utLook STUDENT PRESSO Vol. 44 Issue 2 August 29, 2011 Facebook.com/Outlookpress

Starting this fall, students will be paying more to attend the College.

On May 19, 2011, the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees voted to raise the cost of coming to the college by $150 per semester, effective this fall.

As a result, full-time students will pay $1907.50 per semester, representing an 8.5 percent increase over last year’s $1757.50. Part-time students have a slightly smaller increase of $12 per credit, or 8.2 percent change (from $146 to $158 a credit).

The increase in tuition comes as the state cuts its financial support of the SUNY system because of the economy. SUNY

Chancellor Nancy Zimpher has advocated changes to the system, like allowing tuition increases on a campus by campus basis, in order to maintain the excellence of the SUNY system in the face of tighter budgets.

“We must ensure access AND success. It is not only a matter of SUNY’s responsibility to create opportunities for individual students, or even of its ability

to drive the economic future of this state. The quality of our teaching, research, and service must remain paramount if we are to realize positive outcomes or results,” she testified to the Legislature recently.

Students had strong reactions to the new tuition rate—once they knew about the increase.

SEE TUITION PAGE 2

Tuition Rises for Fall 2011 Semester

This recipe for grainless granola will ensure

that your semester is a healthy one.

“An unhealthy diet doesn’t have to be a consequence of a new semester, for a healthy body is

key to maintaining the energy you need.”

Monica Powell, Student

Science 9

Volunteer Firefighters EligibleFor Lower Tuition

With the federal grant program Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response, or SAFER, some volunteer firefighters can attend Rockland Community College tuition-free.

The goal of the grant is to recruit and retain volunteer firefighters at SUNY Rockland. It has $50,000 to use each year in total. The money is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and is not need-based (if the student receives other financial aid, though, the amount they get

is subtracted from their SAFER reimbursement).

The amount reimbursed is not dependent on the volunteer’s full-time or part-time status, nor on what they are studying. Rather, the reimbursement amount is connected with their grades: a firefighter with an “A” average is allowed full reimbursement, one with a “B” average gets 85 percent of the tuition reimbursed, a ”C” student gets 75 percent back, and a “D” student 50 percent.

After leaving SUNY Rockland, students who accepted the reimbursements must work

SEE FIREFIGHTER PAGE 3

SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher (left) recently announced her “NYSUNY 2020” plan, designed to standardize the ways that SUNY campuses can raise tuition.

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Rebecca GrossNews editor

“Making the most of the breaks in between classes means

being open to new people and impressions, and getting past the

fear of being awkward or uncomfortable.”

Shara Beitch, Student

FeatureS 4

Classes, clubs, work—and then there’s the time between your classes to

think about.

“A common criticism of British Sci-Fi is that it often has a

lower budget than its American counterpart, but this is in no

way a bad thing.”

Elizabeth Maze, Student

Style 7

Thankfully, British science fiction television

shows are all the rage in America, too.

Rebecca GrossNews Editor

Costs of attending college are rising across the SUNY system

NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION: Hundreds of new students attended the day-long orientation on August 24, which featured a live reggae band.

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News2 August 29, 2011

Writing Center Rolling Out Changes

This fall, students can expect some changes at the Writing Center, which is getting a new name and some additional services to help students do everything from scheduling an appointment to documenting an essay.

Instead of the Writing Center, the center will now be called the Reading and Writing Center (RWC). In its new incarnation, the RWC will expand its services to offer even more academic support to the student body. As the new name suggests, students of all disciplines are encouraged to come to the RWC for help not just with their writing assignments, but with any difficulties they may have with reading.

With all of these new improvements, the RWC will be an even greater resource for students who need help improving their writing and reading skills, said Dr. Katherine Lynch, the Center’s director.

“The Reading and Writing Center (RWC) is a place where RCC students have the chance to speak with someone one-on-one about their reading and writing tasks. This kind of individualized experience is invaluable to anyone at any stage of an assignment,” Dr. Lynch said.

Dr. Lynch, Instructor of English, runs the RWC, selects and trains the staff, and gets the word out to the RCC community about what the RWC is, and what it offers.

In addition to the new services, scheduling an appointment will be made easier through the use of a new piece of software called TutorTrac. Instead of having to call the RWC or come in to have

others make an appointment, students can now make it themselves online.

Students don’t even have to actually come to the Reading and Writing Center for assistance, however, since another service offered this fall is online tutoring for students. This program, designed for people who are unable to attend a live session, allows students to submit a piece of writing through the RCC Website. They will receive email feedback from a tutor within two days with comments on the paper.

For those more concerned with one specific topic, such as documentation or commas, the RWC has another new way to handle this. It will be offering workshops mid-semester on a number of relevant topics, such as grammar, MLA and APA documentation, and research papers.

There may be many changes going on at the Reading and Writing Center, but its philosophy will remain constant. Tutors help guide the writer in the development of their ideas and the structure of their piece, but the writers always makes their own final decisions and chooses for themselves how to alter the paper.

The tutor only acts as a peer, whose advice can be used or ignored. In this way, the tutoring philosophy of the RWC is non-hierarchical, and allows the student to develop his or her ideas in a natural fashion, a method designed to facilitate immense growth in the student’s understanding of the writing process.

Lois Williams, an adjunct faculty consultant, feels that this approach is beneficial for both the student and the tutor.

“Each session I gain a little knowledge

from another of a variety of disciplines studied at RCC,” she said. “I leave each day knowing something that I was unaware of before working with a student.”

With the new name and services but the

same approach, Dr. Lynch says that the Reading and Writing Center fills a need. “Every writer needs a reader, and every reader can benefit from conversation about their texts.”

Peter VeyStaff Writer

New services include help with reading, online scheduling, and online tutoring

TUITION FROM PAGE 1

Not many of the students interviewed for this article were aware of the increase, or the Board of Trustees vote authorizing it.

The hikes were necessary to pass the 2011-2012 Rockland Community College budget, which the trustees discussed immediately after the tuition resolution. The $65,158,660 budget was passed by both the Board of Trustees and the Rockland Country Legislature. Salaries account for 59 percent of the budget, and employee benefits are another 26.76 percent.

As sophomore Brianna Robinson said, “I probably should know more about [the increases] than I do. I don’t think it’s a good idea. One of the appeals of a community college is its price. If you start increasing the tuition then the appeal will start to decrease as well…. RCC has been a refuge, almost, for people who couldn’t afford to go to a four-year school right away. I know that I thought it was the better option because of the great honors program and the price. Such a good education for not so high a price was awesome to me,” she said.

Although they might not be happy about the increase, others said that the increases were necessary due to the growth in enrollment, and the budget cuts from the state and SUNY, stemming from the poor economy.

Sophomore Mike Fleischmann, who knew of the tuition hike, described it as understandable.

“In this economy everybody is hurting,” he said. “These are to be expected if the state isn’t going to pitch in all it should.”

Executive Vice President Mort Meyers pointed out that even with the increases, RCC tuition is still comparatively low. RCC currently ranks 32nd for in-state tuition rates, and 65th for out-of-state total costs.

“Even with the significant cut back in state aid, RCC has the lowest tuition rate in the region,” Meyers said. “Our tuition is lower than Ulster, Sullivan, Orange, Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk.”

Meyers also explained how the state has cut its funding for SUNY in recent years, forcing campuses to find new ways to fund their operations.

“Although it is correct that RCC receives government funding, it is important to understand what has happened to State funding since 2007-2008…The overall budget impact of the reductions in state aid over the past five years has reduced the percentage of the budget supported by the state to 23.32 percent of total net operating costs,” he said.

If the state had kept its funding levels even at the 2007-2008 levels, Meyers said, the tuition hikes would not have been necessary.

Additionally, even with the cuts, some

of SUNY Rockland tuition is subsidized by others. Rockland County, for example, pays for at least 24 percent, or $16 million, of the budget.

Without government funding, the cost to students would be higher, Meyers said, even with the tuition hikes. If students had to cover the entire budget with their tuition, they’d have to pay approximately $4,000 per semester, more than double what county residents do, and even more than what out-of-state students pay.

The motion to raise tuition, by Trustee Shapiro, and seconded by Trustee Wortendyke, approved the increase. Trustee Rizvi abstained, Trustee Kohlhausen voted “nay,” but Trustees Voigt, Wortendyke, Dillon, Oelkers-Ramos, Shapiro, Osinga, Clinkscale all voted yea, so the motion passed.

“Especially in this economy [the hikes are inappropriate]. Paychecks are not rising in relation to the price of things and people are having a really hard time. Jobs are scarce as well,” Robinson said. “Tuition is still really low, but if they increase it this year does that mean they can increase it next year and the next?”

“Part of the reason we’re looking into RCC is the price. As a state-funded community college, and with the bad economy, I think it’s their duty to keep tuition low,” one prospective parent commented.

Tuition Rises $150 for the TermJo

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Tom Della Torre (L), Director of Academic Support Services, and Dr. Katherine Lynch (R), Director of the Reading and Writing Center.

In July, the Rockland Shakespeare Company celebrated their 14th year presenting outdoor summer Shakespeare productions by staging “The Tempest,” which many experts believe to be the

last play the Bard wrote alone, in the Amphitheater Courtyard at SUNY Rockland Community College.

RSC productions get better each year, and many felt that the company’s continued devotion to presenting these works made “The Tempest” their most enjoyable performance yet.

The play, written c. 1610, has a complex plot that revolves around Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan, and his daughter, Miranda. Twelve years before the play begins, Prospero’s brother, Antonio – aided by Alonso, the King of Naples – stole power in Milan. He exiled Prospero and Miranda, having the two taken to sea and set adrift in a rickety boat. They survived and landed on an island filled with spirits and magic.

As the play opens, fate has brought Antonio and Alonso near the island aboard a ship. Assisted by his servant, an airy spirit named Ariel, Prospero raises

a storm – a tempest – which shipwrecks the two, along with members of their respective courts – including the king’s son, Ferdinand – on the island. With the help of Ariel and various other spirits – and despite the opposition of Caliban, a savage slave who serves Prospero – the duke is restored to power, Ferdinand falls in love with Miranda, and, as Shakespeare writes elsewhere, all’s well that ends well.

Over the last 13 years, co-directors – and RSC co-founders – Christopher Plummer and Patty Maloney-Titland, Chair of the RCC Performing Arts Department, have used various themes and settings in staging the plays – “Hamlet” set in feudal Japan, “The Merry Wives of Windsor” set in the American old west, and “Love’s Labour’s Lost” as a musical, to name a few.

This year, however, the two decided on a “non-theme” theme. In other words: they played it straight. The audience benefited from this decision. Without the distraction of wild costumes or music, the audience became immersed in the language of the play.

As Plummer wrote in his Director’s Note, “The heart of this production is in the words and the strength of the characters who speak them.”

Plummer and Maloney-Titland cast the play following three days of auditions, and the group spent four weeks rehearsing.

“The RSC always mounts productions

very quickly,” Plummer said. “We erected “The Tempest” in only four weeks, with an average of three to four rehearsals per week.”

The directors selected their actors well. Despite the limited rehearsal schedule, the cast delivered the excellence audiences have come to expect from the RSC. According to the audience, each actor seemed perfectly suited for the role they played.

Stavros Adamides portrayed Prospero with superb gravity. He delivered his lines, including the two most important speeches in the play – “Our revels now are ended,” and the epilogue – flawlessly.

Stephen Truax – in his largest speaking role to date – was the King of Naples. As the role required, he displayed a far wider range of emotions than in his previous RSC appearances.

Plummer played Caliban with energy, skill, and unmasked zeal. His bitter and yet still fun portrayal was reminiscent of Gollum in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy of films.

Malka Wallick, a fresh member of the Royal Shakespeare Company, portrayed Miranda admirably. She exuded the wonderful, child-like innocence of one inexperienced in the wide world in general, much less the sordid world of politics and betrayal.

Theodora Kimmel, the other newcomer, seemed to steal the show as Ariel. While her appearance – she was covered from head to toe in pale blue material and make-up – made her stand out from the rest of the cast visually, it was Kimmel’s

movements, her voice, and her confidence that commanded every eye while she was on stage.

According to Kimmel, she was not even the first choice to play Ariel. “The part was originally given to someone else

and then they dropped out,” she said.It seems that there could not have been

a more serendipitous withdrawal. Kimmel was outstanding in a role that – while not the largest – connects all the action in the play by aiding Prospero in his quest to bring the rest of the cast under his power, thus allowing him to regain his dukedom.

The actors were more than ably supported by the crew behind the scenes. Maggie O’Rourke (make-up), Karen Hummel-Kinsley (costume design), and Ebonie Avant (movement choreographer) did an exceptional job helping to create the characters the audience saw.

Although the first show was rained-out, the group presented five performances between July 9 and July 17.

Attendance was, “very consistent,” according to Plummer, with audiences of more than 100 at each performance.

Plummer thanked those who attended the shows for their continuing enthusiasm for the RSC. “There is nothing like the electric connection between an actor and their audience,” he said.

This was a sentiment echoed by Kimmel. “What would Shakespeare be without his loves?” she asked. “What would performances be without a sensitive and appreciative audience?”

“We are extremely passionate about the RSC and performing the works of Shakespeare for the community. I am very proud of what we have accomplished over the past 14 years…and I see no end in sight,” Plummer declared.

He promised bigger things to come.“In appreciation for all the support

from our audiences, we are planning a 15th year celebration next summer; a mini Shakespeare Festival outside in the courtyard at RCC which will be filled with fun, food, and, of course, performances for all. You won’t want to miss it.”

News 3August 29, 2011

Such Stuff as Dreams are Made On

FIREFIGHTER FROM PAGE 1 as a volunteer firefighter at one of the 26 Rockland County Fire Departments—one year per semester in which they received reimbursement. This commitment ranges from two to 20 hours a week, depending on the individual fire department and their specific duties.

The program is administered by the Committee to Promote Volunteerism in Rockland County Emergency Services, Inc., a subcommittee of Rockland County Creative Approach to Fire Protection Committee. Their mission is to increase the “number [of volunteers] by recruitment or retention and to promote active involvement by businesses, government and other Rockland County organizations,” according to the Rockland

County website. Mike Kramar, the Treasurer of this

Committee as well as the President of the Hillcrest Fire Company, No. 1, approved of the program. “Many students need to work while attending college in order to pay for tuition. This program is designed to let them volunteer as a firefighter instead,” he declared.

The program has had a successful two years, reaching a zenith of 30 students per semester last year. Many of the students are traditional college students, but some are recently unemployed returning adult students or others looking to change careers. The grant money is going to run out in two years, but the Fire Departments are already looking for a new source of funding.

With all the success, though, there

was one question voiced: is there a similar program for Emergency Medical Technicians, another service that saves lives? If not, said EMT Nava Rosenrauch, “Then offering free tuition is very unfair.”

“I feel that if you’re going to offer it, then offer it to all emergency services—not just fire,” she added

Many students thought that this was a great idea, however. “They risk their lives for us whenever they go out on calls and aren’t even paid. It’s only fair that they can get something in return,” said recent alumna and Rockland County resident Ilana Grant.

The program has been so effective that the Fireman’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) plans to borrow the idea, and use a recent $4.2 million

grant from the Department of Homeland Security to enact a similar incentive.

Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) thought that the grant program was a great way to recruit firefighters, saying, “These funds will guarantee that fire departments throughout New York are well-staffed, and capable of quickly and safely responding to emergencies. The people of New York can sleep easier tonight knowing that their volunteer fire departments have additional resources to continue their life-saving work.”

Rockland Community College Volunteer Firefighters can be reimbursed for their tuition by filling out an application for Financial Aid with a completed FAFSA form and an attached letter showing active service from a Rockland Volunteer Fire Department.

Bud KoenemundSpecial to Outlook

Student Press

Stavros Adamides as Prospero and Malka Wallick as Miranda

Christopher Plummer as Caliban

Theodora Kimmel as Ariel

Volunteer Firefighters Eligible for Tuition Breaks

Class schedules don’t always work out impeccably. The truth is that you may have quite a few breaks in between classes during which you find yourself with nothing to do and nobody to talk to.

During my first month at RCC, I spent my two one-hour breaks sitting on the f loor of the Student Union waiting for something miraculous to happen; it never did. There are things I discovered during my first year to help keep busy, and I sure wish I had known about them my first few weeks on campus.

As trite as it sounds, try doing some school work. I was so possessed with failed attempts at mingling and trying to find my haven that I would let untouched homework sit in my bag. There are several areas with couches, tables, and benches in the Student Union that are perfect for studying and completing schoolwork. In between the academic buildings is a hallway filled with tables and chairs,

benches, and vending machines, making it another ideal spot for doing work.

Before the weather turns frigid, spend as much time as you can studying on the lawn, on the outdoor chairs, or on the different staircases. Grab some food in the cafeteria and eat it outdoors with a friend. If you don’t know anyone, try sparking a conversation with someone who is alone. Chances are, they are in the same dilemma as you. It can be awkward and daunting, but trust me, people are relatively friendly here.

If you have absolutely no work to get done and are carrying just a few coins in your pocket, there is a game room on the first f loor of the Student Union. They have video games, pool, a television, and other sources of entertainment. It is also a good place to make friends because everyone is in there for one reason: they have nowhere else to be.

RCC has a great deal of shows, special guests speakers and performers, poetry slams, concerts, festivals, and jewelry kiosks. If you keep your eyes and ears open, you will most likely come across an event that’s happening during at least one of your breaks. Don’t be shy to check it out; you may just be surprised at what you will see! Getting so caught up in the event that you forget about your next class, though, is something that I strongly discourage because it happened to me once.

Also, try finding your niche; it’s a new school, new people, and new opportunities. College will be a lot more fun if you get involved in activities you like with people who have the same interests. Scour the different intramural sports clubs or teams, along with any other clubs that you could possibly be curious about. If you don’t know where to begin, go to the Student Involvement office, located on the second f loor of the Student Union.

You can amplify your search during common hour, which takes place Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:30 to 1:30. All the campus clubs and groups meet and discuss their objectives, activities, and

upcoming events. There will most likely be food at these meetings, so even if you are just popping in to see what goes on, you can usually get a free snack or lunch.

If your break is long enough, you can jump in your car with a few friends and go for a joy ride. There are a few parks within Suffern and Airmont, as well as restaurants and cafés. If you live close by, you can always go home and take a cat nap. I don’t recommend sprawling out on the couches here, though, especially if you snore.

Making the most of the breaks in between classes means being open to new people and impressions, along with getting past the fear of being awkward or uncomfortable. It is imperative to know what is going on in the school and what to do in order to get involved. Use your breaks as a bona fide escape from the school regimen that you signed up for!

Features4 August 29, 2011

What to Do During Breaks Between Classes

College Offers Many Opportunities to Get Involved The first day of school has always

brought about a certain level of nervousness in us all. Throughout an educational career, typical students experience twelve first days of school, with each one getting easier as you reach that pinnacle “senior year.”

What about the first day of college?The first day of college brings the worry

of having to purchase your own textbooks and the responsibility for your own work as professors give you outlines of non-negotiable deadlines for the semester. And that’s just for your classes.

What about the social aspect of school? High schools offer a series of pep rallies and club fairs to entice freshmen to become more involved and develop interests for when they arrive at it comes to college or the work force. But when in college, you have the freedom to choose your own extracurriculars.

While it may seem overwhelming, there are plenty of outlets here at Rockland Community College for students to further refine their interests and skills. From club activities and sports to community service, new students at RCC can find the perfect activities to participate in, making

the transition from high school to college easier.

The first, and probably easiest, way to engage your interests is to join a club. Many students who may not have been that involved in extracurriculars in high school may be overwhelmed by the number of activities available to them here at RCC.

Luckily enough, clubs at the college do not have a set “entry date,” meaning it’s never too late to join and get involved with groups who may share similar interests as yours. There are a multitude of heritage clubs at RCC such as the Haitian Club and Filipinos United Club, both which regularly schedule activities outside of school hours for members and community to get involved.

There are also clubs that can build a new student’s skills in a particular field, as well introduce them to other members of the RCC community that share a similar interest. These include the Art Club, Theatre, or Outlook Student Press, which can allow students to develop useful portfolios to be used when they transfer to four-year universities.

Another great way to develop certain skills would be by joining the Debate Team at RCC, which could even help get a student into the Sigma Chi Eta Honors Speech Society.

Lastly, the best way a new student at RCC can take advantage of what the school has to offer is by giving back. The college offers tutoring and the peer mentoring program, which students can get involved in as soon as completing one semester at RCC. These activities can give students the opportunity to help others in their own classrooms, as well as allow them to develop a sense of community within the school.

There are also clubs like Habitat for

Humanity that have traveled to New Orleans to help in rebuilding damaged homes.

Of course, none of these activities is exclusive, as new students as well as returning ones can join. The best way to make the most of the RCC experience is by going to club meetings during common hour and seeing the great things this campus has to offer.

Even if students only join clubs for the sake of building a résumé, they can still make their college experience more enjoyable getting involved.

Brittany CoardSTAFF Writer

Some tips on how to use your time wisely

Shara Beitch FEATURES EDITOR

Features 5August 29, 2011

Starting the School Day Right: Breakfast Places in Rockland

The school year is upon us and some of us may be dreading the early morning routine. A quick and easy solution to morning apathy is having a delicious breakfast to get the day started right. People always say that breakfast is the

most important meal of the day, which is as true as can be when it comes to a student’s need for fuel to last the day.

Rockland County has numerous breakfast places that are located right under your nose, and being incredibly appetizing, they will surely brighten up the morning.

Here are some suggestions to ensure you start the day off right.

The first location is your own kitchen. If you cannot afford to go out and buy breakfast, make an omelet or a pancake with all your favorite ingredients.

Look up new things to make, and have a little fun with it. Being creative will make waking up in the morning less dull, and since almost everyone’s favorite activity is eating, it should lessen the urge to hit the snooze button.

Although a breakfast bar would suffice, you may just be surprised by the effectiveness of a filling, wholesome breakfast.

If you have the extra cash, grab a friend and go to a local sit down diner or restaurant. Waking up an extra hour earlier won’t feel like much of a burden if you get to chat it up with your friends. Most diners generally serve the same types of food, so there will always be a dish to satisfy anyone’s palette.

A few suggestions are The New City Diner and Nanuet Diner in Nanuet; City Line in New City; The Blauvelt Diner in Blauvelt; and The Airmont Diner in Suffern. Eating naturally relaxes your body and mind, so after a breakfast you

will notice your mood change and your body awaken. You will need the decreased stress level and the energy for class.

If you’re looking to add a bit of excitement to your breakfast in addition to the ordinary mealtime foods, treat yourself to dessert for breakfast. Eat a donut, have ice cream on a waffle, or satisfy your sweet tooth with brownies and cupcakes.

A great place is Temptations in Nyack known for their delicious, mouthwatering treats. The Strawtown Café in West Nyack is new and building up an excellent reputation due to their tasty coffee drinks.

We can never forget the good old IHOP in Spring Valley, which is one of the most deservingly popular breakfast places on the east coast, according to Eric Rezsnyack, a restaurant writer in the CITY newspaper. IHOP never ceases to fill a hungry student up with a wide array of sweet or salty meals.

Sometimes you don’t have sufficient

time to sit down and revel in a delicious breakfast. The solution for this is relatively simple; there are multiple businesses all over where you can pick up a coffee and bagel on your way to school.

A few options are Bagel Boys in New City, Elim Bagels in Nanuet, Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, or even Seven Eleven. Additionally, Zimi’s Bagels in Pearl River, David’s Bagels

in New City, Nyack Hot Bagels in Nyack, and Eli’s and Kathy’s bagels in Spring Valley are all ample choices.

Recently, Subway has started serving breakfast, and there are several Subways scattered all over the area.

Rockland County offers hundreds of food places. Finding new locations to eat, and new foods, is the best part of eating. Whether it’s an on-the-go bagel and coffee, a homemade meal, or a sit down breakfast with your best friend, it will add an undeniable amount of endurance to your school day.

Tina PaceContributing Writer

Ways to snag that extra cash

Kenny DanielContributing Writer

We all need some money once our summer job is long gone, so if you want a job during the school year, certain steps need to be followed in order to get a desirable position.

Once the semester starts, plenty of students are dry on cash, and their parents aren’t going to pay for everything. Usually, the cost of education is expensive as it is, and parents don’t have the extra money to pay for your recreations.

Many students start their first job in September, which is what makes the job market so hard for anyone else to find work after the first month or two of school. The reason for the difficulty in finding work would be the timing. In order to solve this problem, it’s crucial that you send out your job application a few weeks or even a month or two prior to the start of the semester. Applying for the job early is the most significant part in getting the one that best suits you.

Other than having the right timing to send out the application, an attitude appropriate

for a job position is just as important. You have to be willing to do work and take full responsibility for your actions. Look on the bright side of every dirty job, because it is an opportunity to gain life experience as well as to earn money. There will be obstacles and uneasy thoughts with every after school job, but it’s truly about fighting through those circumstances to learn something from the business.

Try to apply for jobs that spark an interest to you. If you want to be a fashion designer, apply to clothing stores. If you have a passion for medicine, apply to be a secretary at a doctor’s office. Getting your foot in the door any way that you can will help you in the long run, as well as filling up the hole in your pocket. Having an interest in the job will definitelymake going to work less agonizing and

make you more eager to do it well. You also need to ensure that the job you

apply for balances well with your school schedule. You cannot let your job get in the way of having success in school, because a n education should always

come before money. Flexibility is essential

because you need to be able to change your schedule and take days off in order

to prepare for exams. You should work for employers that will understand your priorities and never

jeopardize your schoolwork.

T h e e nv i r o n m e n t you work in must go well with your personality and

help you positively learn and grow.

You need to have an understanding when it comes to the reality of a school year job; it is not just a way to

earn money, but it will also be something you put on your resume, your transfer applications, and other job applications for employment history and references. Consider your future and the opportunities you hope to have when choosing a school-year job.

Remember to take your work seriously and to commit a tireless effort; you can’t start slacking off, or you will lose the job to someone who is more ambitious. Understand that jobs over the semester, or even jobs in general, are hard to find and the competition is fierce. It’s important to show that your job is one of your top priorities.

Juggling a job while being a student will build a positive work ethic and will enforce essential skills in the work field. So whether you’re focused on the money-earning aspect of the job you apply for or not, the many experiences that come with a school-year job will surely follow you into the future.

opinions6 August 29, 2011

Outlook Student Press

Outlook Student Press is published every other week except during exam periods and summer. It is an independent newspaper and public forum produced by students and paid for by advertising revenue and student activities fees. Outlook Student Press invites you to submit your opinions and ideas for publication. We strongly encourage letters to the editor.Content does not necessarily reflect the views of the Outlook editors or staff. Submissions may be edited for clarity, length, style, and taste. Outlook does not accept anonymous submissions.

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Staff: Brittany Coard, Peter Vey, Tina Pace.

Contributors: Kenny Daniel, Shannon Reid.

On the web: Outlookpress.orgFacebook.com/outlookpressEmail: Outlookstudentpress@gmail.comOffice: Student Union Room 3200 Phone: (845) 574-4389Fax: (845) 356-6261

Snail mail:Outlook Student PressRockland Community College145 College Road, Suffern, NY 10901

Professor Fuentes, Advisor

Josh Blachorsky, Editor-in-Chief Vanessa Pastorelli, Production ManagerSari Ugell, Managing Editor Rebecca Gross, News Editor

Shara Beitch, Features EditorElizabeth Maze, Style & Entertainment EditorLouie Gaitan, Technology EditorMonica Powell, Science & Health Editor

Like to write? E-mail us at outlookstudentpress@gmail.com

THE EDITORS’ TAKE

Openness and a “reveal-all” spirit are positive attributes, but to a degree. After all, a free press is a bastion of democracy and in the very first clause of our nation’s Bill of Rights. When there is a danger of people being hurt or killed as a result of the newspaper’s lack of discretion, though, newspapers must carefully consider the consequences of what their actions may cause, and self-censor at times. Take The New York Times publication of Wikileaks, for example. Many feel that this enormous exposé of information had a positive impact, arguing that the publication of the wealth of Tunisia’s leaders caused the Tunisians to rebel, thus starting the Arab Spring. There, where there was no danger of lives being lost as a direct result of the newspaper’s actions, publication was appropriate. Other pieces The New York Times published, though, dealt with Afghans aiding U.S. forces with the war. There, however, there was censorship and concealment—the Times deleted the names, deciding that lives could be at stake. In regard to censorship, sunlight is the best disinfectant—to a point.

Censorship in newspapers can be a touchy subject because a wide array of opinions arise once this topic is mentioned. In the midst of controversy over whether or not articles should be “screened,” I believe one thing is critical to remember when considering the publishing of others’ works, and that is maintaining a constant respect for independent viewpoints of a particular subject. Low tolerance towards others’ opinions will only create distorted information and unsettling disputes. This is not to say that vulgar material targeted at a person or company, with the motive of harming or embarrassing them, is excusable. I am entirely against such use of one’s words in writing, and I believe there is always a respectful and tactful manner in which to exhibit an opinion without producing any undesirable outcomes. Essentially, it’s using our common sense to decipher what is and what isn’t appropriate for a newspaper, all while keeping in mind the importance of preserving the true message any author wishes to convey.

When it comes to censorship, there is a constant battle between people who want a tell all and people who like a neat, clean article without any controversy or eyebrow raising comments. Personally, I think the responsibility of censorship really lies with the author himself. If you can publish something that you are proud of and can, in good conscience, say that this is something you will stand behind, go for it. Your intention shouldn’t be malicious at its core but, rather an opportunity to expose something or share information. If you can’t proudly stand behind what you’ve created to say that it was for the good and not meant to intentionally harm, then it is up to the writer to censor himself.

When it comes to censorship within a newspaper, I don’t think any thought, idea, or story should be kept out. Appropriateness, however, depends on how a statement is written and where it can be found publicized. As a school newspaper, our goal is to present reliable news to promote awareness, as well as entertain the reader. If something exists, it is concrete news and shouldn’t be kept out of the paper. A problem cultivates when the piece is written in a vulgar manner with a motive to insult. Opinion pieces are meant to be controversial because that is what makes it trigger ideas and well as interest. However, when opinions are incorporated into a different section, such as news, it can skew credibility and embody a violation of censorship. Opinion articles need to stay in their own section, because otherwise it weighs down the scale of fairness and has the

potential to offend the reader.

I do believe some things should be kept out of newspapers, such as information acquired in an illegitimate manner or vulgar language. I believe most of this falls under responsible reporting, rather than what is considered censorship. To me, what is defined as censorship suggests a government body that charges a fine if you use a “bad” word. Only if a publication proves incapable of determining what is appropriate or not to be published, then censorship would be necessary.

Rebecca Gross

MonicaPowell

ElizabethMaze

Shara Beitch

LouieGaitan

Around the world, oppressive regimes are falling. Acting upon the fervor that began in Tunisia, freedom-fighters in Egypt, Yemen, Libya and possibly now Syria, rose up against their governments to pursue freedom liberty, and democracy. By doing so, they have kicked out autocratic dictators who ruled their country with an iron fist for years. Part of what made these governments so despicable is their attempted thought and mind

control over their people. The presses weren’t free, liberty was quashed, and the people rebelled. In America, we are fortunate that the 1st Amendment to the Constitution guarantees us the freedom of the press. But, can this be taken too far? Does taste and tact matter when printing? Should stories about homeland security be allowed to run? We asked our editors if there is anything that should not be printed, or if everything is fair game.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT... MEDIA

CENSORSHIP?

We’ve all been there: it’s a rainy Friday afternoon, you barely passed that calculus test, and you’d love nothing more than to put on your comfiest sweatpants and lock yourself in your room with a jar of Nutella. But what do you do next? Flipping through the same reruns of “Real Housewives of New York” or trolling your Facebook news feed can get pretty mundane, and nothing really quite captures the current funk you’re in.

Alas, there’s your trusty DVD cabinet filled with your favorite childhood Disney classics and cheesy bargain-bin films alike. (Did you really need that $3 copy of “Sorority Row”?) So which do you choose? Here’s a list of a few movies to watch under the emotional states of cheeriness, nostalgia, and overall teenage angst.

Everyone has that one funny movie that

you can quote at the drop of a hat. For me, that movie is “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.” It isn’t exactly the most intellectual humor, but something about the utter ridiculousness of Will Ferrell’s characters in any of his films makes me laugh. While others may enjoy smarter or darker comedy, Will Ferrell’s slapstick humor hits just the right spot for those days when you need a good chuckle. Whether it’s “The Other Guys” or “Stepbrothers,” having a solid comedy to rely on when you’re in the mood to laugh is probably the most fundamental aspect of any movie lover.

The next emotion we feed when watching movies is nostalgia. There’s that feeling you get when you know there’s a “Potter Weekend” on ABC Family or the sudden urge to bust out your “Mulan” DVD one Sunday afternoon.

It’s something about certain films that evoke the little kid in all of us who would willingly sit and watch the same movie on repeat everyday. Whether it’s just an occasional trip

to yesteryear or an actual deliberate marathon of all your favorite children’s movies, nothing beats indulging your inner child.

Lastly, and most importantly, is the feeling of angst. As one of the most relatable emotions to audience members, angst is something that can be felt at all ages. Typically starting around age 13, moviegoers find their own angst-filled stories within each film (for my generation, “Mean Girls” fulfilled this responsibility).

Early teen angst later transcends to the full-blown, “woe is me” angst felt during the high school years, which can be mended through typical “chick flicks” targeted to teen girls like “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” or darker films like “Heathers.”

None of this is to say that all audiences have the same desire to feed their emotions with the same movies. Some unique individuals may actually want to watch comedies when they’re sad, “The Notebook” when they’re feeling nostalgic (which, realistically, no one could do seeing as anyone with Alzheimer’s

wouldn’t miraculously remember things whilst wining and dining with their spouse, but that’s for another article). In essence, moviegoers look forward to seeing characters go through situations that we all have either faced or wish we could face.

Whether it’s a form of therapy or escapism, movies will continue to give in to the emotions of us all.

As for your calculus grade and that Nutella, well, you’re on your own.

Aliens, doctors, police boxes, and time travel are just some of the marvelous things that science fiction has to offer. With both British programs and American ones, it is easy to get so caught up in a series that you wake up with a lower back TARDIS tattoo. With American television adapting British ideas at a rapid rate, it is time to take a look across the pond at the dynamic and fascinating genre of British science fiction.

A common connotation of British Sci-Fi is that it often has a lower budget than its American counterpart. However, this is in no way a bad thing. Higher budgets do not always guarantee better quality. Look at all the f lops on American cable that have been highly funded but poorly reviewed and promptly cancelled.

Without a ludicrously high budget, these shows rely heavily on the acting talents of the cast and intricate scripts that shape some of the most interesting story lines. Another perk of British Sci-Fi is the dynamics of the characters. Instead of having a bad guy and a good guy, audiences are shown characters that may kill a man but still happily help an old lady across the street. Without conventional good and bad standards, the audience is left with a more realistic character. Since we are not always just good or just bad, it is great to see that our favorite characters are just as conf licted as we are.

You can’t discuss British Sci-Fi without a mention of “Doctor Who.” With the classic series starting in the early sixties, millions of people from all over the world have been captivated by the Doctor, his time traveling blue police box, and his companions. With a wide range of actors each taking their own unique spin on the doctor’s personality, clothes, adversaries, and choice of companions, audiences are never with a dull moment. The constant regenerations of the Doctor give audiences something new to look forward to instead of being gridlocked with one leading character that often grows dull or has a lackluster performance.

With a revamp of the show in 2005, staring the charming and witty Christopher Eccleston as the ninth doctor, a new generation of loyal Whovians emerged. With David Tennant taking over from 2005 to 2010 as the tenth doctor, fans were impressed with his quirky personality and humor. Currently, Matt Smith is taking the role of the eleventh doctor and audiences are pumped for the new season.

Another popular British science fiction show is “Torchwood.” A spin-off from Russell T. Davies’ revival of “Doctor Who” in 2005, Torchwood has a wide audience that caters to both adults and children. The team is led by the dynamic character Captain Jack Harkness with the motto, “If it is alien, then it is ours.” With constantly twisting plots, edge-of-your-seat moments, and inner team hookups and tension, Torchwood isn’t just for the hardcore science fans but anyone who wants to get swept up in a fast-paced drama. What makes this show even more interesting is the fact that its protagonist, Jack Harkness, has a sexual orientation that is described as “omnisexual.” This character is not defined by the strictly

straight or strictly gay stigma that is often found in television and shows how British television is less rigid when it comes to the always gay, always straight

stereotypes that many shows seem to be defined by. Currently, “Torchwood” is being shown on the STARZ network of American television as “Torchwood: Miracle Day.” With positive reviews so far, “Torchwood” fans, both American and British, are pleased with the higher budget and bigger publicity.

With other British science fiction shows like “Being Human,” “Misfits,” and “Jekyll” f loating around online and on your TV, it is easy to find something for whatever level of Sci-Fi you are looking for. The key to Sci-Fi is not to limit your options. American and British programs alike offer a wide array of amazing programs, spin-offs, originals, and remakes. Don’t be afraid to browse the channels outside your normal comfort zone and look online for upcoming shows and episodes that are sure to fulfill the time traveling, alien fighting, “Wibbly-Wobbly, Timey-Wimey-stuff” quota for the day.

Elizabeth MazeStyle Editor

Brittany CoardSTaff Writer

Style and EntertainmentAugust 29, 2011 7

Movies and Your Emotions

British Sci-Fi Invades American TV

Style and Entertainment8 August 29, 2011

Since the beginning of time—alright, since the beginning of organized style—men and women took seemingly separate paths, with form-fitted designs for the ladies and a looser fit for the men. Recently, a new trend has started to emerge that will finally blur the lines of gender in a perfect mix of trendy and attractive fits that can give anyone who is willing to try them a better fashion sense. With “boyfriend” styles for the women and men donning tighter clothes with each season, it is time to leave the gender confines behind and

peek into the closet of the opposite sex. A popular trend for women this year

is the arrival of the fitted suit. Complete with fitted trousers, blazer, and tie, many

women are fearlessly taking this trend from their male counterparts and pairing it with a feminine touch like heels or lipstick. By picking a complementary hairstyle, like a loose bun or just wearing it down, and some simple accessories, this male- inspired look can be feminized quickly. Celebrities like Leighton Meester have modeled this look at red carpet events and inspired other women to do the same. With a looser fit and traditional cuts, these suits are definitely something to try during the year.

If you aren’t quite ready to dig that far into the men’s wardrobe, a safe step over to the boy’s section is the use of a blazer. A popular trend that flatters most shapes and figures, blazers come in almost every color and fit. A looser blazer over a dress with some heels for a night out, or a more casual cropped or fitted blazer with a pair of jeans and a tank top for the day, are both simple and staple pieces that can be used again and again. Whether you like baggy, the English Professor, shoulder pads, or close and cropped, there is a blazer out there for you.

A definite fashion want is the “boyfriend” fit. Most stores, like H&M and even American Eagle, offer this looser fit that takes the design and fit of a boy’s traditional style and sizes it for women. Jeans in this fit often hang looser on the hips with a wider leg and longer fly like you would see on a boy’s jean. Shirts are often styled in a boxier, loose fit that isn’t curve hugging but still flattering with most body types or pulled in with a belt for more shape.

A popular look taken straight from men is the military look. Combat boots, military coats, and camouflage colors, such as hunter greens, blacks, and beiges, are being adapted for any girl’s closet.

Combat boots are styled by so many designers that there are almost too many choices. Vintage leathers, worn in suede,

and solid soles make these shoes reliable and a way to spruce up any plain outfit. Military jackets and coats are incredibly easy to work with and style however you want. Wearing one over a dress or even with a pair of jeans makes this seemingly “boys only” trend a perfect fit on nearly any woman. Sharp cuts, brassy buttons, vintage materials, and military decorations on this style are just some of their many selling points.

With the sheer number of men to women trends, it is easy for it to feel like it’s a ladies-only world. Fear not, my fashion ready gentleman. Designers have not forgotten you and your quest for excellent fashion. Skinny jeans and fitted jeans are the guys’ way of taking this once women’s only trend and making it work on the guys’ figure. The key to these jeans is not to buy too small a size or you’ll risk looking like you’re stuffed into denim spandex. Tighter fitted shirts and v-necks are quickly being taken over by the men and paired perfectly with cardigans, varsity jackets, and other popular trends. Though not many men are willing to go the distance, designers like Marc Jacobs are rocking their kilts and skirts without a care in the world. Celebrities like Johnny Depp are blurring the makeup lines and rocking heavy kohl eyeliner, while musicians can be seen decked out in nail polish that would make any girl jealous.

With all the ways to borrow styles from over the gender line, now is definitely the time to blur the boundaries between strictly feminine and masculine. By incorporating these styles gradually and making them work with what you already own, it is super easy to look good with any of these trends while pushing the boundaries in a way that suits your body.

Elizabeth MazeStyle Editor

Fashion Neutrals: Androgyny in Fashion

While high waist jeans, white-washed denim jackets, worn-down leather jackets, and Ray-Ban inspired sunglasses may be fabulous style choices, they are, quite frankly, overpriced. The clothing industry can get away with charging ridiculous prices for them because consumers buy them.

However, we as the consumers, have the right to be just as sneaky and cunning as those corporate clothing goons by buying new styles at locations other than shopping outlets…known as thrift stores. Don’t label “thrifting” as an expertise of sweaty hipsters in tacky trucker hats; it is simply not the case. Anyone can find a hidden gem in a thrift store because literally anyone can donate his or her clothes to one. So sit back, whip out the notepad on your smartphone and take some notes on the best places to thrift within the area.

High StyleLocation: 70 Lafayette Ave, Suffern

NY 10901Walking in, you may feel like you’ve

stepped into Bea Arthur’s closet, but do not be discouraged. This store is a prime example of a place with clothing and

accessories that are hidden gems for cheaper prices. The racks in the front usually hold blouses and blazers that range in price from $10 to $20. Within that section, you are likely to stumble upon brand names such as Free People, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Forever 21. There is also an incredible section of men’s dress shirts for under $20 in an array of pastels, which can be useful for guys or girls that enjoy the slouchy, rolled up sleeves look. You will also find a section filled with Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada bags and wallets that are probably from the 90’s. Despite the age, the older the accessory, the more character it has.

Goodwill StoreLocation: 130 W Route 59, Nanuet,

NY 10954-2215While the Goodwill store may seem like

a no-brainer for thrift options, shoppers tend to overlook it when checking out various consignment shops. Although you are likely to find more basic garments of clothing rather than unique, vintage oddities, the shop is still worth a dig-through as all t-shirts are color-coordinated and the store itself is quite organized. As opposed to some other thrift stores in the area, the Goodwill store also sells pieces of furniture such as couches, chairs, and tables, an ideal feature for any college

student moving into his or own place. Udelco, Inc.210 East 6th StreetHawthorne, NJ 0750Before delving into the description of

the store, it must be noted that this is not a typical thrift stop because it’s actually a thrift warehouse. Though it’s a bit of a hike, it is still one of the most valuable thrift stores that I have seen, and therefore deserves honorable mention. Entering through a rusted, old iron door, you will see a large warehouse filled with large brown boxes that contain a plethora of clothing styles. For instance, there is a section of boxes that solely contains Levi denim jackets and shorts that range from $2 to $10. Possibly one of the most interesting aspects of the store is its convenient labeling system. The boxes are labeled as “80’s style tops,” “90’s style dresses,” “concert tees,” etc., which cuts the time of sorting through clothes that you may not want. Additionally, it has an amazing section of quality military and leather jackets for $8.

On a final note, do not treat “thrifting” as a quick shopping trip because it takes time to sort through the large influx of clothing. So take your time, admire the clothes, and treat your wallet to a stress-free shopping trip.

Shannon ReidContributing Writer

One Person’s Junk is Another Person’s Wardrobe: The Thriftiest Thrift Stores Around

Clothing choices that walk the gender line

SCIENCE & HealthAugust 29, 2011 9

The new school year has arrived, and for many of us this means a lot of time in the classroom and little time in the kitchen. Not having the luxury of countless hours during the summer, and in adding the busyness of a college schedule, the eating habits you subscribe to are more prone to take a downhill turn for the worse. An unhealthy diet doesn’t have to be a consequence of a new semester in the books, though, for a healthy body is key to maintaining the energy, and possibly grades, you need. In making the conscience decision to incorporate simple and nutrient-dense foods into your daily regimen, you are on your way to a successful year both in and out of college.

The first step may be throwing together the simple recipe that follows. This “Grainless Granola” doubles as a snack mix, so you can enjoy it in the morning as a cereal paired with milk or yogurt, or you can simply stash it in a bag for a quick pick-me-up to fuel yourself during the long school hours.

Along with having the mental satisfaction of preparing your own meal or snack, the making of this recipe is equally as satisfying to your body because of the array of nutrients it offers. Each ingredient has something to brag about, from the pecans and almonds containing

high amounts of Vitamin E which assist in heart health, to the fiber found in the dried apples and raisins which promote a sound digestive tract. The spices are unique components themselves, adding not only lively flavor to the recipe but also having anti-clotting effects on the body’s blood and providing anti-inflammation elements for the body’s overall well-being.

By making your own granola or snack mix, you avoid all of the refined sugar, artificial colors and flavors, and preservatives that are unnecessarily thrown into the boxed and bagged versions at the supermarket. Knowing that you’re taking responsibility for your own health is one of the best decisions you could make, and the result of doing is truly rewarding.

Grainless Granola Ingredients: 1 cup Raw Pecans, chopped 1 cup Dried Apples, chopped 1 cup raisins 1 cup Raw Sunflower Seeds 1/2 cup Raw Almonds, chopped pinch of ground cloves, cinnamon

and nutmeg Combine all of the ingredients above

in a bowl and stir to mix well. Store in a sealed container and keep for up to a month.

Recipe courtesy of Dr. Josh Axe

Kick-Starting the School Year: The Healthy Way! This grainless granola can be eaten at any time of the day

Nowadays, most games fit into simple and easy to define categories. Not so with Bastion, the debut title from indie developer Supergiant Games. The setting is fantasy with magitech and steampunk elements and is illustrated beautifully. The dialog and music have an old western vibe to them and the music also has an Asian twist to it. The music was so good that many demanded

that the soundtrack be made available for purchase almost instantaneously. From this brief description it may sound like a train wreck waiting to happen, but it merges into a really enjoyable experience that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

It also features “dynamic narration” which really adds depth to the game. The narrator will actively narrate how you’re playing, whether you are beating foes with ease, falling off too many ledges or destroying the charred remains of those who died in the “Calamity.” The story focuses on the aftermath of the Calamity and the main character, “The Kid’s attempt to make things right. The gameplay is fast paced action RPG with lots of customization. You can customize your character in four ways, spirits (read liquor) that augment

your stats and abilities, different weapon combos, various weapons upgrades and special moves. All of these options can be changed whenever you are at the “Bastion,” the games hub, with no penalty or fee.

I really enjoyed the spirits, each was

unique and useful. You can also customize the enemies by worshiping gods. Each god you choose to worship augments the enemies in some way that makes them more difficult to defeat, like giving them health regeneration. You are rewarded for the increased difficulty with experience and money bonuses. Bastion contains an

arena system called “Who Knows Where” that also functions as a vehicle for revealing the back-stories of the main character and two of the side characters. After each wave, the narrator tells you a bit more about the character. All this in a game that only costs $15. In other words, I highly recommend buying this.

Louie GaitanTechnology Editor

technology

Monica PowellScience & Health Editor

“Bastion” is One Game You Don’t Want to Miss

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