Volume XV, Issue Five, Tuesday, November, 2012
Recent Alumni Scores Job with NECN, Tough Hours but Rewarding
By Meaghann Mellen
Former Endicott student Megan Nowick is
now with NECN TV.
Some children have idealized fantasies of what they want to be when they grow up, whether it is a pro athlete, astronaut, and yes, even Mark Zuckerberg himself, while others have no direction at all. Endicott alumni, Megan Nowik, has always had aspirations to put her writing skills to use, initially may not have been sure how until she began her studies at Endicott, started her internship at NECN and eventually nailed a job as a news writer/production assistant at NECN.
With hard work and drive on her side, Nowik solidified a semester internship with NECN as a newsroom intern. It did not take long for her to seek out her own opportunities, which eventually led her to be invited to the Presidential Primaries in Manchester, NH with the NECN crew, as well as multiple opportunities working beside Jim Braude, who hosts "Broadside" on NECN nightly.
Excelling far beyond her internship requirements, Nowik worked hard and realized exactly what she wanted to be doing in the future by the time she was a second semester senior in college. The rare opportunity to be so sure about a career so young comes naturally to Nowik – by the time she graduated she had potential opportunities lined up with NECN. Unfortunately, graduation meant relocation home in Connecticut, but she patiently waited for the right opportunity to come up again, and this time she was ready and able to make the move to Boston and work for NECN full time.
What sparked her interest in journalism? Believe it or not, her Twitter account – “I became very active on Twitter and gained a pretty impressive following by involving myself in the discussion," said Nowik.
During a trial near her home town in Connecticut, she began following the proceedings by the journalists and civilians tweeting from the courtroom. This event lead her to not only to recognize the importance of networking, but it allowed her to become acquainted with multiple news reporters and media people who she continues to stay in contact with today.
While her various journalism and communication classes created a rock-solid foundation for Nowik to build her career on, the job hunt was far from easy. "I started sending out resumes and applying to jobs around March of last year. Over the course of 10 months between then and getting hired, I must have sent out hundreds and hundreds of resumes," said Nowik.
After only hearing back from a handful of sites, she realized they all told her the same thing – "You have no experience." This did not discourage Nowik, as she took her colleagues advice and continued to practice journalism, even if it was not her dream position. Her non-discriminatory attitude finally paid off in December of 2012 after she applied, interviewed, and nailed the job.
Although Nowik is happily working at NECN, she may not lead the typical life of a 22-year-old, considering she is at the news desk Monday through Friday from 2:30am-11:00am. Most people would consider these hours to be torturous, but Nowik stressed it really is not as awful as it sounds.
"If you're serious about working in this business, you need to get yourself acquainted with the idea that generally speaking, unless you're working an upper management position at a news station, you will never see 9-5 hours," said Nowik.
What does a typical day look like in a news room at 3am? She explained it is a jam packed morning filled with updating the ticker, re-writing scripts into broadcast format, entering director cues and finding graphics. After only three weeks on the job, she seems to have a good handle on what is expected of her at large, partly due to her previous internship experiences.
Nowik’s Advice for Pursuing a Career after Graduation
1. Be confident, but don't be entitled. You don't have much to offer an employer right out of college. You're more likely not going to get your dream job at your dream company the day after you graduate. If you do, that is awesome. If not, you're in the same boat as everyone else.
2. Things will happen the way they’re meant to. Sometimes things that happen won't make sense. You just have to trust that if something doesn't work out, it's because something better is waiting in the wings.
3. Set your sights to attainable goals. If you really want a specific job, by all means, apply and use every resource you have to get it. However, don't scratch that part time job at a lesser known or smaller company because it is not exactly what you want to do.
4. Your best opportunity is a job at your internship site. Your internship will put you ahead of other applicants more than it would somewhere else that no one knows you. Stay in contact with your internship so they will keep you in mind for future opportunities.
5.
Use the resources you have. Ask them for advice, ask them to help you with your résumé, ask them to guide you in your job search.
Life Sciences and Business Center Close to Completion
By Colby Pastre
For the past year, it has been hard not to notice the construction of the new Life Sciences and Business Center, which has consumed the center of Endicott College with much anticipation. According to President Dr. Richard Wylie, the Endicott community does not have much longer to wait – the project is ahead of schedule and under budget.
Wylie is confident that the Life Sciences and Business Center will open its doors at the beginning of August, in time to welcome students into the fall semester of 2013. Although the project is ambitious, the College, in combination with Windover Construction, has been able to keep the budget almost $500,000 under their expected 18 million dollar mark. According to Dr. Wylie, the reserve funds will be reinvested in state-of-the-art life science and business technology and additional outdoor sitting space for students and faculty to enjoy.
Part of what makes the project so ambitious is its aim to join the life sciences and the School of Business under one roof. According to Dr. Wylie, "The new entrepreneur center is what will bridge the gap between those two fields."
Design has been thoroughly considered as well – the life sciences wing will feature exposed ventilation and a minimalist design reminiscent of professional laboratory settings, while the business wing will feature wood paneling and wrought arches, communicating ideas of strength and stability. The entrepreneur center will be where those two worlds meet, bringing the advancements made in life sciences to the marketplace.
Dr. Wylie is excited about the opportunities the new center will make possible for students and the North Shore community at large. "We have already approached many local businesses and entrepreneurs who are willing to work with Endicott students in the new space. I’m confident that, as we put the center to use, even more people will see the effectiveness of it and want to be a part."
The entrepreneur center will provide innovative students and business people with an incubation space, where they will be able to grow their ideas into viably marketable schemes. Both the new life sciences and business centers will allow Endicott students to engage in professional research, which will strengthen working relationships between students and teachers and allow local companies to work with students on projects for longer than traditional internships would allow.
Another opportunity the new building will allow is Endicott's foray into the field of robotics. Colin Angle, co-founder of iRobot Corporation, a global leader in advanced technology, will deliver the 2013 commencement speech, symbolically ushering in a new era at Endicott.
Endicott and Taiwan Make the Ultimate Study Abroad Exchange
By Kayla Carignan
Everyone knows at least a handful of people who have spent time overseas in Europe. Study abroad destinations such as Florence and Madrid are so common, that many signing up for the trip of a lifetime do not even think to consider other parts of the world. Europe is no doubt a worthy tourist destination, with beauty in people, culture, and architecture. But not many can actually say they spent a semester studying in the advanced industrial economy of Taipei City, Taiwan.
National Chengchi University (NCCU) is one of the more prestigious universities in Tawain, and is well known for its concentration on the social sciences, law, commerce, communication, liberal arts, and MBA programs. In 2011, Endicott signed an exchange agreement with NCCU, located in Taipei City, Taiwan.
During the fall semester of 2012, four Endicott students studied at NCCU – Joe Colby, Tiffany Williamson, Olivia Kaplan, and Brett Glosser. This semester, three NCCU students are studying here on campus in Beverly.
"A lot of student exchange programs have an imbalance, where one school is always sending more students than they are receiving, or vice versa," said Dean of International Education, Warren Jaferian. "With NCCU, it is a true exchange program where both ends are reciprocating eager, intelligent students."
The initiative of implementing an Asian location into the study abroad mix is to try to internationalize and better prepare Endicott students for the global world in which we live, since a lot of businesses are beginning to have ties with China.
"My overall goal is to get more buzz on campus about Asia," said Jaferian, "Our jobs are dwindling, and we need to be able to compete globally."
Understandably, traveling to Asia may seem frightening to some students, where the culture, language and food are so different from here. For many who have never traveled overseas, Taiwan may seem like a large leap.
According to Jaferian, what really drive students to choose their destination are friends. There is a sense of security in knowing that your friends are going along for the trip. But on the other hand, it can feel just like a mini-Endicott. Jetting off to Asia, students are really getting immersed into the culture and getting to know other people. Stepping outside of a comfort zone can be intimidating, but rewarding all the same.
"I really enjoyed my time in Taiwan and thought that the school we attended was excellent. Taiwan is a very comfortable place with a very warm and friendly culture," said recent Endicott International Studies graduate, Joe Colby. "Everyone you see around in Taipei is always willing to help you and the city as a whole has a very safe feel to it. I would highly recommend anyone interested in learning Chinese to study in Taiwan."
Jaferian is also trying to add more short-term trips, such as the Cambodia trip students took this past January. While some students are not able to travel abroad for an entire semester, these shorter trips will allow students to still get a taste of other cultures.
If you are interested in any study abroad program offered here at Endicott. Contact Warren Jaferian at (978)-232-2272, or wjaferia@endicott.edu.
Communication Student, Cassie Trombley, Scores CMT Internship in Nashville
By Dina Cashman
A phone call and over-the-phone interview paved the way for Cassie Trombley, a Mass Communication senior, to land an exciting internship in Nashville, Tennessee with CMT Country Music Television.
She interviewed with two different departments, heard back from the Consumer Marketing Position, and had an interview with the VP. She then received a call from Human Resources with the good news that she had been hired. Then it all began.
Cassie said she was able to experience a taste of the real world by being treated as an equal employee, "going to countless meetings countless meetings, a few tapings, and been in charge of major projects."
The move to Tennessee was a major transition for Cassie, who lives very close to Endicott and is used to going home whenever she needs it. "At Endicott I could still call and ask my parents to drop something off to me or go home for a home cooked meal. Now, I am working as a hostess on the weekends to make extra cash, so I work seven days a week."
However, she feels very at home in Nashville with all of its friendly residents.
"Nashville is like a whole other world. You walk down Broadway and there is live country music playing on every corner. It is like a small town feel in a city. It’s amazing."
Cassie worked on many once-in-a-a-lifetime projects, such as a radio promotion for Jake Owen’s tour, a CMT Crossroads taping for the first time, and has worked on brainstorming sessions for the second season of Redneck Island. She also experienced one of Cody Alan’s radio shows and was able to see the host in action. Another opportunity she had was coming up with ideas for social apps and watching them come to life before her eyes.
There were many big-name, country, artists seen entering and exiting the studio. Cassie mentioned she was in an elevator on her second day with the band, Love and Theft, but kept her cool and stayed professional.
Cassie said that CMT was a different atmosphere than a concert where you are surrounded by the fan vibe. The professional atmosphere was able to keep her fandom under control. Nashville holds a lot of free concerts and Cassie enjoyed seeing Luke Bryan, Love and Theft, and Easton Corbin - all for free.
Advice Cassie gives for semester internships is to not settle for an internship because it is near where you live. "I had a few people tell me it wasn’t realistic for me to try to do an internship at a major company, but I am doing it and am getting the greatest experience of my life. The distance internship has given the opportunity to see what it would be like to support myself for food, rent, gas, and any other necessities as well. It really is a look into the future."
From the very beginning, Cassie had known she wanted to be a part of the entertainment industry. Her first internship she completed was at a radio station, which she absolutely loved. Her second was with the state government, giving her a different view on the government but helping her realize her heart was set on entertainment.
Cassie said this internship had been the best four months in her life, "This has been a huge step for me in leaving my family and pursuing my dreams and I am so happy because I feel like I’m where I’m supposed to be."
Whitey Bulger's 'right-hand' speaks to the Endicott community
By Colby Pastre
It is not common for a community such as Endicott to open its doors to a convicted felon, but on Thursday, November 15, former Irish mobster Kevin Weeks was welcomed to the College to tell his life story to a crowd of interested students in hopes to teach them something about criminal justice. The event was appropriately titled 'Life of a Mobster.'
Dean of social sciences, Christopher Latimer, and professor Rhona Gilberg were responsible for organizing the event and asked the audience to be critical of Weeks's actions. Formatted as a dialogue between Weeks and his biographer, acclaimed author Phyllis Karas, the presentation outlined the details of Weeks's criminal career and revealed his personal opinions on the complicated lifestyle.
For over ten years, Weeks was former right-hand to James "Whitey" Bulger, infamous boss of the Winter Hill Gang based out of Somerville, Mass. Although his reputation precedes him as a hardened criminal, Weeks seemed strangely approachable as he related the story of his life leading to his arrest on November 17, 1999.
Born to working-class family of Irish-American decent, Weeks grew up in the housing projects of South Boston. His father was a former middleweight boxer and trained prizefighters to supplement his income as an agent of the Boston Housing Authority. The tradition of fighting was instilled in Weeks from a young age, as he and his two older brothers were mentored by their father and were competitive boxers throughout high school.
Weeks was an above average student throughout his academic career, and his older brothers went on to graduate from Harvard University, but financial difficulties forced him to end his formal education in 1976. He them became a bouncer at a popular neighborhood bar named Triple O's.
As a bouncer in South Boston, Weeks recalls sometimes getting in six or seven fights a night - a difficult pace to maintain. But in 1978, Weeks was introduced to Whitey Bulger, who recognized his skill as a fighter and offered him a job as a strong-arm in his Winter Hill Gang.
On one of his first assignments, Weeks claimed that he was paid over $6,000.00 "just for beating some guy up," he said.
The allure of earning so easily drew Weeks into the gang, of which he became a full member in 1982.
"When I was working for Whitey Bulger I was making more money than both of my brothers combined," Weeks claimed. "It wasn't like you see on TV, with bad things happening all of the time. It all ran smoothly. Most of the time we would just drive around, see what was going on, maybe pick up some envelopes and that was it for the day…and we got good money for it."
Weeks worked his way up the mob ladder quickly, soon becoming Bulger's lieutenant. He claimed that for the most part he enjoyed his work, but as the Winter Hill Gang expanded to become more involved in drug trafficking, things became more dangerous.
"There was a period of time where I used to carry two pistols on me," Weeks admitted. "I mean, most people don't have them in it to do anything, but you never know."
In addition to regular gang activity, Weeks, along with Bulger and fellow Winter Hill Gang member Stephen Flemmi, established a prominent drug distribution ring in South Boston in the early 1980's. The three members sold marijuana and cocaine and used prizefighters to distribute and sell their product.
When asked whether he felt remorse for his involvement with the Winter Hill Gang, Weeks was frank. "This might seem bad, but to be honest, I put my head on the pillow at night and fall right asleep. I can't change the past, so I don't dwell on it," he said.
Weeks went on to describe his extra-legal actions as being part of the Robin-Hood tradition.
"We protected the area. Sure we were involved with drugs, but we never allowed heroin or angel dust in the town." On one occasion Weeks recalled local law enforcement approaching the gang about a case where a young boy was raped. "They had laws and we had no laws. So we took care of it."
Weeks went on to rationalize the murders he was involved with. "Just to clarify one thing, the people we killed, they were other gangsters, the people around us, they were bad people too. There were only two people that I know of who got killed that were not involved in organized crime," he said.
On November 17, 1999, Weeks's life of crime caught up with him though. He explained that he was in his house having a cup of coffee when a law enforcement official that he knew came in to arrest him. Weeks did not resist arrest and the next afternoon was presented with a 29-count indictment under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).
Bulger had fled the area long before.
In only took two weeks for Weeks to decide to cooperate as an informant. He led authorities to six bodies buried by the Winter Hill Gang, implicated Bulger in the murder of Brian Halloran, and agreed to testify against Flemmi and Bulger.
Weeks also testified against two former friends of Bulger, Special Agent Connolly, who is currently serving a 40 year sentence, and Lieutenant Richard J. Schneiderhan of the Massachusetts State Police. Upon presenting authorities with this information, Weeks was sentenced to just five years in federal prison.
Weeks had no problem giving up his former gang members, who were revealed to be FBI informants. Through the years, Flemmi and Bulger had given up numerous criminals that the White Hill Gang had involvement with. According to Weeks, "you can't rat on a rat."
Weeks was released from prison in 2005 and since then has coauthored two books with Phyllis Karas, the New York Times bestselling true crime memoir, Brutal: My Life in Whitey Bulger's Irish Mob and the fictional account, Where's Whitey? The proceeds from both books went to support the families affected by Weeks's criminal activity. This seeming act of generosity was only a political ploy though, as Weeks admitted that he needed to appease the families suing him.
Upon Bulger's recent capture in June 2011, which he was influential in bringing about, Weeks admits to feeling uneasy. "I do have a sick feeling about reopening everything that I have tried to put behind me. I don't want the attention."
Now, Weeks lives in South Boston with his wife Pamela Cavaleri and enjoys the company of his two older sons. He works two jobs as a construction worker and admits to living a relatively quiet life. He says resisting organized crime for him is just like AA.
"I wake up every morning and say to myself, 'I'm not going to commit a crime today.'" He does miss the money though, which came so easily as a gangster.
The message he left the audience with was, in keeping with the rest of the interview, unapologetically honest.
"Well I know a lot of you are criminal justice majors here," he said. "I should tell you to believe in your clients, but the truth is, 99% of them are guilty."
Volume XV, Issue 3, Tuesday, October, 2012
Students Perform "5 Women Wearing the Same Dress and InterMANzzo"
By Dina Cashman
Photos by Myra Dettelbach
The performing arts department put on a show, 5 Women Wearing the Same Dress and InterMANzzo, during the weekend of October 11 to October 13. Endicott students performed this show with thick southern accents, while wearing suits and very extravagant purple bridesmaid's dresses.
The play brought the audience on a journey to a southern wedding, in the sister of the bride's bedroom. Five women in dresses adorned with flowers and frills told stories of why they would rather be in the bedroom then at the reception downstairs.
The original script was written with just the five women, but Director Penny Hansen hired Lyralen Kaye to help write an additional script that included five groomsmen. The original playwright, Alan Ball, only mentions the names of the groomsmen and they are never really seen.
Kaye worked with Endicott students Delroy McDonald (Tommy), Tom Butcher (Billy), Jay Martel (Theodore III), and Joe Andreasi (Tripp) to write their own take on the play.
Kaye said during the first five rehearsals, they created the show through improvisation, showing any special skills and talents. These skills inspired a particular scene with the instruction on dancing between Tommy and Billy, as well as the clapping push-ups Tommy displayed.
While Kaye was casting, she looked for creativity, flexibility, enthusiasm and willingness to try anything. Most of the script came directly from what the actors said and did in rehearsal. Kaye really enjoyed working with them, even though it was a lot of work.
"It was really fun, so much fun. I mean it is high pressure, eight rehearsals to write and rehearse and have it performable, but the guys were so fantastic!" Kaye said. She met Hansen at yoga training, where they realized they both had a love of theater.
Delroy McDonald said he chose to do this play because as a senior, it is one of his last chances to perform at Endicott. He performed in Cabaret last year and wanted to act again. When asked how he got into character, he said, "I have to give all of my shout outs and props to my wonderful director Kaye, amazing, she brought out the inner character that I have never reached before out."
Jay Martel, senior, was one of the five groomsmen. He claimed that he loved the improvisation, which was his favorite part about the play.
"It was a new experience, definitely a good experience. I have never done that before, usually I have had a script that we read and that was great," he said.
Penny Hansen directed Five Women Wearing the Same Dress with actresses Suzanne Millet (Frances), Anna Belmonte (Meredith), Sara Logan (Trisha), and Melody Curran (Georgeanne). They all had very distinct characters, ranging from goody-two-shoes Christian to a rebellious sister of the bride.
As the director, Hansen was able to get her cast to bond by playing improvisation games and having them make character sketches where the actors had to put together pictures, music, or dance that matched their character's personality.
The actors did an exceptional job interacting with the audience, especially during InterMANzzo, when they would walk up and talk to audience members.
Kelsey Perez, sophomore, said she absolutely loved the play, "I thought it was really fun, it was really cute, I liked the southern accents, they were so funny. I also liked the guys, they were hysterical."
Hansen read many different plays, but this one she enjoyed the most, "I read a lot of plays, and honestly this was the play I kept going back to, this was the one that I laughed out loud when I read it and it touched me as well, but this was the one my gut kept going back to."
Longboarding, a College Lifestyle
By Colby Pastre
Photos by Myra Dettelbach
Many of us grew up during the skateboarding explosion of the late 1990's, when celebrity athletes like Tony Hawk made the sport into a way of life. The X-Games brought action sports into the living room - shows like "Rocket Power" had children begging for skateboards for Christmas, and video games like "Tony Hawk Pro Skater" had a whole generation trying kickflips in their driveways.
The daring, youthful experimentation that seems to characterize the sport has caused it to evolve constantly. One of the latest and fastest growing mutations of the skateboarding tradition has recently hit college campuses is longboarding.
Some serious skaters would describe longboarding as a sport, others rely on it just as a means of transportation, but others would say that it is a way of life. Like most action sports, longboarding was slow to find its way to the East coast, but with the pervasiveness of the Internet and social media, the sport has exploded in the last several years. Today there is hardly a college campus in the Boston area without a longboarding constituent, and Endicott College is no different.
Joe Andereassi and Keanu Burke, both juniors at Endicott, are two boarders who have grown up in the culture.
Andereassi started skimboarding when he was in 8th grade and got his first longboard in high school. Burke found his way into skateboarding through snowboarding and surfing.
Although Burke doesn't technically longboard (he rides on what is called a "fat-board") he explains that all of the board sports are related.
"I go snowboarding with a lot of buddies that like to skateboard in the summer…it takes a certain type of person to do this sort of thing."
The distinction between skateboarding and longboarding may seem trivial to the unfamiliar onlooker, but within the boarding community, it is obvious.
According to Burke "If I had to set up the persona of a longboarder he might be a little more laid back. Longboarders are more about the hills and skateboarding is more about staying in one place and doing tricks."
Andereassi jokes about the fact that he longboards and Burke skateboards puts a strain on their relationship, "but we're still friends, we can fight through the adversity," he said.
Aside from the type of person each kind of boarding might attract, longboarding is distinct from skateboarding in that its main focus is on transportation. Fatter, less resistant wheels, a longer and more stable deck, and the ability to turn easier, makes the longboard ideal for cruising to class, whereas skateboards are designed for remaining in the same area and doing tricks.
"I think longboarding is mostly about transportation" explains Andereassi. "It's awesome."
Burke agrees, "there are certain points on Endicott's campus where you can kick once and be at class in two minutes."
This distinct advantage is one of the major reasons longboarding has become so popular at Endicott and colleges around the nation. In the past three years alone, Andereassi and Burke have noticed a huge increase in the longboarding population at Endicott.
"This year especially there has been a boom" said Burke. "Longboarders have always been around, but whereas it used to be a niche group, now it's not weird to see a whole flock of them ride by."
"When I came here freshman year I was one of the only longboarders," said Andereassi. "I'd like to think that me and my buddy Tyler Hovey-Wildman (also an Endicott junior) were the originators of it here."
Part of the appeal for skaters at Endicott is the school's hilly campus. "Endicott has a great campus for skating" Andereassi explains. "The red surface around the Marblehead quad is great to learn on," Burke agrees, "and it's at the top of campus so you can ride right down into central campus, past the Callahan."
Another favorite spot is the hill by college hall where Andereassi claims skaters can gain the most speed.
Aside from riding on campus though, Andereassi and Burke both agree that there are plenty of good places to skate in Beverly and the surrounding area. "I even bring my board into Boston sometimes just for fun and to get around," said Burke.
Despite the distinct skate culture that longboarding evolved out of and seems tied to, the sport has become so mainstream that anyone can do it. "Anyone can pick up a board," said Andereassi. "It doesn't matter what you're wearing or what you're saying. It's just really good fun."
According to Burke, "The best part about riding for me is that when I get going down the hill and my mind relaxes and I forget about my day's affairs—homework, money, women—to me that is a form of meditation."
For people who want to get involved in the boarding community at Endicott College, Andereassi and Burke both suggest joining the Endicott Skate and Surf Club run by fellow student, Rit Cooper. For more information about the club, contact student affairs.
Volume XV, Issue Two, Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Athletic Facilities Expand with New Turf Field and Hockey Rink
By Colby Pastre
Photos by Myra Dettelbach
The Endicott campus has expanded significantly in the past few years: The Walter J. Manninen Center for the Arts opened in January 2009, Marblehead Hall was unveiled in fall 2011, and West Building was demolished in spring 2012 and is currently being replaced by a state-of-the-art Life Sciences and Business and Technology Center.
To keep up with the ever-changing campus, a new turf surface and surrounding lights was added to North Field this fall, and the construction of a large hockey rink and activity center is slated for the near future.
The new turf field, located behind the Post Center, was just unveiled in recent weeks, but was slated to be complete in August. Despite major delays in construction due to difficulties with excavation, the field was completed in time for Endicott's homecoming weekend.
"We were fortunate because two weeks ago they told us we would not be playing on it for Homecoming," said Dr. Wylie. "But we flew a crew in from Oregon and they worked around the clock to finish it."
Dr. Wylie said that it was important the project get done for homecoming, as the field and other athletic facilitates are major points of pride at Endicott.
As well as providing an up to date baseball diamond and field hockey field, the new addition will alleviate the overuse of the stadium field, which is worn, and will have to be returfed this summer. The new field will also serve as a place for intramural sports to be played.
The construction surrounding the field, including some landscaping and lighting features, will not be completed for another three weeks to a month. The entire project cost around $2,500,000 to complete, $800,000 of which was paid for by donors.
The expansion of Endicott's athletic facilities doesn't end with North Field. In the coming years the College plans on building a fully equipped hockey rink and activity center.
Two sites have been proposed for the project, which are both under review by the local conservation commission. One proposal would place the new rink behind the Mods where the practice field is currently located. The advantage of this location is that traffic for the venue would not run through the main campus.
Although, the most promising site for the rink is behind the Callahan Center, where there is more room and where the arena would be more accessible.
Already students are excited about the project. Not only would it provide everyone with a place to skate, it would mean that the Endicott men's and women's club hockey teams would no longer have to find ice times at surrounding rinks. The addition of a rink on campus would also allow our club teams to enter officially into the NCAA as Division III teams.
"Having a rink on campus would allow my team and the hockey program in general to be better represented," explained Endicott College junior and captain of the women's hockey team, Jesse Bilafer. "It would positively represent the school, and would most likely attract more new students."
Aside from providing Endicott's hockey teams with a home rink and giving them the opportunity to enter into the NCAA, the space would be used for large concerts, performances, and community events. The arena will be able to accommodate between 1,500 and 2000 people.
Originally, the Endicott had hoped to be part-owners in a rink located off-campus in Beverly. The arena would have been built by the town and private developers, and Endicott's hockey teams would have been the primary users. "Unfortunately, the project just couldn't get off the ground", said Dr. Wylie. "So, about a year ago we pulled out of that deal."
Endicott College is still a large contributor to the Beverly community though, and plans on sharing the arena with the city. "There are a lot of young people here in the city that like to skate," Dr. Wylie explained, "and we want to be able to open this up to the community. We want to use this arena as a bridge that helps continue to connect Endicott to its neighbors."
Although the project is still in its formative stages, there are plans to make the building energy efficient. Endicott hopes to integrate solar technology to achieve at least 75% energy efficiency.
There is no definitive completion date for the project, but Dr. Wylie is sure that it will not be long.
Along with the recent North Field project, the current Life Sciences and Business and Technology Center construction, and the proposed hockey arena, Endicott will be starting a major expansion of the Callahan Center this spring.
This type of rapid infrastructure improvement and growth is part of what Dr. Wylie claims makes Endicott a unique and promising college. "These types of projects say three things: First, we manage the campus very well financially. We have no debt and when a lot of institutions are struggling financially and starting to cut, we're expanding. Second, it illustrates our creativity and potential to expand. Third, when we create new spaces we improve the quality of education and the potential for research."
Students Volunteer at Walk for Leukemia and Lymphoma
By Dina Cashman
On Sunday Sept. 29, eight students volunteered and participated in an event known as Light the Night Walk in Wakefield, Mass. The students' duties included helping with set-up, maintaining a kid-zone area, handing out T-shirts, registering, and making sure the walk ran smoothly.
Lauri Rawls, Director of Community Service, said that the walk was scheduled at a perfect time and had a close, convenient location.
According to Ahlea Isabella, a campaign coordinator, Light the Night Walk is an event that raises money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).
"During this leisurely walk, walkers carry illuminated balloons, white for survivors, red for supporters, and gold in memory of loved ones lost to cancer, Isabella said. "Thousands of walkers, men, women and children, form a community of caring, bringing light to the dark world of cancer.
One of the ambassadors for Light the Night Walk is Miranda Cosgrove, an actress/singer most known for TeenNick sitcoms "Drake and Josh and "iCarly.
This event is very similar to Relay for Life and Up Till Dawn, according to Rawls, but rather than running all night it is an hour long mile walk, and you can register for free, but donations are always accepted.
In addition to the Wakefield walk, LLS has walks in Nashua, NH, York, ME, Worcester, and Boston. Isabella said, "This was the biggest year for the Wakefield Walk since it started 14 years ago with over 800 registered participants and 80 teams raising close to $170,000, and added that the donations go towards "local, national and international blood cancer research projects and for patient services including the LLS co-pay assistance and financial aid programs.
The LLS hopes to raise 1.4 million throughout their five walks for Massachusetts.
Volume XV, Issue One, Tuesday, September 25, 2012
A Groovin’ Senior Internship
By Shayna Vigliotta
GrooveBoston has become one of Endicott’s biggest events over the past couple years. The Boston concert tour offers an experience focused on music, high-energy lighting, and some the best DJs around. Imagine not only encountering the experiencing when the company turns your college’s field house into a night club, but getting the chance to work behind the scenes and make it all happen.
Kenny Bonin, senior, knows exactly what that feels like.
The Visual Communications major scored an internship with the concert tour company, GrooveBoston. Although his plans for the future are undecided, he enjoys what he’s doing now.
"Working with the branding team at GrooveBoston has been a great experience thus far and definitely has me thinking more about heading in the branding direction," Bonin said.
He became familiar with GrooveBoston after attending three of the shows that were held at Endicott. When asked why he was interested in interning at GrooveBoston Bonin said, "Knowing that it perfectly combined my love of music and passing for art I became really excited at the chance to work such a surreal internship."
Before GrooveBoston, Bonin had internships with Lull and Hartford, a screening print company, and Gath Sign Co., a sign company. He enjoyed both experiences, but he has to say, GrooveBoston stands as his favorite internship site so far. And why wouldn’t it? The senior gets to attend GrooveBoston shows just like the tours that roll through Endicott, and this time, he helps make it happen.
Bonin works with the Branding Team as well as the Street Team for his internship with the concert company. The Street Team is a small group of people (including Endicott senior, Sean Teel, who informs students about upcoming dates and general news about GrooveBoston.)
Bonin takes control when it comes to the red carpet area. This is the first stop upon entering the concert tour, where students can have their pictures taken in front of a backdrop. He also edits and uploads the photos after the show.
On the weekends, Bonin has a lot of work to do—he usually enters the office at 10:00am and doesn’t break down the stage after a show until 3:00am the next morning. When Bonin was asked to describe one of the shows he has worked on recently, he explained, “The overall atmosphere was unreal.” He snapped pictures at the red carpet and during the show at Babson College. The show ended around 2:00am in the morning and that’s when the clean-up started. But according to Bonin, it’s all worth it.
Students Learn Sustainable Tourism While Abroad in Switzerland
By Dina Cashman
During this past summer, ten hospitality students took part in a trip to the Swiss Alps to study how to keep tourists coming back all year round with their leader Brendan Cronin, Operations Manager and Assistant Professor of the School of Hospitality Management.
As a leader, Cronin said he wanted his students to gain a good sense of independence instead of playing follow the leader. Surprisingly, thirty percent of the students in attendance were freshman. This experience allowed them to capture a small portion of what a semester abroad would be like. Not only did students have the opportunity to visit picturesque Switzerland, but the experience also served as a learning opportunity. The skills these students gained while studying abroad will stay with them for a lifetime.
Nicole Martins, freshman, said she initially felt intimidated by the upperclassmen but was glad she joined the trip because she wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet them otherwise. Nicole explained that the university they stayed at was not in session for the summer but they still had plenty of opportunities to make international friends. She enjoyed listening to the interesting stories from the bartender down the street whose son actually attended the school.
Nicole said it was difficult picking the best part of the trip but loved hanging out with friends, "My favorite experience on this trip would have to be watching the sun rises and sun sets over the mountain tops while having my feet propped up."
Katelyn Cahalane, a junior at Endicott, has never left the country with the exception of Canada and Mexico. Katelyn said, “Taking the Tourism class for three weeks really was the perfect amount of time for me. I was able to sample the Swiss culture and customs without missing home. Knowing that I was going to be home in three weeks instead of three months really allowed me to enjoy this experience. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone!”
The majority of students on the trip said they were happy with the fact they only traveled for three weeks rather than a few months, this way they could have the experience of being abroad without being homesick. The entire journey started right at the end of the semester and lasted from May 20th to June 10th.
Lauren Duddy, a junior hospitality student, expressed that she was very impressed with the trip to Switzerland, “We stayed at the Leysin American School and the staff was more than accommodating. They went out of their way to ensure we were satisfied with our living conditions and meal selections. The views throughout Switzerland were picturesque and certainly the highlight of my trip.”
In order to prepare for the trip the students enrolled in a 3 credit course that started mid-semester during the spring semester of last year. The students learned about sustainable tourism and the culture of Switzerland. Cronin said he prepared dishes of Swiss cuisine for the students to try. Each student was asked to create and research their own excursion to go on during the trip, once their research was complete they were designated as tour guide for the day by setting up transportation, activities, and food accommodations.
The group got to experience Evian, France for a day. It was here that they took a group photo and added individualized messages for professor Cronin. The students took the time to translate the messages in French so professor Cronin’s parents could enjoy the messages as well.
What Professor Cronin wanted most from students was for them to understand that their actions reflected not only themselves but also the school of hospitality, so he really wanted the students to put their best foot forward. He also hoped his students would have fun and to enjoy themselves as much as they could.
This trip originated as just one student’s thought and has now grown to a trip that is set to reoccur annually.
December 15, 2011 Volume XIV, ISSUE 5
Feature Articles
Internship with David Letterman
EC Goes Eco
Internship with David Letterman
By Zachary Carey
Carly Mearman, a senior communication major with a media studies concentration and a graphic design minor, wears many hats for her semester long internship at The Late Show with David Letterman, yet with her primary responsibilities in music.
Mearman’s internship came out of her desires to work somewhere in the entertainment industry and to be situated in New York City. She had previously interned at a fashion/beauty public relations company there to get acclimated to the NYC environment. It was through her internship coordinator that Mearman decided on applying for The Late Show with David Letterman.
Once Mearman applied for the internship, she received a response asking her to come to the city for an interview.
Mearman described it as "the most intense interview I have ever been through. Thanks to Endicott’s internship program, they were impressed with how many internships I had already completed, especially the extra New York City internship."
According to Mearman, 24 applicants showed up to be interviewed with 12 spots available.
"The interview was over four hours long and consisted of talking to the Vice President of Human Resources who runs the internship program as well as every one of the 8 departments that have internships. This includes music, talent, research, writers, writers’ production, 11th floor production, 12th floor production, and human interest," said Mearman.
After completing the interview and waiting a couple weeks, Mearman received another e-mail confirming that the music department had chosen her.
Mearman said, "Without hesitation I took the position."
She started early on August 22 and continues the job until December 23, working from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, picking up an extra day each week to the required hours.
Mearman has a variety of tasks for the music department.
She said, "On a daily basis I have to set up the band and Paul Shaffer’s [director of the CBS orchestra] dressing rooms and make sure everything is in place. I set up the music area on the stage every morning and go through all the music, making sure it is in a very specific order. When it is time for rehearsal I have to call the band and make sure they all get there on time. I sit in on every rehearsal in case I am needed to make copies or to get a certain piece of music. Then the music act for the show rehearses directly after. Right before the show I call the band to get on stage and I stand in the airlock during the show, which is the space right before you get on the stage, in case I am needed."
Besides plugging away with the band and guest musicians, Mearman also works in various other capacities.
Mearman said, "I have done tasks for the talent department such as buy items for celebrities’ riders as well as participate in a skit for production where I was actually on the show sitting next to Steve Martin."
Furthermore, she said, "I have also been able to sit in the control room during the show to see how the director works during the show."
Mearman said she enjoys the work atmosphere and environment at The Late Show with David Letterman. She described the work atmosphere there as "very friendly and supportive but very hard working." Another benefit to the internship she enjoys is working in the airlock.
Mearman explained, "While I am in the airlock I have to make sure I hold the door for all the celebrities who walk through. This is one of my favorite perks of the internship. I get to see the most amazing and talented people daily. It is an honor to be in the presence of some of the celebrities that come on the show."
\Mearman’s post-graduation plans are to work towards being a cheerleader for the NFL. However, she said that she would still like to work in television to some degree.
Mearman said, "I really want to work in the talent department and be a segment producer."
For those not familiar with exactly what a segment producer does, Mearman said, "This involves pre-interviewing celebrities as well as coordinating/coaching the celebrities through the entire process of being on the show."
In addition, Mearman expressed an interest in being involved with a late night or early morning show where promotional guests are showcased.
As her internship winds down, Mearman feels she has learned much about the entertainment industry.
Mearman said, "I know everything that goes on behind the scenes and it is interesting to watch television knowing what I know. I have also learned a lot about networking and working your way to be successful in this business."
She said that she has always had a desire to work with celebrities but never thought she would one day actually do it for a college internship.
Mearman said, "Some of my favorite guests that I have seen are Justin Timberlake, Johnny Depp, Ashton Kutcher, and Justin Bieber."
Overall, Mearman feels that this internship has provided her with valuable experience and has set her on the right track to her future.
She said, "I knew it would be a challenge and during the process I would gain the most valuable experience and knowledge to use for the rest of my life. I know that I am going to go amazing places from here because of this experience and the people I got to know."
EC Goes Eco
By Sean Ruvolo
Over the past few years, members of the Endicott Environmental Society (EES) have wanted food waste collection to be a part of Endicott's culture. Through the combined efforts of Sodexo employees and students throughout the campus, a pilot-test has started this semester that will incorporate Endicott into the process of food waste collection and composting.
What began as an environmental science research project has now turned into efforts toward a new way of recycling at the college. Endicott student, Hannah Lawson, completed a food waste audit on April 27, 2011. Results of the audit collected 347 lbs of food waste that Wednesday in the Callahan alone. The 347 lbs did not however, include pre-plate food waste, the food discarded before serving meals, which was approximately equal to the 347 lbs collected, according to Sodexo employees. This led to an estimate of 4,000 lbs food waste per week in the Callahan.
Realizing the potential of this, Sodexo employees began collecting food waste in the Callahan Dining Hall on November 8, 2011. Food waste bins are placed in the kitchens to collect pre-plate food waste, at the conveyor belt to collect the waste from student's plates, and finally in the dish washing area to gather excess waste. When full, the bins are brought into the back of the Callahan, where they are packed into ten food waste collection containers and hauled off to Brick Ends Farms for composting. Composting is not yet occurring at Endicott, due to concerns of a lack of composting area and the potential smell associated with it.
No one is more excited about this program than the general manager of Sodexo food services at Endicott College, Paul Belski.
He said, "I look at composting as the'new' recycling. The amount of organization and work behind food waste collection on campus is rewarding," Belski said. "You can actually see the results at the end of the process."
Since Endicott launched this pilot program in November, many tangible results have been reached. The college is depositing less waste in landfills, the cost of trash pick-up has decreased as well as the amount of water used in the previous disposal system.
"The staff has really done a great job of embracing the initiative and we have all learned a bit more about our environment" said Belski.
Sodexo employees play a major role not only in the diversion of food waste, but also in the detail of collection. Many Sodexo employees carefully oversee the food waste collections to be sure that no contaminants enter the bins. Items such as plastic and metal do not break down during composting, so the removal is crucial.
Going green could be a major part of Endicott's initiative going forward.
Alex Casioppo, coordinator of environmental affairs at the college, is excited to be a huge part of EC's environmental movement. After graduating from Endicott in 2008, Casiopp's contributions toward waste management and recycling rates have potentially been the main reason why the pilot-test is occurring on campus.
"If the pilot-test goes well, the next step involved would be to expand to other kitchens on campus" said Casioppo.
Other dining areas such as The Lodge, Joe's Café, AC café and La Chanterelle could have there own containers used for the collection of food waste.
"The more we recycle, the less that gets landfilled" said Casioppo, as he looks forward to this positive change here.
Students in the Endicott Environmental Society are looking forward to the effects of'going green' on campus.
"I hope this program shines a light on this important issue" said Jay Martel, Vice-President of the EES. "Trash ends up everywhere, including our oceans and rivers."
EES President, Joe Albert looks forward to bringing awareness to this issue as well. He said, "Food composting is something the whole community can benefit from. It can bring about an awareness of food waste issues, and spur a healthier lifestyle amongst students on campus."
Going forward, the success of the food waste collection at Endicott has nothing but positive benefits.
Paul Belski is pleased with the changes occurring across campus, "It's been great to work with Alex the past year to increase overall recycling in all of our operations across campus."
Belski is excited to see the results from the food waste collection, and incorporate this throughout Endicott.
"We look forward to bigger and better things regarding the environment, as we partner with others across campus to make everyday a better day" he said.
The efforts of Sodexo to collect food waste and transport it to Brick Ends Farms for composting is certainly a 'green' action that deserves recognition throughout campus. Through the help of Sodexo, EES, the physical plant and students across campus, this idea has now been put into action.
For more information regarding food waste collection, composition or environmental awareness contact the Endicott Environmental Society.
November 15, 2011 VOLUME XIV, ISSUE 4
Featured Articles
Alumnus Becomes a Book Author
Bon Appetite at La Chanterelle
Alumnus Becomes a Book Author
By Bailey Marquis
After graduation students have to pound the pavement to find a job, a task not as easy as hopeful undergrads would like to think. Often times, unfortunately, this means putting personal dreams on hold to find a practical career that will bring in the dough. But if you are passionate, talented and a little lucky, you can put your passion to use, on your way to a dream job soon after you have moved your tassel from the right to the left side of your cap.
This was the case for 2010 Endicott graduate, Geeta Schrayter. Equipped with a communication degree and journalism concentration, Schrayter was able to get her first book published just over a year out of college. After graduation, Schrayter picked up a post graduate job in retail. However, she also devoted herself to a second job: writing. Schrayter said she always loved to write and knew she wanted to be a writer since elementary school. She took this passion to heart while working in retail, dedicating hours at a time outside of the sales floor at the local Starbucks with her laptop screen open to write her first novel.
Schrayter explained how her dedication was important to her success.
"I wanted to be a writer, and I said to myself, 'I'm going to finish my book, find myself a publisher and get my book published,'" Schrayter said. And that is just what she did.
The idea for her novel
Reaching Riverdale came to Schrayter when she was a senior in high school. Visiting Vermont with her family made her recognize her appreciation for both small towns and big cities. This "contradictory love," as she describes it, shines through as a major theme in her book that follows the story of Annabelle Roth, a girl fearful of remaining stuck in the small New England town she grew up in. As a result, Annabelle moves to the city for college, only to return home years later, leading her to reconnect with her high school boyfriend and learn about herself as well as the small town she ran away from. Schrayter believes that in all writing, at least some of the authors' life and experiences are expressed. This is certainly true for
Reaching Riverdale.
She said, "The main character and I share a lot of the same struggles, but my life did not play out the way the main characters' did."
Schrayter began working on Reaching Riverdale while at Endicott, but did not catch a chance to truly focus on it until after graduation
Sitting down to devote more time to her novel, she was able to complete the first draft by the fall of 2010, just a few months after commencement. In January 2011, she made a contract with The Little Things Publishing Company located in Chicago and dedicated to publishing independent fiction writers. From there, she was given an editor and publicist to work with. Over the next few months Schrayter communicated with her editor via email, reviewing her book section by section and making changes. In May and June she began working with the illustrator for the cover, and by July was working with her publicist to start promoting the book by means of Facebook, Twitter and her blog. The book was published to be sold by The Little Things Publishing, Barnes & Noble, Indie Bound, Amazon.com and Books-a-Million.
Schrayter said she was most excited about finishing her book and letting others read it because she had been so secretive about it during the writing process. She described how it was exciting to hear feedback from people who had read the book and told her they felt like they were there. Through Facebook, she was able to read posts from people who had just read the book and pictures of friends who had just received it in the mail.
Currently, Schrayter is working on her second book that will be finished by early 2012. This book also takes from her personal experience. It focuses on the Indian culture that was integrated into her childhood and that she experienced while spending months in the country.
Schrayter continues to update her fans on her life and progress on her book through blog (
geetaschrayter.com), Twitter (@princessgeeta) and her Facebook page (Geeta Schrayter).
For those undergrads dreaming of becoming a writer, Schrayter said, "Don't give up. People think it's not practical, but it can happen. Stay determined. If you love writing I firmly believe that you should write."
Bon Appetite at La Chanterelle
Shannon Ryan
Want the chance to experience fine dining right on campus? La Chanterelle, the non-traditional classroom serviced by Endicott's Hospitality Management students, is open every Thursday from 6:30-9 pm in Misslewood, serving up an a la carte three-course meal.
Once entered through the front doors, guests are ushered into the tasting room. Here, various samples of wine can be tasted while students give explanations of its history. The first of four stagiaires supervises the tasting room. The stagiaires drive the restaurant. If they were not there to guide and teach the students, La Chanterelle would not be as successful as it is.
Under the direction of Henric Persson, the students learn wine knowledge. With Persson's experience at Les Roches Hotel Management School in Switzerland and in Spain, Sweden, Thialand, and Aspen, students learn skills from all around the world. Next, guests socialize in one of Misslewood's rooms overlooking the ocean. From here, students escort guests to their table as they begin their dining experience.
Long before guests, arrival prep work is done before the restaurant can open its doors. Tasks such as setting the tables and preparing food are completed by students in the Services Management course. The Services Management course is split into two groups, the first comes in to prepare the restaurant at 3:00 p.m., and the second arrives at 6:00 p.m. to wait on the guests. These groups switch off every other week. Promptly at the beginning of class, students are required to complete uniform inspections: girls have to wear classy make-up and subtle studs, and both males and females wear matching uniforms for prep work and service.
Steffi Juenemann, the Service Stagiaire, said she brings "developments and ideas to the students." She attempts to focus on management and not on waiting or waitressing. Juenemann assigns quizzes and projects to students for assessing their progress. She highly encourages creativity as long as the students have strong explanations.
Patrick J. Cornelissen, the Restaurant Manager, said La Chanterelle "consists of two classes, which need to work hand-in-hand to make each part work. The Culinary class prepares and cooks the food, while the Service Management class sets up the room and serves the food. When those two classes are in balance and complement each other, only then can great customer experience be the outcome."
This balance and communication is accomplished with the help of Micah Abrams, the third stagiaire, who is the kitchen expeditor. He teaches students basic fine dining techniques and passes on his wealth of knowledge. Abrams attended Les Roches Hotel Management School in Spain and he has years of experience in front desk training, sales and marketing, and fine dinning from Maine, Colorado, and Portugal. Abrams' understanding of the importance of communication translates to the students in the kitchen during service.
A behind the scenes shows how this fully functioning restaurant comes together on a night of service. Around 7:30p.m., the kitchen is in full swing. Water is boiling as steam bellows in the air and the delicious smell of pan seared red snappers envelopes your nose.
Professor Brendan Cronin, the Operations Manager/Assistant Professor in the School of Hospitality Management is assisting students in the Culinary Arts class. These students get hands-on experience in their field by preparing and cooking all of the food served at La Chanterelle themselves. Every two weeks they switch the menu.
This coming week, they will be serving green salad, escargot, or pan-seared red snappers for starters. This is followed by a choice of baked stuffed chicken breast, roast smoked duck filet, or sautéed house-marinated shrimp. The last course gets even better. The dessert options are tiramisu or forbidden plum, both carefully crafted and prepared under the direction of the final stagiaire.
Tayna Strochlendorf, the pastery stagiaire at La Chanterelle, has studied in countries across the globe and passes on her techniques and experience to students.
Cronin said students learn "social skills in this practical course." He explains the great pride the teachers take in teaching skills to their students and having them apply them in real life.
Cornelissen said, "The skills learned here are transferrable to any part of our vast industry; from attention to detail, to guest interaction and teamwork. Once a student understands the importance of these crucial points, they can start to see how, with simple steps, they can make a difference in their companies when they start working."
When talking to students about their first-year experiences in this hands-on environment they said it's good to get hands-on experience. Most said it was a really fun class.
Allison Cryan said, "It's fun and interesting. A good experience but stressful."
Student, Lauren Lossani, said, "It gets stressful at times but it's good for learning." Freshmen explained that it really builds a strong team since in the beginning of the year. No one knew each other and now they all work together. Many of the sophomores and freshmen expressed serving as their favorite duty, while others enjoyed preparing the food. Freshman, Anthony Trifone said, "Preparing the food is the best because you can taste everything." Within both groups of the Services Management class though, learning was all about patience and working with the dinner guests.
Guests coming to La Chanterelle are typically well aware that it is a working classroom. They are encouraged to fill out an experience card in order to benefit the students. Here they can rate and comment on everything from the dinner, service, to the appeal and appearance of the dishes.
Call (978)-232-3040 to make your reservation for one of the Thursday night settings running now until December 8th.