As I finish my fifth week of class this semester, I’m realizing that I am really enjoying my courses, so I wanted to give my fellow students some insight about courses I’d recommend. We have a lot of CORE courses as options, and I’ve been personally conflicted over which ones to take, so take a look at a list of some of my favorite courses I’ve taken at Manchester!

Creative Writing:
I’m currently in this course this semester. It’s not a CORE class, but if you need a class to fulfill credits or fill space in your schedule, I’d recommend this class. The coursework isn’t demanding, and I personally find it really interesting to be able to read awesome pieces of writing and attempt to write my own. As an English major, I’m really into that kind of thing, so if you want to explore your creative side, give it a chance! Also, Beate Gilliar (typically) teaches the course, so you can’t go wrong there!

Women in the Visual Arts:
Another course I’m currently enrolled in, but it’s been great from the beginning. The content (and art) is fascinating, but the values taught in the course also really reflect what Manchester’s values mean to me. A large aspect of the course involves understanding the social and economic biases found in art history, but those concepts can apply to almost anything, which is what I really enjoy about it. As a woman, it’s very interesting to learn about the reasons why art has been a male-dominated practice. I don’t know if Professor Oke teaches it every time, but she’s also amazing and I love her teaching style.

Language and Thought:
This Communication Studies course has really helped with my understanding and evaluation of situations and people. I took it online during January, so I didn’t get the full classroom experience, but the content was great in that it requires you to really think about how and why others act or react the way they do. I think that I’ve become a more thoughtful person, because sometimes it’s hard to remember that others have outside forces affecting them which may affect you secondhand. This course is really great for learning these approaches to communicating well with others, and the content is easy to understand.

Nature Hiking:
It was really hard to decide what final course to include here, but I know for other non-athletes like me, it can be hard finding an enjoyable PE class. I thought that Nature Hiking was a great choice for PE because you get to travel off campus, see pretty, local landscapes, and get some fresh air. The exercise is bearable (if you’re like me and hate sweating) and the locations are fun, especially for how short of drives we took. I’d definitely recommend signing up with a friend or several, because it was a million times more fun taking the class and getting to go on mini adventures with my friends.

I’ve enjoyed almost every class I’ve taken, so this list is just a short review. Not everyone may enjoy these courses like I do/did, but I had great experiences in them and they have really made me appreciate Manchester’s version of a liberal arts degree, because my education includes many diverse topics. I hope you find positive experiences in these classes as well! 

As you may or may not know, a hobby of mine that I picked up two summers ago is playing guitar! I took a guitar class in high school where I learned 4 chords, and almost everything else I know is from YouTube. I know that a couple people around campus want to learn to play guitar and that some are just now beginning, so I wanted to give you guys some good links to use! The first video is an introduction to guitar, the second video are chords that if you learn you will be able to play hundreds of songs, and all the other videos are easy songs for beginners to learn! When I wanted to learn more songs, I just searched for ones that I wanted to learn, or I searched something like “acoustic guitar songs” or “country acoustic guitar lessons.” I do want you to remember this: it will take a little while to learn, so just give it time and keep practicing!

If you’re brand new to guitar, this video will teach you about the guitar along with a couple chords: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llNuwhZWXKA

Chords A Major through G Major: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAlyjGrThGo

• The most common chords are G major, D major, E minor, and C major. Learn these and you’ll be able to play hundreds of songs! If you learn some the others, you’ll just be able to play more.

   

  Riptide- Vance Joy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vRWKGNbciQ

• Depending on what key you want, you can put the capo on either the 5^th or 6^th fret.

Brown Eyed Girl- Van Morrison: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlJNPj9CJBQ

Let It Be- The Beatles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCTpcFTicf4

• Don’t worry about all the runs he does unless you really want to spice up your playing! They are just extras! Also, sometimes the capo is put on the 5^th fret.

Free Fallin’- Tom Petty: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQSEaBT3P-A

• I recommend playing this with a capo on the 3^rd fret to match the recording.

Hallelujah- Jeff Beckley: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mzm1enk7W4Y

• In this video, he also teaches how to fingerpick the song. So, if you’re wanting to challenge yourself, this is a good song to practice once you have to chord shapes down and memorized!

Nick Rush ’20 is studying Sports Management and plans on minoring in another business area. He plays baseball for MU, and he plans on working in the sports industry after graduation.

In a world that revolves around technology, sometimes it is difficult to imagine what there is to do when we don’t have access to something we all take for granted. With winter months nearing, it’s important to understand that power outages do happen. While it may be a nuisance, in the case that there is a simple power outage on campus, there is no need to worry. Manchester University takes the safety and health of students very seriously, so that isn’t an aspect that most MU students fear during power outages. What they do fear, though, is the excruciating boredom that comes with living without the advanced technology that we have grown up with and gotten used to. So, whether it’s because of natural causes or something as inconvenient and utterly annoying as electrical maintenance/repairs, ease your mind during the next power outage by trying some of these activities:

1) Read a Good Book

Start that new book that you’ve been dying to read but just haven’t seem to find the time lately to do so yet! Contrary to common belief, there are still people that enjoy reading for leisure, and there are also still books that don’t require a tablet or an App Store to access. After all, we are at a college, so the excuse of lacking resources won’t apply here. And yes, you can even try actually doing your assigned reading for class (for once) during this down time. A list of the most popular books out right now can be found here, just in case of the unlikely chances that a random power outage would unexpectedly appear in the very near future.

2) Be Social!

In the instance of a non-threatening power outage situation, while annoyance levels may be high, the levels of danger are at zero, so there is no reason to hide in a shell. As a residential campus, Manchester provides its students with a plethora of neighbors to chat with. Whether it’s Garver or Helman, each hall will have a variety of Spartans for you to relax with, so go meet some new friends! Being social during a power outage can involve anything from catching up with the latest gossip, to playing your favorite board game or card game.

3) Do Your Body a Favor

You never really seem to get a chance to catch your breath during college, which means that for a lot us, we get sucked into the rat race of life and often times neglect our bodies. In a high-stress environment like college life, exercise can be extremely beneficial for peace of mind, confidence, and mainly just overall health. When we forget to take care of our bodies, it just slows us down even more, which is the last thing students can afford with everything going on. Without the distraction of electronics, there is no better time for a run than during a power outage. Considering what the cause of the outage is and weather-permitting, this could be a great opportunity to get some cardio in. For those who rather live without power for the rest of your life than even think about putting running shoes on, there is a less-sweaty alternative. While running may be a mental getaway for some, it can also be a mental nightmare for others. That’s okay, because if you prefer to ease your mind in another way, consider planning out the week ahead. By sitting down and physically writing out when certain assignments are due, where you have to be at certain times, and actually constructing an hourly schedule of your week, you will be able to remove some of the stress that you would’ve had otherwise. Empty weekly schedule templates can always be found in the Success Center, or yearly planners can be purchased in the bookstore. So, whether it be going on a jog or filling in a planner, a power outage may present an excellent opportunity to take advantage of some alone time and get your mind right. 

Nathan Timmerman ’18 is a marketing and sales double major and entrepreneurship minor. Aside from his involvement in the College of Business, he enjoys volunteering in his free time. Lord willing, Nathan’s post-graduation plan is to build his career in the business industry. 

“The value of an education in a liberal arts college is not the learning of many facts but the training of the mind to think something that cannot be learned from textbooks." - Albert Einstein

When I came to Manchester, I knew it was a liberal arts college – but I didn’t know what that meant.  I knew liberal arts colleges required their students to take classes across multiple disciplines, but I wasn’t sure what the liberal arts actually were. I quickly learned, and realized the importance of a liberal arts education. Today I am so thankful to be at an institution where the liberal arts are valued.

The term “liberal arts” sounds political, but it’s not. In antiquity, the liberal arts were subjects considered necessary for a free person to know in order to take an active role in society. Grammar, logic, and rhetoric were initially considered to be the core liberal arts, but literature, philosophy, and the social sciences are also referred to as liberal arts subjects.

Our liberal arts program, the Manchester CORE (which I’m sure you’re all familiar with!), is comprised of sixteen classes, plus four gym classes. The CORE is designed to allow a student to explore his or her interests while still studying under the umbrella of a liberal arts curriculum. For example, within our Integration into the World section, there are three requirements. A student must take 3 classes, one being a Global Connections, one being a Responsible Citizenship, and the last can be either of the two. To fulfill this demand, the student can choose from over 20 classes across 13 disciplines for the RC, and from more than 40 classes across 16 disciplines for the GC. These subjects include courses in Exercise Science, Economics, and even Finance. Even within an individual discipline’s requirements there are still many options. For example, in Religious Studies there are eight classes that fulfill the CORE, and in History there are eleven. These are perfect examples of how flexible our CORE truly is.

Over the course of my own liberal arts education (which has only been four full semesters), my mind has truly been opened. I’ve taken classes in sociology, education, physics, Spanish, philosophy, and astronomy – this definitely does not sound like the typical transcript of a history and religious studies major. These classes have had a profound impact on me. Sociology opened my eyes to inequities in the world I never knew existed. I’m incredibly bad at science, but physics gave me a better understanding of the universe’s mechanics. (Plus, Dr. Clark was a pretty cool professor!) My history and religion classes are my favorites, but the classes outside of my major often fascinate me just as much. Liberal arts courses are challenging, but ultimately, they’re incredibly rewarding. It’s exciting (but simultaneously terrifying) to go into a class you’re unfamiliar with, but emerge more confident and knowledgeable in a subject.

I know a liberal arts education benefits any major. But, my opinion is biased, since I mainly study both a subject within the humanities and a social science. So, I spoke to some other Manchester students to hear their opinions on the CORE:

Athletic training major Haley Farris ’20 credits MU’s CORE program with helping develop both her objective and subjective academic perspectives. In the sciences she often uses a quantitative approach, whereas in her CORE courses she has learned to draw upon her own thoughts and experiences, in addition to facts, before coming to conclusions. The Manchester CORE, Haley says, has taught her to face challenges with a much more open mind, and introduced her to various problem-solving strategies.

Mikayla Patterson ’19, an athletic training major, describes her Introduction to Religious Studies class with Dr. Eisenbise Crell as leaving the most lasting impression upon her. “I learned that Jews, Christians, and Muslims all worship the same God. This is something I most likely never would have known had it not been for this class. The class really opened my eyes to different parts of religions that I never knew existed.” 

Annie Barce ’19, a biology-chemistry major, says, “As a STEM major with plans to become a doctor of osteopathic medicine, I highly value the liberal arts training I have received from Manchester. Skills in research, speaking, writing, and critical thinking continue to be cultivated in students that will prove to be immensely beneficial in every discipline as they pursue careers and professional education. This summer, I was fortunate enough to intern with a Manchester alumnus who is now a physician. When discussing our shared fondness for MU, he repeatedly stressed to me the significance of his courses outside of the natural sciences, emphasizing the practicality of courses such as sociology and economics. This has remained with me as I begin my junior year, reminding me of how advantageous a liberal arts training is in a professional realm. I am wholly grateful for an institution that has granted me the opportunity to pursue a pre-professional education while taking classes that contribute to my development as an aware and well-informed citizen.”

I am thankful to be receiving a liberal arts education at Manchester. I love the curriculum and the faculty, and I am grateful for the academic support available. I know that when I graduate I’ll be able to lead a principled, productive, and compassionate life. My liberal arts education will be one of the biggest reasons why.

Thanks so much for reading!
Maddy 

Maddy Minehart '19 is a history and religious studies double major. A member of the women's basketball team and heavily involved on campus, her dream job is to be a history professor.

Here is a link that describe Manchester’s CORE: https://www.manchester.edu/academics/AcademicandStudentAffairs/the-manchester-core

Here is a link that lists each class that fulfills a CORE requirement: https://www.manchester.edu/academics/registrar/catalog-bulletin/catalog/undergraduate-catalog-2017-2018/academic-program/core-program-requirements

A few links explaining the importance of a liberal arts education:

• http://www.acenet.edu/the-presidency/columns-and-features/Pages/Myth-A-Liberal-Arts-Education-Is-Becoming-Irrelevant.aspx
• https://www.forbes.com/sites/willarddix/2016/11/16/a-liberal-arts-degree-is-more-important-than-ever/#4fd914e4339f
• http://www.businessinsider.com/mark-cuban-liberal-arts-is-the-future-2017-2
• https://www.forbes.com/sites/realspin/2014/09/05/employees-who-stand-out/#bf783d269b0e

Sources

Benowitz, Jean-Paul. “The Momentum Program.” Elizabethtown College. 2017. Accessed September 26, 2017. https://www.etown.edu/programs/momentum/

Christ, Carol T. “Myth: A Liberal Arts Education Is Becoming Irrelevant.” American Council on Education. 2012. Accessed September 26, 2017, http://www.acenet.edu/the-presidency/columns-and-features/Pages/Myth-A-Liberal-Arts-Education-Is-Becoming-Irrelevant.aspx

Dix, Willard. “A Liberal Arts Degree Is More Important Than Ever.” Forbes. November 16, 2016. Accessed September 26, 2017, https://www.forbes.com/sites/willarddix/2016/11/16/a-liberal-arts-degree-is-more-important-than-ever/#42dbad2e339f

Learn.org. “What Does Liberal Arts Mean?” Accessed September 26, 2017, http://learn.org/articles/What_Does_Liberal_Arts_Mean.html

I’m not going to lie, coming up with a topic for this post is going to be a struggle. So, like most college students at one time or another, I’m just going to wing it. I’ve been thinking a lot about life lately; being back on campus after a semester abroad feels like freshman year all over again. My last semester on campus – Fall 2016 – I went through a really rough time, and it made me turn my life upside down. I went from an Accounting and Spanish double major to a Spanish Secondary Ed major with minors in TESOL and Business. It’s a big switch, but honestly, I don’t think I could be any happier with my decision.

The jump from the very formal business environment to a more informal setting in the education department is something that I used to think would be absolutely terrifying – new people, new professors, and entirely different assignments. Now, I look forward to my daily 8:00am’s and all of the different opportunities to get involved in the department. That’s one of the many things I love about this school. Students are never discouraged from going after their dreams, and no one is going to make them feel bad if they change their mind about their major. As Pres Dave said at Opening Convocation this past August, “Manchester is a place where students are encouraged to be their best selves.” I couldn’t agree more, sir.

Ever since I joined the Education Department, I’ve been trying to participate as much as possible. A couple of weeks ago, a group of us went down to Noblesville and volunteered at the Indiana State Reading Conference. We got to meet different presenters, as well as sit on a few lectures. My degree may not be in reading or English, but I have some ideas on how I could implement some of the strategies I learned at the conference in my Spanish classes one day. Our pre-professional club – Student Education Association (SEA) – also sponsors a lot of fun events, like organizing events for consumers at the local ARC Center, doing volunteer work within the Manchester Community, and attending fall conference in Noblesville. No matter what part of the educational process you want to work in, SEA has something for everyone.

As much as I love the Education Department, it’s not the biggest part of my life right now. That spot’s been reserved for homework, my friends and family, and figuring out where I’m going to travel to next. My grades are better than they have been for years, and my family is as supportive as ever. Regarding the whole “travelling” thing, however, that’s still up in the air. I’ve been looking into the Pathways volunteer program that helps send students all over the US – and even sometimes overseas – as a way to do my TESOL practicum, but the jury’s still out on that one. I’d love to go back to Europe, and perhaps teach English to students in Germany. It’s still the beginning stages, but I’m hoping things work out with it.

Like its beginning, I’m not all too sure about how to end this post. So, I’ll just leave you with a quote seems to sum it up pretty well: “Find your pot of gold, and sit on it.” – John Gardner. I’ve found my pot of gold in a teaching profession; where will you find yours?


Becca Kaplan ’19, is a Spanish Secondary Education major with minors in TESOL and Business. As a commuter student, she spends most of her time on campus either studying, watching Netflix, or writing her next blog post. When classes are not in session, Becca usually travels, either visiting her parents in Florida, or her extended family in St. Louis.

It’s finally here, senior year. Ugh. For those new to the Spartan Blog series or forgot who I am, my name is Zander Willoughby, the one who was in France last year. I am a senior Political Science & French major with a minor in Peace Studies. This year, I’m not quite as involved on campus as years previous, but that doesn’t make me any less busy.

As a brief introduction, I’m a Multicultural Affairs Programmer, Social Media Coordinator and Liaison to United Sexualities & Genders in the Office of Multicultural Affairs (@OMAatMU ), cue the shameless plug of our mission statement:

The Office of Multicultural Affairs (housed in the Intercultural Center) is designed to provide enriched social, cultural and educational experiences for ethnically diverse students as well as opportunities for all members of the campus community to learn about the heritage and culture of these traditionally under-represented groups. This mission is accomplished via sponsored programs designed to raise awareness, foster cross-cultural interaction and exchange, increase understanding and ultimately encourage a "global perspective" on education.

I also serve on Student Senate, the Academic Integrity Panel, and am active in Peace Studies.

Currently, I’m working on my Fulbright application to Morocco. I’m applying for a research grant where I would like to study migration in and through Morocco. They say you should send in your application and then go on with your life as if you’d never applied (since the odds of getting it are so low), BUT I’M SO EXCITED!

Stay tuned for thoughts on return culture shock, study abroad recaps, more OMA plugs, and more!


Zander E. Willoughby ’18 is a Political Science & French major & Peace Studies minor, a Multicultural Affairs Programmer, and more. He is currently in his last year at Manchester and painfully aware of that fact every day. He is currently learning French and Arabic, loves cooking and amateur photography. His future plans include pursuing a Master's in International Affairs in the hopes of working with Migration, Refugee Affairs, and Human Rights.

1. Roads/Driving – Everyone drives on the opposite side of the road! And while I already knew this before coming over, it is much harder to adjust to than I assumed. Every time I am on a bus (on the left side of the road) I am utterly convinced we will be in a car accident. Knowing my luck, I will probably get so used to this that I will have a hard time driving when I get back home…*face palm*
2. Drinking – Alcohol is a very large part of Irish culture, much more so than in America. It is not uncommon to go out to a pub or a club every evening or at least a few times a week.
3. Friends From Other Countries – This is not Irish specific, but it is specific to my own personal situation. In my apartment, I have many other international students so I have made some great friends from Germany, Finland, and Barcelona! It is fascinating for all of us to learn each other’s cultures whilst trying to assimilate into Irish life.
4. Laid Back – Irish life is much more go-with-the-flow than it is in the states and it is quite

   enjoyable! If any of you know me, you know that I am NOT a naturally laid back person, I’m basically a little ball of stress and energy, but I am definitely trying my best to go with the flow! Wish me luck!

5. No Tax and No Tipping – Tax is already figured into the prices here so if a price says €6, you just pay exactly €6. And anywhere you go, especially pubs and waiters, there is no tipping! In fact, it is almost a little rude to tip, as if you are assuming they are poor and do not make enough money. Oh, and you know how coins are mainly just seen as annoying in the US? Well not here! Coins are so awesome and helpful, especially because they have a coin for €1 and €2 so the coins actually amount to something.
6. Travel/Country Size – Ireland itself, as a whole country, has less people than the state of Indiana. There are many villages around the country that have as few as 10-15 people and a couple pubs. (There is basically a pub for every two people!) Also, traveling by bus or train, you can travel across the length or width of the entire country in less than 5 hours! It’s totally rad! Travel is super cheap and easy, you just purchase a ‘leap card,’ get on the bus or train, scan the card, and go!
7. Gender – So far, there does not appear to be tons of sexism or huge gender differences. In my apartment, we have 3 girls and 2 guys who share a living room and kitchen, when at Manchester, there is not much co-ed living.
8. Walking – We walk everywhere! None of us have a car so we just walk wherever we go. The only time you get transportation is if you are going a far distance and it would be far too much to walk.
9. Anonymity – Coming to a large campus after attending a small one for two years is quite a jump! I feel so anonymous here! I could practically run through campus in the nude and nobody would know (don’t worry everyone, I will not be running through campus naked…it’s much too cold! Just kidding 😊) It is partly sad to not know many people, but it is also a nice little break, in a way, because I can just observe everyone without having to stop and talk every 10 seconds!

I hope everyone back home is having such a swell day! Cheers!

-Delaney, Amateur Adventurer

Hey, Spartans! Classes are starting to take their toll and the first wave of exams have just passed. I, along with all of you, need some good spots to study around town! Here is a list of my favorite spots to take get some much needed studying accomplished!

1. Academic Center Conference Room: The small conference rooms at the end of the office hall ways in the Academic Center are perfect. Most are equipped with big white boards, a computer & projector, and a large table to spread out.
2. Flory Auditorium: This is a great place to study at night with a group of friends. It is large enough that everyone can spread out and work together. The large, moveable white boards are perfect to continue working on a long calc problem or for synthesizing an organic problem without having to erase your previous work. There is also a computer and speakers to play music overhead for any necessary jam session study breaks!
3. Dorm Room: You have to be careful because this one can be very distracting, but sometimes cuddling up in your PJs to review your notes is the best way to go!
4. KenapocoMocha: Grab some friends and a cup of coffee. This little spot off campus is the perfect place to get away and get some studying done.
5. Haist Commons: When Haist isn’t bustling about for lunch hour, it’s a nice quiet place to get some studying done with good ole John Mayer playing in the background.
6. Grand’s Ice Cream: I know, I know. This isn’t a place to study, but it’s the perfect place for a quick study break. The ice cream is delicious and a really great price!
7. 3^rd Floor Science Center: Whether it’s the large open space opposite the stairs, the p-chem classroom, or the study rooms at the end of the hall, you really can’t go wrong on 3^rd floor of the Science Center. The big open windows let in lots of light to brighten the mood… and people watching can be kind of fun too.
8. Library: As cliché as this one sounds, it’s true. You can rent out big white boards, small study rooms, and laptops. Everything you need to study is there!

Katie Byers '18 is a biology-chemistry major & business minor. A member of MAC and STAT, she studied abroad in New Zealand, and her dream job is to work at an orthopedic hospital. 

Here at Manchester, we like to host mixers for different job industries. From these mixers, our students get information about potential internships or future careers. I wanted to provide tips for anyone who has never attended a mixer or for those who just want some advice to make their time a little better!

• It’s practice! It’s practice just speaking with employers, seeing what positions they’re looking for, the qualities they’re interested in, your handshake and smile, etc.
• Networking. Though you may not be interested now doesn’t mean you won’t be in the future. If you give them a business card, resumé, or another reason to remember you, it could work out in your favor later on.
• Look professional. You never know what kind of conversations you’ll have, so all of them could be important; some could even act as an interview or a pre-interview. It’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
• Plan your attack. If you have access to the layout of the mixer, plan your route. It’ll help save time by choosing where you want to go when in the room. It’ll also prevent you from looking lost. If you don’t have access, there will most likely be a map when you get to the mixer. It’s okay to take a few minutes to plan out your route.
• Prepare for your attack. If you have access to the companies attending, do research on the companies and develop questions. This will show that you’re interested in the company and could set you apart from others who ask what the company does.
• It’s a great time to observe. If you’re new to mixers or just talking to employers in general, it may not be a bad idea to ask an experienced friend to hang out with them and see what questions they ask and how they compose themselves while speaking. Also, listen to their personal sales pitch, how they talk about themselves, in 30-60 seconds.
• Take notes. If you talk to several companies, you probably won’t remember every detail. Writing down things they say that you think may be important when reviewing your notes is never a bad idea. The things you write may influence a decision afterwards. Also, it may not be a bad idea to write down information about the person you speak to; i.e. physical features, job position, and/or years with company.
• Show interest. Being interested in the people that are there more than just the company and its position openings will take a toll on who you speak with. They’ll more often than not remember a person who was interested in them and the company than just the company itself.
• The only sounds should be voices. This is a simple one that some people could forget. Cell phones, laptops, iPads, etc. should either be turned vibrate, silent, or off. It’s pretty embarrassing when talking to an employer and having your phone keep dinging.
• Time is of the essence. This means two things: time with the employer and time without the other employers. The time you spend with one employer is time taken away from the others. While you’re with one, get all the quality information you can, but only do it in a couple minutes. You may really like one, but your third or fourth choice may offer you the best position.
• Follow up. If you’re really interested, send them a quick email a day or two after the event. Thank them for their time and clarify that you enjoyed speaking to them and are interested in possibly pursuing a career with them in the future.
• The handshake. It’s simple, yet so important. A firm handshake and a friendly smile will go a long way. 

Nick Rush ’20 is studying Sports Management and plans on minoring in another business area. He plays baseball for MU, and he plans on working in the sports industry after graduation.

It is now halfway through September, which means classes have begun and summer is slowly transitioning into fall. While the sunshine and beach days may be missed, there are plenty of fun activities to appreciate in the fall! There are plenty of local opportunities for seasonal adventures that give a much-needed study break.   Here are my top 5 favorite fall activities that are a must for Manchester students:

1) Go Picking

Visiting an apple orchard or a pumpkin patch is one of my personal favorites when it comes to having some fall fun. Not only do you get to eat some seasonal treats, but you also get to enjoy the experience of actually picking the fruit with your friends. Although fresh apples are delicious alone, they can also be used in plenty of seasonal recipes like apple pies, caramel apples, or apple dumplings. Pumpkins are great for cooking as well, not just for the pies, but the seeds can also be roasted in the oven for a tasty snack. Also, don’t forget about displaying your favorite carved pumpkin!

2) Attend a Concert

A common escape from homework for many college students is music, so why not see your favorite artist live? Plus, the weather around this time of year in Indiana makes for a perfect outdoor concert at venues like Klipsch or a local fall fair/festival. Concerts are the perfect kind of event to attend in groups, and sometimes you can get a group discount if you purchase a certain number of tickets. Even if the artist isn’t necessarily your favorite, many concerts offer a fun atmosphere that is still positive and enjoyable regardless of who is performing.

3) Show Your School Spirit!

Come out and support your fellow Spartans! Not only do you get to watch Manchester University compete in the NCAA in a variety of different sports, but it’s also free to attend!  For those who want to do something fun but rather stay on campus, attending a Manchester sporting event provides you with quality entertainment while being only a walking distance away. Cheering on the athletic teams is a blast when you do it in a group, so come join our mascot Manny in representing the Black & Gold! If you really want to pump up Spartan athletes, consider gathering a group to travel to away games together; road trips are fun, plus what’s better than watching the Anderson get beat at home?

4) Grab Some Coffee

We all know that with fall comes the pumpkin flavored beverages. If going to the pumpkin patch didn’t quite satisfy your entire pumpkin craving, then consider trying the Pumpkin Spice Latte at Sisters Café on campus. If you’re looking for a more remote location, check out KenapocoMocha in town. Coffee shops are great little getaways if you’re looking to just set up shop somewhere and study your day away. KenapocoMocha is a cute coffee shop that is also very serious about being friendly to the environment. Grabbing some joe doesn’t always have to be a lonely event, though, because nothing is cuter than a coffee date during the fall season.

5) Check Out a Haunted House

No, I didn’t forget that Halloween is in the fall. For those who are braver than I am, an ideal fall activity could very well be a night filled with fright. I mean, to be fair, what’s more fitting than going to a haunted house during this time of year? Even if haunted houses/jails/schools aren’t exactly up your alley, sometimes that is what turns out to be best part about this daring fall choice. No matter the age, it seems like haunted houses never really get old. And, for some odd reason, scary events have the tendency to be a common date idea. But if that’s not the case, then I would recommend at least bringing a group of friends, unless you’re feeling particularly courageous this fall.

Nathan Timmerman ’18 is a marketing and sales double major and entrepreneurship minor. Aside from his involvement in the College of Business, he enjoys volunteering in his free time. Lord willing, Nathan’s post-graduation plan is to build his career in the business industry. 

Hi! My name is Maddy Minehart, and I am a new student blogger this year. Since this is my first blog, I think a good way to get to know me is to learn how much I love MU. To give you an idea of why, here are some of my favorite things about Manchester:

1. Campus
Our campus is beautiful! The flowers, our buildings, the mall – taking a walk around campus will easily brighten anyone’s day.

The fountain behind the Administration Building (shaded by Manchester’s signature tall oak trees) is a serene spot on campus. 


View from Petersime Chapel, looking out onto the Mall.

2. People
Undoubtedly my favorite part of Manchester! And to me, the most important piece of the University. Without its faculty and staff, MU would not be what it is. The Manchester community works incessantly to create connections and bonds with students, all while educating and preparing them for their futures. Manchester students are lucky to study at an institution where they are cared for so much. 

Two great members of MU's faculty - Dr. Kate Eisenbise Crell and Dr. Heather Schilling

3. Athletics
As a student-athlete (Go MUWBB!), I am an avid sports fan. I love watching all our teams compete and win. Whether it be soccer, wrestling, or track and field, Spartan athletic teams compete with intensity, integrity, and pride. It is a privilege to represent your school, so wearing a Manchester jersey is very important to me. Our athletic department, coaches, and fans are incredibly supportive and dedicated. Being an athlete here is an amazing experience!

I hope this gives you an insight as to why I love Manchester University so much! I am excited to share my experiences and thoughts this year with you all through this blog. Thanks so much for reading!  


Maddy Minehart '19 is a history and religious studies double major. A member of the women's basketball team and heavily involved on campus, her dream job is to be a history professor.

Last week, I went to the VIA about religious differences, called “Sisters of Story,” if I remember correctly. It was about three women with three different belief systems: Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. I was sitting about ten rows back, kind of towards the aisle, with one of my friends. About halfway through the presentation, I heard snickers and giggles coming from behind me; these three girls were disrespecting the entire event. For all that Manchester does to include everyone, encouraging all us Spartans to “be our best selves,” it’s a shame that some people want to stay stuck in the past.

After that encounter, it got me thinking about myself, and of my cultural background/experience. My name is Becca Grace Kaplan, and I am Caucasian; my dad’s family is Greek and German, while my mom’s side is split between Irish and Native American. I have a lot of different backgrounds, and my family is very big into their ancestry – especially the Greek part. I love being who I am, and partaking in different religious and cultural events. Being at a place like Manchester, though, that’s almost just as awesome. When I’m here, I can be whoever I want to be, and nobody will care. You see, the Manchester Spartan family is full of different people. We have students here from all over the world, practicing several different religions and cultures. Students have a place where they can be themselves, and can share who they are without worrying about being judged. I love how inclusive this campus is, and how much it values individual worth and success. Everyone, from Pres Dave, to the Chartwells workers, to our fellow classmates, wants to see us achieve our goals and do great things in life; not everyone gets that at home.

The VIA was powerful. Personally, I was moved to see three people be so proud of their religion, and to hear them tell the stories that made them grow in their faith. In some parts of the world, and even in the United States, people are sometimes afraid to speak out and share their beliefs in fear of persecution or discrimination. For anyone who may feel that way, know that I am here; I will not treat you any different just because of how you look or what you believe in. Just because a tiny sliver of our community doesn’t respect these differences, it doesn’t mean the entire community is the same way.

As I’ve said before, Manchester is a family. We are a close-knit group, and as much as we can dislike each other sometimes, in the end there’s no place we’d rather study. Some of us even wish we could stay at MU forever, we love it so much. It’s going to be a wonderful year on campus, everyone. Let’s try to make the most of it! Until next time. - B

Knowing that I’ll be graduating in May, a whole year earlier than I planned on, it has been an odd experience seeing all the new students on campus. It seems like just last week I was one of those first-years walking across campus and signing up for first-year workshops. Now, I’m in my Senior Seminar with one of the very first professors I met before I began my first year at Manchester, and I keep thinking about what has changed and how fast this journey has gone by.

When time goes by, we never feel much different than we think we did in the past. I am a different person than I was three years ago, but I’m also the same. I just grew a little bit. And if I’m being honest, I am really proud of the person I’ve grown to be. I know that I will continue growing throughout my last year at Manchester, too, but I’m excited for the result. But all of this thinking about graduation just reminds me of all of my favorite memories on campus, and I hope I never forget them.

I remember taking my first English class, with Beate, and knowing I was in the right place. Now, I look back on the class and smile, because so many of my friends were in that class, but they just hadn’t become my friends yet.

I remember my FYS professor, Dr. Planer (retired), being one of the very first people at Manchester to show just how literally we live out our values here, being a kind of supportive person that I needed. As I write this, more memories come back to me, and I remember emailing daily back and forth with Dr. Planer before my first semester had even started. I hadn’t even met him yet, but he was already showing kindness and concern for me. I will always remember the times I sat in his office and he would look at me with such a genuine look, ask me how I was, how I really was, and I just burst into tears for no known reason. It was just seeing the utter look of care on his face—it always overwhelmed me, but in a good way, and that is what Manchester means for me.

I remember getting my first on-campus job, at the Writing Center. It was the perfect job for me, and still is, and I was so excited when I got offered a position at the end of my first year. I’ve met so many people and made friends just by working here, and it’s so satisfying being able to help my peers improve their work.

I remember all the fun shenanigans my friends and I would do for fun, like watching the small animals in the Science Center and setting up a Ouija board but being too afraid to use it. I remember my best friend carrying me across the mall as we headed toward one of the dances on campus; I had heels on and we were running late. I remember stare-offs with squirrels who were a little too social, and long nights spent in the library during finals week. I remember interviewing what seems like a million people for the Oak Leaves, and learning more about this community than I would’ve imagined.

Overall, this place has changed me. Of course I’ve grown on my own, but I’ve learned more about the world than I could’ve imagined, and I’m grateful to attend a school that only makes me eager to learn more.


Ciara Knisely ’18 is an English-Creative Writing major and Journalism minor, and hopes to continue her writing career in the future. She spends her time working at the Writing Center on campus and is a Co-Editor of the Oak Leaves newspaper.  

1. Place a command strip with a hook on your bedframe. You will be able to hang an extension cord on it so that you can charge your phone and lay in bed at the same time!
2. Take advantage of Haist Common’s to-go boxes. They are a lifesaver! Food on the go at any time… and the boxes are huge. You definitely will get plenty to eat.
3. First years, I know remembering where all your classes are for the first few weeks can be difficult. Take a screenshot of your schedule and set it as your lock screen on your phone. You’ll always have it with you and it will be super easy to take a quick peek while you’re on your way to class.
4. Set your phone to “Do not disturb.” I promise this will come in handy while you are trying to study.
5. Get a calendar. As obvious as that sounds, you really need one. Take your syllabi from all your classes and write down every single important date. Stay true to your planner and never forget an assignment again!
6. Use your ID card for student discounts. There are many stores around you wouldn’t think about asking for a discount. Some of them include Subway, Amazon Prime, Spotify, Apple, Chick-Fil-A, Dairy Queen, & Chipotle. 
7. Get to know your professors. I promise this will help you out in the long run. This is Manchester after all. Every professor wants to get to know you & help you succeed.
8. Have one folder for homework. I have found it helpful to put all my homework in one folder. Anything that needs to be turned in for class goes in the same folder, regardless of the class. This cuts my chances of bringing the wrong folder and causing me to have a late assignment.
9. Find a “go-to” professor. I am a bio-chem major, but my go-to professors are from the education department. They will help you through ANYTHING.
10. Have fun. This is college and it will go by so FAST. Know that sometimes, it is okay to push off studying to hang out with friends or eat that ice cream cone for the second time that day. As long as you keep everything in moderation & limit yourself to splurging every once in a while, you will be fine. Have a great semester, Spartans!

Katie Byers '18 is a biology-chemistry major & business minor. A member of MAC and STAT, she studied abroad in New Zealand, and her dream job is to work at an orthopedic hospital. 

IT’S ALMOST TIME!!! Move in day is so close! This year I know what to expect from all my classes and professors, my coaches, and I already have a great group of friends. This time last year though, I was excited and nervous at the same time. I didn’t know what to expect from anyone, nor did I have any friends here yet. Some of us here at MU want to make your move in day a little bit easier than when we moved in. Here are some great tips I think will be useful; the last couple are from other MU students!

• Be aware of what you can and cannot bring! This link from the MU website will tell you what you can and cannot bring, room dimensions, and hall amenities: https://www.manchester.edu/student-life/student-experience-center/residential-life-home/new-student-information/residence-hall-planning-information
• For mini-fridges and any heavy items, bring a dolly if you have access to one.
• Check your room before moving things in. If you want to rearrange your room, you won’t have anything in your way!
• Make sure you tape drawers shut on storage bins, nightstands, etc. so they don’t slide open.
• If anything isn’t in working condition in the room, make sure you take a picture of it so you don’t get charged for breaking it.
• At home, pack how you’ll want to unload. If you want to get the heavy stuff in your room first, pack it last and vice versa.
• Put trash bags around any hanging clothes. They won’t get dirty on the trip to campus, and you won’t have to waste time hanging them back up!
• Bring in rugs first! This was a personal mistake that cost me an extra 20 minutes of re-moving items to put the rug down.
• Plan where you’ll want the TV. If you have a cable cord, make sure your TV will reach the box. This will prevent having to buy a longer cord and/or having to rearrange items.
• Pack a drink for when you get here. It’ll probably be warm and you’ll be moving a lot; don’t let yourself get thirsty.

• Emily Ewen says: For those living in East and Schwalm, bring in your fans before anything else to help cool off while moving in.
• Joe Gallatin says: Don’t be afraid to take part in the Welcome Week activities.
• Brittany Udell says: If you’re bring a car to campus, don’t forget to get your parking permit online. It’s free!

As my internship with Social Media at MU is coming to an end, I struggle to find the right words to describe all that I’ve learned. Not only have I met tons of MU community members, but I’ve gained experience that I’ve realized only comes from a hands-on commitment.

In terms of running branded social media accounts for a university, the list of responsibilities is endless. I didn’t even participate in most of them, but I watched my supervisor, and I have no clue how she handles all of it mostly on her own. There is so much variation between daily tasks that need to be done to keep the accounts running. But if I have to sum up my experience into a cohesive thought, I would say this: social media can be a very powerful tool.

In general, a social media account is always more than just a fun platform to say or post whatever you want. For individuals, it’s an expression of self, a creative outlet, a form of communication, but most of all, it represents the user, which can be good or bad. It can be pretty easy to get in trouble on social media by saying the wrong thing (e.g. vulgar content), posting content that doesn’t belong to you, or abusing your privileges. But it can also help to show off your personality, your thoughts, and your accomplishments. It can be your outlet to get yourself recognized through a blog or profile, or it could be proof that you can successfully curate useful, enjoyable content for an audience. For brands and individuals alike, social media is also a great, modern tactic at creating a community between people.

For branded social media accounts, like a university, online platforms can easily become one of the most effective ways of communicating with followers, friends, and community members. I can’t even begin to describe all of the resources and content that MU has available on its various social media accounts, but some of my favorites: our Pinterest boards with scholarship, career, and college information; our Instagram accounts that feature both the university and its community; and our Snapchat, full of fun and helpful content (mostly aimed at students) that is presented to followers in a way that the student demographic can enjoy.

Maybe social media is non-traditional, and maybe it won’t interest everyone, but there is so much potential in it. Technology’s prevalence is only growing, and when used correctly, social media accounts can work in your favor. Many, many people and businesses use it, and I personally think that to forgo using it is a lost opportunity. However, I also know that it can be tricky to create accounts that are actually successful. Sometimes, it’s a hit and miss, and other times you just get lucky. But from my experience through this internship, these are useful pieces of advice for curating social media accounts:

Of course, it will always depend on the specific platform. Lengthy text posts don’t do well on Twitter (mostly because you can barely get a full thought out before you run out of characters), and pictures of people typically don’t do as well on Instagram, for example. But, in general, posts with photos usually receive more interactions. Stories or highlights about specific people also tend to do well, but on certain platforms rather than others. On the other hand, photos with short captions do well, unless you’re posting one of the aforementioned stories. Sometimes the success of your post also comes down to the timing of when it is posted. There isn’t really a “right” time to post anything, so it may depend on the targeted demographic audience. If you’re posting for college students, 8 a.m. might not be the best time. Similarly, there isn’t really a “right” place to post at; again, it depends on your targeted audience. If you’re posting content for middle-aged parents, Twitter isn’t going to help you much.

Running social media accounts requires persistence and commitment. Sometimes it’s disappointing when an idea you loved fails miserably, but it can also be very satisfying to see your content go live, even if you’re the only one who likes it. I think the best piece of advice I can give for running any social media account, whether it’s for a branded account or a personal account, is to be genuine. Be authentic with your content, and embrace the identity that is true to you. One of the pitfalls of social media is to become too digitized, too regulated, too calculated. This technology is a great tool, but it’s important to maintain the humanity behind the profile picture. 

Last spring I filled out an email survey for an article, and I didn’t hear anything about that article until last week. I finally found the article where my roommate and I are quoted frequently. Since I never saw it, I’m going to assume others didn’t either. I wanted to share it with everyone! Please note: this article is not mine! It was written by Jensen Lassiter!

Baseball Boys Bond; Look Toward Tournament 

 Jensen Lassiter

Although Spring Semester is winding down, the Manchester University baseball team is still rounding the bases.

One important aspect of the team’s dynamic is the relationship between upper and lower classmen. "The most memorable thing is being a part of the team in general,” said first year Nick Rush in an email. "Making new friends and hearing about where they came from, what they have done in the past, and hearing the older guys’ stories from other seasons is something I won’t forget. Hanging out with them during downtime created memories that I’ll remember over playing in games with them. It has impacted the season because we’ve gotten closer as a team that I believe that helped us be better on the field."

Team bonding helps strengthen the team and allows them to be cohesive both on and off the field. "Hanging out with the team on road trips is what [is] most memorable for me,” said first year Joe Gallatin in an email. “It helps the team bond and brings us together."

The first year students are still attempting to develop their sense of belonging on the team. "The season started off slower than we expected,” Rush said. “We have progressively got-ten better. Our hitting came around, which helped give us more wins."

Another key team activity is goal-building. Most teams lay out goals and expectations for the season, but allowing personal goals to overlap strengthens the core of the team’s values. "I hope for nothing less than a conference championship,” Rush said. “For next season, I personal-ly plan to get quicker, faster and stronger. I also want to increase my baseball IQ, so I’ve been listening to upperclassmen about how they play and adapting it to my style if it helps me.”

Gallatin agreed. "One team goal is making the conference tournament and winning it,” he said. “That goes hand-in-hand with my goals. Having fun is always a goal, too, but having fun while winning is much better."

With the start of a new season next year, new players will be added to the roster and team cohesion will play another large part in the team success. "Advice I’d give to incoming freshmen is to just have fun and try as hard as you can,” Rush said. “Whether it be on the field or in the classroom, doing everything you can to succeed will always help you, no matter how hard it may be at the time."


Nick Rush ’20 is studying Sports Management and plans on minoring in another business area. He plays baseball for MU, and he plans on working in the sports industry after graduation.

Hello all! As the beginning of my third year of college is starting soon, I would like to think that I’ve learned a few tricks on saving money. A lot of my fellow students probably know these tips, but first-years, here is some first-hand, Manchester-personalized tricks for keeping your savings account intact.

1. This is really simple and obvious, but use Wi-Fi as much as possible. Wi-Fi is available on almost anywhere on campus, and you’ll definitely want to use it for those long hours scrolling through YouTube watching funny goat videos to distract yourself from your homework. If you’re lucky enough to still be on your parents’ plan, I’m sure they will appreciate it! The Wi-Fi is usually faster than cell service in North Manchester, anyway (knock on wood).
2. I know it will be very, very hard – but limit eating out. I totally understand if you need a cheap taco or a greasy burger sometimes, but in general, focus on campus food services, if you have a meal plan. Some days the food is better than others, but it has kept me alive and happy for two years, so don’t worry.
3. For me, having snacks in my dorm room was always a must, but be careful if you go snack shopping. Never go hungry; I did that a lot, and I ended up with food in my room that I never ate. Also, try to stick with snacks that will last a while in storage. There will be days that you hardly spend any time in your room, or forget about your food somewhere, and it’ll go bad before you get the chance to eat it. One last thing: I personally love fruit, but I found out that I didn’t eat it fast enough to keep it. If that happens to you, put some in the freezer!
4. Ask about student discounts! Many places in town offer discounts for us, including the North Manchester Taco Bell and Subway.
5. Buying your books at the campus store is an option, but you may find them for cheaper online or at used-book stores! Buying them at the campus store is fine and a lot simpler than looking online, but they often don’t have used copies in stock and are required to charge a certain price, so buying them online can really help save money.
6. The days of backpacks full of school supplies may be coming to an end soon. If you have a laptop or tablet, consider taking notes on that, if the professor is okay with it. That way, you won’t have to buy as many notebooks, pens, and pencils.
7. Take advantage of all the free resources at MU! The PERC, Health Services, the Success Center, and the Library offer just some of the free services on campus.
8. Buying reusable water bottles, plates, cups, silverware, etc. is also a good idea. If you’re living in a dorm you won’t need too many of those items, so just a couple will suffice. We have free water bottle filling stations around campus, and washing a couple of dishes here and there will help you cut down on unnecessary spending, while also eliminating waste!
9. Keep your grades up. If your GPA goes too low, you will lose financial aid, sadly, and we don’t want that to happen!
10. Finally, check out Spartan Jobs for available on-campus positions. Right now is a good time to start applying, and as someone who has 2 (maybe 3) jobs through the university, I promise it’s totally doable and worth it. We don’t make much, but any income helps out a lot, and it will most likely be an enjoyable experience.

Hopefully none of this sounds overwhelming, but we have to start somewhere. Some investments are even more beneficial, like a nice pair of walking shoes. But, on that note, don’t let the fear of spending money stop you from having some fun. If your friends invite you to eat out at El Mezquite, go for it. If you want to go see a movie with friends, do it. I promise that the memories will be worth more than the price you pay. 

Ciara Knisely ’18 is an English-Creative Writing major and Journalism minor, and hopes to continue her writing career in the future. She spends her time working at the Writing Center on campus and is a Co-Editor of the Oak Leaves newspaper.

Dear incoming students,

People come to Manchester from all over the world, traveling hours upon hours. In general, it’s common for students to go to college hours away from home. I am not one of those people. I grew up in the same house for most of my life, and then I committed to a college just thirty minutes from home.

Despite that, I can say that the Manchester experience is unique, even for me, as someone who’s been stuck in rural Indiana most of her life (and for some reason didn’t take the chance to split when she could’ve). It will probably not be how you’re expecting it to be, but I know how terrifying it can be to leave home and move all of your personal belongings into a small room that you share with a stranger, then be ushered into classrooms, large and small, full of even more strangers. Then you get that 8-page syllabus handed to you, and you suddenly feel as though you immediately need a hug from your mom.

Luckily, when you see other students walking around campus, chances are that they’re either feeling exactly how you are, or they have in the past. One great thing that you don’t have to worry about is being made fun of for being a first-year, like the upperclassmen did in high school. Instead, it doesn’t matter to anyone that you’re new, or that you finished high school at 16, or that you’ve been homeschooled your whole life. It doesn’t matter, because the minute you come here is the minute you become one of us. That sounds overly sentimental, but it’s still true. I can’t speak for other campuses, or even for every person on this campus, but in general, there is probably nothing that you could possibly do that anyone will judge you for. So don’t be afraid to be afraid, and don’t be afraid to laugh too much at that funny joke or ask every single question that you can think of.

We know how it was to be totally clueless, and honestly, we all still are. But one of the biggest mistakes that you can make when coming to college is to not be genuine. If you’re not, then nothing will be great. Nothing will be special, and nothing will be enjoyable. If someone ends up not liking you, then that’s their loss. Don’t let it bother you; it’s just how life is, and it doesn’t make your presence at Manchester matter any less. This is your chance to live and grow as deeply into yourself as you can. If you feel exhausted, be exhausted. If you feel sad, angry, ecstatic, or bored, just be it. You don’t have to pretend anymore, and if someone here asks you how you are, they truly want to know. The time for answering “I’m good” to every “How are you?” is over, because that’s just not genuine. During my first couple of months here, I didn’t even realize that I wasn’t okay, because I kept answering “I’m good” until I believed it. Then one day I was sitting down with my First-Year Seminar professor, Dr. Planer, and when he asked me how I was I just burst into tears and had no idea why, but he helped me figure it out. That was when I decided to stop being afraid of being vulnerable. Be unapologetically you, and feel your feelings as truly as you want to.

Hopefully, you will learn a lot while you’re here, but I personally hope that you learn how to be the you that you want to be, the you that you need to be. Learn about yourself, learn about what you believe in, learn about things your mind has never even conceptualized. Letting myself be open to people has been one of the hardest things I’ve had to do, and I’m still not good at it. But the beginning is always slow, and it starts now. It begins with you and whatever you decide to do, but trust me: being yourself is the best path you can take. 

If an incoming freshman asks for advice, I’d argue that one piece in the top three will be “get involved.” I totally agree with that; it’s how I met many of my friends, and it’s even helped getting involved in other activities. I would also tell an incoming freshman to get involved, except I would turn into a promoter for the College of Business Club (CBC).

I, too, was given the advice to get involved by my Student Orientation Leaders and many teammates. I, too, was told to join the CBC. And here I am, promoting it to other students. I was just a member, a regular student of the club, when all the opportunities were laid out in front of me. There were volunteer opportunities, real-work experiences, etc. I fell for the real-work opportunities and tried to learn how I could get some of it. After asking around, I learned that an easy way to learn is by joining a committee. I ended up being selected for the Programming Committee, which is mainly responsible for the On-Campus Field Trip. This is where we bring someone to campus that has experience in their field and can teach something to us. Last year we bought a man who twice committed fraud in accounting firms. Since I was on the committee, we all were able to sit down with him for lunch and talk about random things and ask him questions for an hour. It was a solid chance to 1) network, 2) hear about someone who has had years of experience under his belt, and 3) listen to him given all sorts of advice.

There are many opportunities within the CBC. For starters, meeting people is definitely an opportunity. At the opening meeting, you will be introduced to all the Executive Board members and you’ll be sitting next to people you don’t know. (Side note: if you ever hear mention of the Executive Cabinet, that is also the Executive Board. “Cabinet” and “Board” are interchangeable.) That leads me to another opportunity; Executive Board. This is composed of President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. Under them, the E-Board, are the committees. I am now the Director of the Programming Committee, and there are four other Director positions.

Also, somewhat touched on, was the networking opportunity. Networking with other members of the club will happen for sure. Also like I mentioned before, networking with people from outside the club is also possible. If you get on the Programming Committee, the opportunity will be there with whomever we bring in. Most of the networking opportunities will occur with people on campus, but that is just good practice because 1) you don’t know them so it could still stir some nerves and 2) it won’t be as nerve-racking because it’s just a person on campus and everybody here are really easy to talk to.

Another opportunity that goes hand-in-hand with the E-Board and Directors is authority. Once you earn one of those positions, you get to help with the hiring process; Directors and E-Board interview potential committee members. The E-Board hires Directors. If you have any interest in being a boss over others, earning a position will be good experience. The hiring process is like an interview for real professions, business-professional attire and everything. Once hired on as a Director, you get to run your own meetings. You can say when they are, how long they’ll be, what’s covered, and how often you have them. For the E-Board, it’s a little different. You have to give a speech in front of the members and Directors and they vote who to pick; majority wins.

These are just a few of the opportunities of CBC. Much of this was slanted towards moving higher up in ranks within CBC, but considering there are many more members than Directors/E-Board staff, there are many more opportunities. CBC is open to any Manchester student, but most members have a major that falls within the College of Business. What this means is you and any of your friends may join. If you’re lucky enough to become Director and positions in your committee open, your friends can apply and possibly be part of your committee; it just so happens to be that two of my close friends are part of my committee. Overall, CBC has multiple opportunities. Everything I’ve typed out is something that happened to me, so it’s all real. I’m looking forward to moving up in ranks within CBC. The goal of being on the E-Board is still there, and I have three more years to accomplish it. 


Nick Rush ’20 is studying Sports Management and plans on minoring in another business area. He plays baseball for MU, and he plans on working in the sports industry after graduation.