application stand out,” Chounramany
said. “Another difficulty I had was my lack
of previous real-world work experience in
the field of my choice. Many of the jobs I
applied to required past experience in the
field. Unfortunately, lack of experience may
preclude you from getting an interview.”
Chounramany strongly believes that
internships during a student’s undergraduate
studies are beneficial for the future, but also
credits Simpson for his current success.
“I overcame my experience by relating
skills I had practiced at Simpson and things
I had learned through coursework to the job
and conveyed it very well in an interview,”
Chounramany explained.
Anthony explains she was blessed enough
to graduate debt-free.
“I worked hard enough in high school
and applied for enough grants and scholarships
that I ended up graduating debt-free – with
help from my parents, of course. That being
said, I know many people who have a vast
financial commitment to Simpson,” Anthony
said. “I know that people will be paying their
loans back for years – and I know that they
regret nothing.”
For Anthony and Chaunramany,
attending a small,
liberal arts school
was not a burden,
but a pleasure.
Education was a
priority, and their
time at Simpson paid
off for the future.
Yes, the economy is poor, but the
economy is no excuse to graduate college with
no direction or idea of what to do.
Simpson has long instilled the value of
internships and outside experiences, and both
Anthony and Chaunramany have reinforced
this mentality. So, you who attend a private,
liberal arts college, ignore these Debbie
Downer articles; focus on yourself and take
advantage of every single resource at Simpson.
Network and get your voice heard. Professors
at Simpson understand how you feel and will
help you move forward -- they were in your
shoes at some point, trust them. You’ll be fine.
- katie Anthony
Fight until someone pays attention to you and you don’t give up until they do. You’ll get there; it just may not happen as soon as you want it to.
Student
Loan Debt
Liberal arts College
Employment
Q&ASTATS
In depth question and answer with simpson graduates...
Next
Stats you want to know before you graduate...
26
28
28 ID MAGAZINE
Q&AQ Were you able to find a job right
after graduation? How long did it take to get your first job?
WHAT IS YOUR opinion on the belief that attending an expensive, private, liberal arts school is a waste of time and money? Q
Did you do any internships while studying at Simpson? Q
Katie Anthony: I challenge you to find professors that care about you enough to still check in on you after you graduate to make sure you’re still
doing okay. Personally, I think you’re wasting money by going to a state school—and both of my siblings went to a state school. If you want to go
to college to learn, to be challenged and to grow as a person—a liberal arts education is the
place for you. The people who are teaching and working at a private college are there because
they believe in the system—believe me, they’re not getting paid enough. If you’re under the
impression that college is a time to party and blow off classes for four years, then maybe you
should consider a state school so that you can waste your time and money.
Blaise Mikels: I disagree with the statement that private, liberal arts schools are a waste of
money. My experience at Simpson College provided me with classroom and extracurricular
opportunities that would have been much more difficult to have at a larger college or university.
The various forms of educational institutions have advantages and disadvantages that students
should evaluate to determine if the higher costs of private colleges are worth it to them.
Katie Anthony: It took me 17 days, from walking across the stage at graduation to
accepting my first job. I had started applying for positions in November of 2011 and
had gone through a couple of rejections, a few interviews and was close to job offers
from other newspapers—but ultimately they all “decided to go a different direction.”
Rejection always feels like salt in an open wound, especially when you’re close to getting the job. If you think you’re just going to waltz in to a
business and get the job, you’re in for a harsh reality check—it’s not that easy.
Nicole Mulder: I was offered two positions shortly before I graduated; I started my current job two weeks after graduation. The whole process of
applying and interviewing took a few months to complete.
James Chounramany: I was able to find a job as a microbiology lab assistant about a month
after graduation.
James Chounramany: I would say that although private liberal arts colleges cost more than
public universities there is value in the extra costs. The value comes from how much easier it
is for your professors to get to know you. Which is important when a student goes to ask for a
professor to write a letter of recommendation or be a professional reference.
Jessica Mallow: I was able right away! I had been singing a cabaret show with the Orchestra
in Cedar Rapids, when the CEO of Orchestra Iowa approached me about an opening they had
on staff. I was hired as the Executive Assistant at Orchestra Iowa immediately after graduation.
Jessica Mallow: It is not a waste of time or money at all. Every college experience is different
for every person. Simpson College prepared me for life, for the real world, and made me ready
to take on absolutely anything. It taught me how to make my own opportunities, and investing
time and money in your own education is never a mistake. You will always take from it what
you put into it.
It is not the same for everybody. You cannot predict when life will throw you a curve ball, but to a certain degree you can prepare yourself and plan ahead while in college. Learn from experiences of recent Simpson grads.
Life After Graduation...
Nicole Mulder: During my junior year
at Simpson, I worked as a Developmental
Biology research assistant with Dr.
Brittingham. We were studying the effects
of Wnt signaling during the regeneration
of Nematostella vectensis, a starlet sea
anemone.During the summer between my
junior and senior year, I volunteered as a
global health fellow with Unite for Sight in
Tamale, Ghana. Working with a team of
students and physicians in Ghana, I helped to
provide reading glasses and cataract surgery to
thousands of patients who do not have access
to healthcare.
29spring 2013
How many job applications do you think you filled out while you were a Senior?
QIf any, what were some difficulties after graduation? How did you overcome those issues?
With your experience in the "real world," what is the best advice you can give for upcoming grads?
Q
Q
Blaise Mikels: Probably the most surprising difficulty I had after graduation was simply adjusting
to full-time employment. I miss the free time that I had during college, but it’s nice to be making
money now rather than spending it on tuition!
Katie Anthony: To begin with, the experience was really disheartening—or at least I thought. I
graduated in April and I was offered this position in May (due to personal reasons, though, I didn’t
start until end of June). I thought like a complete failure for not having a job when I graduated—I
graduated and moved back into the basement of my parents’ home—literally. That’s, of course, the
stereotypical nightmare for college graduates and I was living it. I worked really hard in college—I studied instead of partied most of the time—and I
felt cheated that I was graduating without a job. In hindsight, I may have been overreacting a little bit…or a lot.
Jessica Mallow: It’s great to have a plan in mind for yourself, but the best thing you can do is keep an open mind about the future, and know that
life truly is an open book. Embrace every instance to make your own opportunities, and follow through with new connections that you make.
Networking is so important!
Blaise Mikels: I don’t know that I have much advice for upcoming graduates. If I had to pick something though, I would tell them to shoot for the
stars. Identify your passion and search for employment opportunities that you would really enjoy, disregarding any doubts you might have of your
ability to obtain the positions. Apply to some of those positions, and then find other less ambitious positions to apply to for backups.
Blaise Mikels: While I was waiting to find out if I was going to be accepted for full-time
employment with the agency that I interned with, I applied to an insurance company in Des
Moines for a position as an actuary. As I knew I would be choosing between those two positions,
they were the only job applications I submitted as a senior. Most of my job applications
during my time at college were submitted during my sophomore year, when I applied to
three universities for mathematics research
positions, three insurance companies, and
three government agencies.
Nicole Mulder: I would estimate that I filled
out between ten and fifteen applications.
The majority of those were complete early to
middle of the semester before I graduated.
Katie Anthony: I would say that I applied to
around a dozen jobs near the end of the Spring
semester senior year.
Jessica Mallow: Actually, none. I filled out
several graduate school applications, however.
I applied to several different schools, was
accepted and had decided to pursue my Masters
in Voice Performance. I later declined graduate
school when the perfect job actually found me,
with the right connections.
James Chounramany: I would say that I
applied to around a dozen jobs near the end of
the Spring semester senior year.
James Chounramany: My two pieces of advice are to build strong relationships with people who you will use as a reference, either personal
or professional, and to utilize the knowledge of people around you. My personal references were contacted before I received a job offer, a strong
endorsement goes a long way. Also, I looked for advice in relation to my resume, cover letter, and interviewing skills. Career services and my
professors were helpful with this.
30 ID MAGAZINE
STATSThere is no doubt a Bachelor’s degree is worth it. Research shows that a graduate degree pays
off with greater employability and earnings. However, not all college degrees are created equal.
Some of us decide to pursue the sciences, while some others decide to take on the arts. And as
you probably know, the risk of unemployment is directly correlated
to a student’s major. The following graph illustrates
research from the Georgetown University
Center on Education and the
Workforce on unemployment
and earnings for recent
college students.$10,000
5%
10%
15%
$20,000
$30,000
$40,000
$50,000
$60,000
Unemployment rate Median Salary
Agriculture and natural resourcesScience Life/Physical
Humanities and Liberal Arts
Communications, Journalism
Computers and MathamaticsEducation
Engineering
Law and Public PolicySocial Science
HealthArts
Business
UNEMPLOYMENT RATES & Earnings BY MAJORS
RESEARCH | CONNER JUILFS
“The education, Healthcare, Business and professional Services industries have been the most stable employers for recent college graduates.”
31spring 2013
28%
$500-$749
$22
x2
of single adults in iowa earn less than the $12.01 per hour required to meet basic needs.
cost of using hulu & netflix per month(get an hdmi cable and you can pretend you have cable)
estimate cost of renting an apartment in iowa
the average earnings of a bachelor’s degree-holder remains nearly twice as much as those of a
worker with only a high school diploma.
estimate monthly transportation expense for owning and operating a car in iowa
$567
NUMBERS YOU MIGHT WANT TO KNOW...
11 1243 366
557980 0
SOURCES: United States Census Bureau, The Iowa Policy Project, The Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, and Forbes.
SIMPSON STUDENT SURVEY
Top
10 M
ajor
s at
sim
pson
From a poll of 100 participants, we were able to gather some thoughts
regarding higher education. Although the following numbers reflect the
opinion of a small portion of Simpson’s student body, the numbers reveal a
positive attitude towards college over all.
YesNo
41%59%
Have you ever questioned the value of higher education?
Do you regret your financial investment to attend college?
What is your perception of the current job market?
Is college helping you grow intellectually?
Do you feel college is helping you grow and mature as a person?
Are you planning to further your education after college?
Are you confident that your major is taking you where you want to be after graduation?
How satisfied are you with your choice of major?
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
It looks bad
Yes, absolutely
Not Satisfied
It seems OK
No
Somewhat satisfied
It looks very welcoming
Need more time to tell
Very Satisfied
11%89%
24%
52%
2%
71%
11%
31%
5%
37%
67%
5%
6%
43.9%
95%
94%
56.1%
ManagementElementary Ed
15Number of students with declared Major (both full-time and Part-time)
45 75 105 135 165 195
BiologyMathematicsPsychologyEnglishInt Mktg CommMarketing
HistoryCIS
Accounting