Strength in Stripes: Mizzou Homecoming

My friends Maggie and David tailgating outside the stadium!

Homecoming. It's a tradition almost every high school student knows. But the origin? How many of you readers know how it started? 

For those of you who don't know, it started right here at Mizzou! In 1911 Athletic Director Chester Brewer invited past alumni to "come home" for the annual Mizzou v. Kansas game. That game is a BIG DEAL. The arch rivalry between the two schools has been present for more than a century, so that really set the tone for how big homecoming would become here at MU. While we don't play University of Kansas for homecoming each year, we still go big for the game!

Homecoming at Mizzou is characterized by several main events. First is the World's Biggest Blood Drive (recognized by the Guiness Book of World Records)! Each year MU holds the blood drive in the Hearnes center, where they collected 4,262 units of blood. This is part of homecoming competition, so each participating Greek house (fraternities and sororities) give blood. Don't be surprised if you have people asking for your blood when you get here, they'll want you to donate for their house! The blood drive is the week before homecoming week, but there are deferral days the next week.

During the actual week of homecoming Residential Life has their own competition. This includes painting banners to be hung from their common areas, a BBQ, and the parade. I worked on the Rollins (Gillett and Hudson) banner - which had a Kung Fu Panda theme. This was part of the larger theme of Blockbuster hits in the last decade. The BBQs were also a lot of fun. I went BBQ hopping, and each one had something different to offer. RGC's had live music, Pershing Commons had a giant blow up slide, and Bingham's featured everything from a Cupcake Walk, Pie a P.A., and face painting! Oh yeah, and there was tons of free food to go around!

The banner I made for RGC! The amount of glitter was atrocious! 

Even before all the homecoming festivities begin, Greek life is preparing! For the House Decs, which all of Columbia comes out to see, the sororities and fraternities pair up together to create elaborate backdrops.

Madagascar

These are pomped, which is tissue paper art. Hours upon hours are spent constructing these! During house decs each pair put on their own themed skit! Here are some of the pictures from this years house decorations. 

Cars

Then the morning of the game is the parade! Prefaced by a free pancake breakfast, the parade starts the day of homecoming off right! It's perfectly acceptable to roll out of bed and head out there too. 

Marching Mizzou, all the Greek and Residential life floats, and other community foundations participate. Be prepared to stock up on candy, because most of the 160+ parade entries have goodies to toss out! 

Mizzou homcoming is such big deal that we recruit some pretty impressive floats... if you can call it that... 

The Oscar Myer Weinermobile!

And finally - the game! It'll be sold out - that's a guarantee. Buy yours early just to make sure you get one! People are really spirited, so be prepared to arrive early, cheer loud, and stay late! We shut out Colorado with a whopping 58-0 score! Tailgating before is fun, but make sure you make it to the game on time so you can take it all in. This year they had Marching Mizzou Alumni come and play. It was really fun to see 40+ year old people coming back to MU! 

My roommate Mystle, Annica, Maggie, and I all face painted for the game.

Homecoming at Mizzou is an event you don't want to miss out on. Even if you're not a football fan, make sure you make it to the game. If only for the atmosphere and environment. Seeya next year! MIZ - ZOU! 

Dorm Days!

Rachel and I ready to dominate!

Think of all the fun you’re having right now during your final year(s) of high school. Got it? Now multiply it by ten, at least. That’s what college is like. While you spend a sizeable amount of time studying, there is ALWAYS something exciting going on.

Take today for instance. Usually Sundays are pretty quiet, reserved for homework, but today was jam-packed with thrill! At the Rec Center you can join or create basketball teams for competition. It’s a great way to hang out with your friends, release some competitive energy, and exercise. Well, today was the final game of G6 – the 6th floor of Gillett’s basketball team. Normally these games don’t really draw a crowd, but this one did.

More than 25 people showed up to support them! I’ll admit – my friend Rachel and I showed up Dressed to Impress! We were ready to hype up the game and get people excited!

Representing G6!

Full on body paint to match their team colors (pink and black), capes with the team ‘slogan’ on them (True Ballers Never Sleep), and matching accessories! We lead that cheering section with pride.

Silly is probably the best word to describe a typical day in the dorms. Once I got on the elevator only to be greeted by a handful of boys and a million balloons! Another time I was walking to the bathroom only to run into a hotdog!

Everyone brings their personality to college, which makes it so fun! This really shines through into the dorm rooms as well. I’ll tell you right now though that some stereotypes are true. Boys’ dorms kind of smell, and girls’ dorms tend to be very color coordinated.

P.A. Shane from the Sixth floor, Rachel and her fort, and Good 'Ole David Dishman (the hotdog)

When I give you this advice remember that this is a girls perspective. I’m just making sure to state my bias!

Bring LOTS of pictures. You might feel like they’re not necessary, but not only will you want them when you miss your family, but they are good conversation starters and decoration pieces!

This is my friend Lauren's room. Her and her roommate didn't even discuss what color scheme they were going for, and they matched so well! 

Also stock up on items like Shampoo and toothpaste. They’re expensive anywhere you go, and not something you want to run out of.

Other things: Food. Food. Food. Fill your shelves while your parents are around. An umbrella and RAIN BOOTS. This is Missouri and the weather unpredictable. And last but not least: body paint for dorm basketball games!

Mizzou Myths: Busted

Let’s face it: there are some pretty firm stereotypes about college that have developed over the years. I might have only been living here for two months, but I can already tell you a lot of my preconceived notions about college life were wrong.

Long-distance relationships don’t last in college:
MYTH! Not only is it possible to stay in a relationship at college, but also it’s commonplace. About 10 people on my floor started the year off with a significant other, including myself. So far, most of us have been able to manage it. While it’s difficult because college is such a huge transition, you can swing it!

Things to keep in mind:

• You have to be open to change. College is the time of your life where you finally get to reassess your identity and discover who you want to be. Adults are right when they say don’t limit yourself. Stay in the relationship if you are still open to growth.

• Communication is important. I have found services like Skype and AIM to be very useful. Also, increase your phone plan. You’ll be using a lot of minutes and texts and the overages aren’t worth it!

You don’t have to go to class to pass:
MYTH! I hate to break it to you, but this is a complete myth. Seldom do professors post notes, and you never want to rely on someone else’s. Even if they take a lot of notes, you can never guarantee the quality. Keep in mind that you have to be in class to know what points the professor is stressing.

Example: In my human development class I overheard some girls chatting on her cell phone. She was telling her friend how she finally made it to class and that she failed the last test. “I read the chapters in the book,” she said, but that just wasn’t enough.

You need to be present to understand the material and what the professor expects from you.

You have to drink to have a good time:

MYTH! Totally not true. I’ve had the most fun just hanging out in the dorm playing Apples to Apples or watching movies. No one cares if you chose not to drink and you shouldn’t feel obligated just to go with the flow.

If you want to have a good time and avoid situations that might pressure you attend Mizzou After Dark events! They do events ranging from Grocery Bag Bingo to Spa Nights to Bollywood Movie Nights! They’re free to students too.

You will gain the Mizzou-22
MYTH! That’s right, it’s not the Freshmen-Fifteen. Here at Mizzou there is all-you-can eat style dining. This has its pros and cons. You won’t ever be left hungry, but you risk over indulging. So long as you are contentious, you’ll avoid the extra poundage!

Tips to avoid the Mizzou-22:
• Limit your meal plan. I’ll tell you right now – 21 meals is excessive and you will not eat them. There is always free food on campus, so you don’t go to the dining hall for each meal. I have also found that I usually eat breakfast either in my room or on the go. I have the 14 meal plan and usually still have points left over.
• Avoid Rollins Pizza To-Go as a daily ritual. Rollins pizza is delicious and addicting, but don’t rely on it as your only dietary sustenance.
• Go to the Rec Center! Mizzou’s rec center was rated the best in the nation by Sports Illustrated! There are televisions in all the work out machines and if you like to lift weights hit up the Pump Room.

Athletes don’t hang out with the rest of us
MYTH! While you probably won’t see Chase Daniel in your freshmen biology class, athletes are just like the rest of us. They go to class and have a social life!

Yes! This is Sean Weatherspoon, who some claim to be the best linebacker in the nation! And That's me!!! He was in Gillett acting in a friend's iLife video!

I will tell you though; the athletes have a special dining hall. I can’t report on this because it’s a pretty exclusive place, so if you ever get the chance try to get in!

The Art of the Free T-Shirt

Ryan Cornell, a certified Freebie Fanatic, has gotten 14

free t-shirts so far to date! Anything is possible if you put your mind to it!

So you could get a job in college. Or you could plead with your parents for spending money each month. Or you could even pick up street performing. All just to make a few bucks for clothes.

Or, might I offer this viable solution: stocking your wardrobe full of free t-shirts. For the fashion frenzied this might not be the most ideal suggestions, but it is college and sometimes you have to make sacrifices.

Now this is a serious matter: that of freebies. They range from the pen escalating to the Frisbee or lunchbox and then culminating in the free t-shirt. The basic items can be found at most organization displays, but it takes a true knack for finding the t-shirt. First you must start out with a location. This is harder said than done. Often times organizations give no previous warning of their arrival, so you must keep your eyes peeled. You occasionally will get a flyer or email, which is imperative that you scan for any indication of free items. Finally, listen up! Word of mouth may be the most effective way to scout out the goods.

Free T-Shirt of the day: Seatbelt Safety! 

Once you’ve determined the location you must focus on timing. This is critical, because if you aren’t strategic you may be shut out. Try to go during a class period that you have free. If you wait till the ten minute transit time the group will likely be flooded with similar freebie fanatics. Also, you want to make sure you have time in case they require any participation or elaborate sign ups. If you’re on the go though, still stop by because it may just be a quick give-a-way.

Next, you must practice proper etiquette in receiving your t-shirt. Listen to what they are speaking about and garner an actual interest in the organization. They’re giving you free clothes, they at least deserve that!

Finally, you must abide by the collegiate code, which is to pass on knowledge of any (good) freebies. Call, text, holler from the rooftops. It’s only fair that everyone know about the opportunity once you’ve gotten yours. This is only necessary after you get your free t-shirt. If you tell others before hand, they may get theirs before yours and they might run out.

I hope these tips have proven helpful. May you have much success on your future quest for the free t-shirt.

Let's Hit the Books

Ellis Library

Class (n): An event to be both enjoyed and fulfilling. 

Alright, so that isn't always the case. Not to burst your bubble, but for the last month I have not gotten up each day eager to rise for my 9 a.m. class. 75% of the time I do, but it would just be implausible for anyone to enjoy each and every day of school. 

That being said, I really do love my classes this semester! I'm taking 16 credit hours, which is the average recommended in order to graduate in four years. It may seem like a lot, but so far I've found it to be very manageable. Because I'm not in a FIG (freshmen interest group) the classes I have are all ones I selected. If you're on the fence about joining a FIG take into consideration that you have more flexibility if you opt out. However, there are some classes you may not be able to get into because they are reserved for certain FIGs. 

FIGs are set up so that freshmen of similar interests (professional, social, or undecided) can live together, while taking classes together. Students are required to take at least three classes together that are usually general education courses. What's nice about this is that you always have a study buddy close by, which is especially helpful when an exam comes around. I often see my dorm-mates heading out to class together, and they often grab meals afterwards. It's a guaranteed group of friends to sit with in large lectures! The FIG also includes a weekly proseminar, which basically entails getting to know your peers and participating in life planning activities. 

Personally, I decided against a FIG because I wanted the freedom to take other classes. While my friends are sharing notes on political science and biology, I've been studying up on my human development course, as well as environmental geology. I am in a Learning Community however. Much like a FIG, learning communities place you in residence halls that are filled with people also in your major. While you don't necessarily take the same courses, you still have the same career goals. 

Some students also came in with pre-earned credit. This can be from dual credit courses through your local community college, Advanced Placement Scores, and IB program tests. There are also foreign language and math placement exams which may earn you back credit. For students who exempted out of certain classes they have been able to take a lighter schedule. 

No matter how many credits you come in with though, you're still going to have to go to class! Studies show that attendance alone is one of the biggest factors of success for students. I refute this claim though. I've seen students show up to class, but sit like a bump on a log. Here's my friendly, but firm, advice: if you've made the effort to show up for class, make a little extra effort to jot down a few notes! 

If you're worried about the difference between high school and college don't be too afraid. Yes - there is more reading. Yes - lectures can be large and intimidating. But Yes - there are many outlets to help you succeed! It's all about time management. Budgeting the social and the academic. Once you master that, you're on your way to a good G.P.A! 

If you're still struggling though the student success center offers free tutoring in a variety of subjects. This can save hundreds of dollars, so don't overlook it. Also, if you have any type of disability - be it physical or developmental - don't be afraid to speak up! I'm a volunteer note taker in my 20th Century American History class. This means I give my notes to one of my fellow peers, who remains anonymous! Mizzou wants you to succeed and they will support you anyway they can. 

School is supposed to be fun, and for the large part, it is! Pick classes you're genuinely interested in, and in most cases they fill your requirements. You're paying for an education, and University of Missouri definitely makes sure you get a good one!

Here are a few helpful links:

FIG Info

Accepted AP Scores

Disability Services

Game Day!

My high school was notoriously the worst in athletics for our entire district. We had seasons with 0-9 records and games that garnered just as few points. So when I came to Mizzou seeing more than one touchdown (from our team) per game was exciting!! To see them obliterate SEMO 52-3 was unbelievable.

Tiger's Lair at Mizzou is the student cheering section. We all get shirts and become this united mass of enthusiastic gold. Because Tiger's Lair is such a spirited group it's a fact that we get more T.V. time than regular fans! I was so committed to getting into this section that I waited three long hours to get tickets, but let me tell you, it was well worth it!

If you get there early, and I had friends who did, you can get front row seats. Not only do you get a great view, but you get to have your stomachs painted to spell out various words. Don't worry, if you're a girl you can still participate! The girls who live next to me showed up early and said they had a blast - they plan to keep doing it each week. (We'll see how long it lasts for this next game when kick off is at 11:30 a.m. opposed to 5:30 p.m!) 

Throughout the game though all 1,500 members of Tiger's Lair participate in chants, cheers, and songs! You get to know so many people this way, especially because everyone is having a good time. If you're forgetful, like myself, they do put the words on the screen - so fear not! I knew I was a part of the Mizzou Community when we sang our song, united. 

But lets say standing on your feet for hours on end in the student cheering section isn't your style. Might I offer the solution of Marching Mizzou or the Color Guard. More of a dancer? Try Golden Girls or the cheerleading squad. These are all opportunities to actually get involved with the game day festivities. With all of these activities you will get to go to away games as well. My friend Caitlin is in Marching Mizzou and loves it! She says that the daily practices are worth every minute because you're surrounded by fun people. Rachel, across the hall from me, does color guard and help choreograph their next routine - as a freshmen! 

But lets say those four options just aren't doing it for you. You're more of a quirky person who has great bodily expression. My suggestion: Truman the Tiger! That's right, the mascot. It's a chance to be loved by tens of thousands of people each weekend! I'll confess: it's my goal to be in the Truman the Tiger suit at least once before I graduate Mizzou. But it's not all fun and games (well for the most part it is). Truman has to hold his own weight, doing lots of push ups and each game. But if you've got the strength for 30 or so push ups in a giant tiger suit - that's your best bet!

Buy the season tickets, join Tiger's Lair, and invest in gaudy spirit wear - it's worth it!

See you at the game! 

-----

Oh, one final word of wisdom. Farot Field, our football stadium, is pronounced Fa-Row field - not Farrot field. If you were thinking it was Farrot Field, don't worry, you weren't alone; I made that mistake once before too! 

Sisterhood & Sororities

It has begun: the whirlwind known as college life. Two weeks ago I was procrastinating packing up my final belongings, buying extra sheets, and saying goodbye to friends. I had no idea then that MU would be such an exhilarating experience. These last few weeks have been jam-packed with move in, sorority rushing, welcome activities, and, of course, hanging out with all my new friends. Oh, and there may have been some school work in there too!

Because I was participating in sorority rush week (the largest ever at Mizzou with over 1,000 girls) I was able to move in a few days earlier than others. Quick word of advice on move in: come early and be prepared for the long haul. My family and I arrived right on time, 10:00 sharp. Already though, people’s belongings were piled high waiting to be transported to their new home. Overall though, the experience wasn’t as bad as I feared it would be. We got a cart right away, and only had to make a few trips. In a matter of hours my dorm went from drab to fab!

Sorority rushing began the next day with a bang! There were about 70 girls in my rush group and we all had to line up alphabetically. Anxiously we waited for the blowhorn to sound, at which point the sorority house doors would swing open to chanting girls. The first two days progress with excited singing and lots of socials. You spend 25 minutes talking to several girls from each chapter, as you get to know them and vise versa.

Rush week progressed with more socials. Eventually though the preferencing process had to begin – after all, you can’t join 14 sororities. After the first two days you would start to narrow down your choices for which houses you would like to visit. After the open house round there was Skit Day. This was where you could get a sense of each house’s sense of humor. Next up was philanthropy day, which showcased each sorority’s individual charity. The conclusion of rush week ended with preference day, where you get all dressed up. It’s a serious day, filled with stories from girls in the chapter. By this point most girls have made up their mind and proceed to make their final selections.

My friend Lauren and I on Preference Day!

The night before bid day some characterize by restlessness, but is definitely worth the anticipation. On Saturday morning, after a week filled with sisterhood, all the girls gather on the quads. In unison, everyone opens their bid day cards. After the grand reveal the chapters take you back to the house.  

Throughout the week I got to meet so many cool girls. My opinion of the week was that of even if you have NO intention of joining a sorority you should go through rush week. It is such a fun experience and opens you up to so many different girls you probably wouldn’t have met anyway. Even if you’re not feeling like a social butterfly, it’s still worth it so you can move in early and beat the rush!

Oh! In case you’re wondering… I pledged Phi Mu!

Quick Facts about Greek Life at Mizzou:
• Students in Greek Life are more involved on campus than non-greek students
• There are 14 Panhallenic sororities here at Mizzou (with the recent addition of Tri-Sig)
• The average G.P.A. of Greek students is higher than that of non-greek students
• All Greek Life members are required to take Greek2Greek, which is a class that encourages responsible living

For more information visit: www.mugreeklife.com