C.A.S.O!

When I first arrived at Texas State, besides getting accomadated in my new room, learning the ropes around campus, and trying to make new friends, one of the things that was on my mind was finding a job! Luckily, I was eligible for a work study position on campus and got hired as an Activities Associate at the Campus Activities and Student Organizations office, located on the fourth floor of the LBJ Student Center. Initially, it was very hard to soak in everything, for I was expected to know about all student organizations (there are nearly 400 registered organizations), all of the greek soroities and fraternities, how to answer phones, and know where the bathroom was just in case anybody should ask. Although it was a copious amount of information, I got the hang of it. Now I am happy to say that I am apart of the CASO family. I get to work with awesome students and campus faculty, as well as get the inside scoop on all the different acititvies that are going on around campus. So if you ever need to know anything, want to learn more about a specific club, or just want to know where the bathroom is on the fourth floor of LBJ, come by the CASO desk and I'll be glad to help!

Tailgating!

Over the Fall 2008 football season, a group of friends and I attending the pre-game festivities at every home game, also known as tailgating! There was plenty of bands during the Homecoming Tailgate, as well as awesome music being played by the Hip Hop Congress. Tailgates give students the opportunity to mingle and make memories with friends, new and old, and allow Texas State students and staff to support our BOBCATS! With the variety of free food, free music, and a free tan, I do not see why anyone would miss out on all the fun!

Sights and Sounds

Over this past weekend, a friend from UT and I were looking for something interesting to do, then I remembered about Sights and Sounds. It is a carnival type event held near Sewell Park. Everything is luminated by Christmas lights, there is tons of food, and a handfull of carvial rides and games. My friend and I walked around in awe; it was just really a picturesque scene. It is a very romantic setting, yet I saw plenty of families and groups of young people hanging out and enjoying themselves. One of my favorite parts of the night was when I got to walk around eating a funnel cake and listen to an awesome band play my favorite Christmas music. Tonight is the last night, so anyone who hasn't gone yet, I suggest you go!

Basketball Season

At the first home game November 19, the Bobcat Men's Basketball team beat Houston-Tilloton. I felt the enviorment is more exciting in the Straham Stadium than the football stadium. The Loud Crowd really gets into it and everyone is a lot closer to the court, so you will feel apart of the game. It was the first time I had a lot of school spirit and I could not help but jump up with an anxious feeling, hoping the shooter will make the free throw. Boko also played a big part in the game. He was very funny, for example he would take someone's purse and run away with it to liven up the game and put smiles across faces. The cheerleaders were entertaining as well and so was the band's half time performance. Since Straham is a lot smaller than the football stadium it is easier to get a packed house. I encourage everyone to attend the games, you will love the atmosphere and all the crazy fans, promise.

Getting lost in the woods!

This past weekend me and two friends of mine went camping at Pedernales State park near Johnson city. It was beautiful, there were these dried water falls that you can walk on and there were naturally made tunnels that you could go through and many other things. I was about 5:30 p.m. and we decided to head back to the truck so we could head back to Texas State. We thought it would be a good idea to leave the trail and cut across to another one. Our plan failed and it grew dark on us, all we had was two flash lights and a compass. We ended up being lost for two and a half hours in the dark when we finally decided to just go east until we hit the river. when we finally got back to the truck it was 9:00 p.m.!! It was an experience i will never forget and it turned out to be a lot of fun.

Taser Game

I had a great time at the football games this year, there was one game that i will never forget though. I was tailgating with some friends of mine in the parking lot and all of the sudden a college student ran through all of our stuff. Following shortly after him were two police officers and the next thing i knew that guy was on the ground shaking. Thats when i realized it was because he got tased!! It was definetly a game to remeber, also because we were playing Texas Southern and the half time show was amazing, and most importantly, WE WON!!

Glass Bottom Boat Ride

Our class adventnure to Aquarena Springs for the glass bottom boat ride was extremely fun for me. I am a certified scuba diver, and i love everything that has to do with water so this experience was one of my funnest experiences of the year. I would like to get the special certification that you have to have to dive in the area we explored on the boat.

This past weekend San Marcos hosted the annual Sights and Sounds. I went with 2 friends on friday and although we were a bit cold I can honestly say I had a great time. Not to mention I saw the rest of the San Marcos residents. There were small concerts going on and skits. I really enjoyed the petting zoo and of course the turkey legs and the rest of the food. Waiting in the long lines for the rides was worth it. I felt like I was in a mini 6 Flags. The lights were beautiful and they had christmas characters everywhere. I can not wait until I get to go next year.

Sights and Sounds

This past weekend San Marcos hosted the annual Sights and Sounds. I went with 2 friends on friday and although we were a bit cold I can honestly say I had a great time. Not to mention I saw the rest of the San Marcos residents. There were small concerts going on and skits. I really enjoyed the petting zoo and of course the turkey legs and the rest of the food. Waiting in the long lines for the rides was worth it. I felt like I was in a mini 6 Flags. The lights were beautiful and they had christmas characters everywhere. I can not wait until I get to go next year.

Lantana holds Finals Stress Reliever

Last week Lanata hosted a stress reliever party. Since Lantana is an all girl dorm it needless to say it was a free environment for girls to just let loose and take off some of that finals pressure. The Lantana RA’s organized yoga class so every girl could finally relax. They also had an assortment of smoothies, which I found very refreshing. Along with yoga and smoothies, we also got a chance to make some Christmas Cards or like many of the girls signs on how much they love Twilight. It was also a bonding experience and a great way to be ready for this weeks finals.

Italian Garden

The Italian Garden located on 415 N LBJ Dr is not a far walk for most Texas State students. They offer Italian dishes and complete every meal with complementary bread. I found their eggplant lasagna to be very appetizing. Although it is a small restaurant it surely does not have a small selection of dishes. It was cooked perfectly and I almost asked for a second plate. With the lasagna I received a Cesar salad. I am a big salad fan but I found the salad to be a little too much. A tip I would give is to cut back a little on that salad dressing. The waitress was very pleasant and helpful in ordering. It is cheaper than eating at the Olive Garden or Chili’s. I am looking forward to the next time I will dine at the Italian Garden and encourage student to go.

Indian Festival!

On November 19, a few of my girlfriends and I were grabbing food at LBJ and we saw a ton of people outside. There were little tents and booths with merchandise such as dream catchers, indian jewelry, etc. We were really suprised and very intrigued and then we came to find out it was an Indian festival to celebrate Native American month, whcih is obviously November. It was really cool to sit and watch. They had tons of people dressed up in Indian clothes and big head dresses. They had dancers outside performing as well as story tellers. The audience was able to participate in the dancing as well. It was really cool to see more about this culture. Very interesting indeed.

Becoming a Bobcat

As freshmen, we all had to go through orientation. We all came down sometime in the summer and registered for classes and met a few people, that we all hoped would be our friends come the start of school. Then when we arrived with suitcases and parents close behind we were put into Paws Preview groups. We sat in a room, most of us in the same room in McCoy, and we talked about swipes and our dorms and we even got to meet our US 1100 teacher Mrs. Fox. After a lot of get to know your neighbor games and waiting in line for lunch at commons (unless you were cool and got to eat in your room), we all went on a field trip that symbolized the rest of our lives. We all had to make the long trek from whatever building we were in with our Paws Preview leader, down past the JCK building, into Sewell park, and into the Strahan Coliseum. Most of us were out of breath, and for me not being used to humidity yet, I was dying.

When our seats were found by color and number, and we were sitting next to those still hopeful friends, Convocation began. While the band was in the far corner playing our fight song, I sat there and realized, I am in college now. The speakers that kept going up on stage kept talking about the class of 2012, and it took me a minute to realize that I had just changed from the best high school senior class of 2008, to becoming a freshman again. It was wierd to feel that change and yet it was satisfying in a way. I had just seen myself take a step toward my future, something that isn't seen as much as it happens. When President Trauth got up on stage and finally welcomed us as a new class of Bobcats, ones with traditions, and thoughts of our own, that would inevitably change Texas State and make it bigger and better then before.

Being a freshman, I do not know a lot about the last classes of Texas State. All I have is the stories my older friends tell me, and already I am seeing a difference, not just to the school, but to the people. I have seen my friends grow up and when we went home for Thanksgiving, I realized that we are the still the class of 2008, but we are just improved and for us to be better then the rest it is going to take a few years, say 2012? When I tell people that I am from Colorado, they are always shocked that I am here, and not at a school back home. To that shock I respond, the school is good and the people are better, so why not come to school where I want to be and know I will like? As much as I love home, I consider Texas State a new home, where Convocation was the front door being opened and I am standing in the hallway.

So the best way to sum this up would be in one simple phrase: EAT 'EM UP CATS!!!!

Pacquiao vs De La Hoya

This past Saturday night at my roommates aunts' house, I had the pleasure of watching the Manny Pacquiao vs Oscar De La Hoya fight. Pacquaio is considered to be the best pound for pound boxer in the world right now. He's held that title ever since Floyd Mayweather retired. On Saturday night Pacquiao proved that he was the best boxer by destroying De La Hoya for eight rounds. From the first ten seconds of the fight it was clear that Pacquaio was just too quick and talented for De La Hoya. The southpaw tore up De La Hoya's face to the point where Oscar could barely open his left eye. The disappointing part was that it didn't seem like De La Hoya was even fighting back. The fight was called after eight rounds because De La Hoya was taking too many big punches to the head and Manny Pacquiao is currently the welterweight champion.

Michael Quintanilla: Confessions of a Disco Maniac

During Mass Comm Week there were many people speaking and events taking place. After consideration I decided to attend the Michael Quintanilla’s: Confession of a Disco Maniac. It started off with an introduction and some groovy music. Quintanilla is an established journalist and has been to places like Milan and Paris where he has done fashion work as well. He talked about stories growing up in San Antonio which is also my home town. He also spoke about people who influenced him. His most influential person was no other but his mother, who use to drive him to the night crime scenes where his stories would take place. I was most inspired by his work done at the LA Times. The story that came close to home was one about the discrimination between Mexican American children. After Quintanilla shared a personal story about a friend of his whom past away from AIDS, there was no dry eye in the room. I felt every story had a meaning and it was up to us to interpret it for ourselves. He is currently a reporter for the San Antonio Express News. Throughout the event Quintanilla pulled things from his trunk and taught his audience the tips, they include:
1.Listen to tape-recorded interviews with a critical ear. Do you interrupt the speaker too often?

2.If you see something interesting three times, it merits a story.

3.Carry a notebook and jot down interesting phrases or dialog.

4.Eavesdrop.

5.Hang out after the interview is “over.” The best zingers often come when your sources think the interview is over.

6.Be aware that your reputation often precedes you and act accordingly.

7.Be willing to experiment with different mediums and with writing style, incorporate dialog and use first or third person.

8.Read your stories aloud and listen for rhythm and cadence. (www.txstatemcweek.com)

Picture by Janelle Madrid

Mass Comm Week

I didn’t know exactly what I was getting myself into. I simply checked in, got a name tag and just walked into the room. It was a Mass Communications career fair and from the name I should have known better. In the ballroom in LBJ I ran into a lot of unfamiliar faces. Many of them were seniors looking to advance into the career field after their graduation in the spring. I felt out of place because I’m just a freshman. I walked around and there was a few companies taking resumes, I wasn’t prepared. SXSW were taking interested people who wanted to participate in the up-coming festivals. Grande Communications and Time Warner were taking applications. There were also two new broadcast companies looking for new faces as well. I stood in the background of the career fair because I felt it wasn’t my time. I just stood nearby and watched the seniors work their magic as they choose the table of their career. It felt good to know that when I was really ready that this kind of opportunity would be open to me. With the economy in the kind of bad shape it’s a relief that there might still be a job waiting for me and someone there to offer it as well.

The guy who preached in the Quad...

One thing I’ve always notice about the Quad is that it’s always busy. Everybodu usually has to walk through if from time to time to get to their classes and I guess that’s why it’s the perfect place to get people’s attention. I can’t walk through the Quad without being pressured to take a flyer from Green Peace or a roll from the Japenese Club, it can get intense and so it did in this Spetember. A random guy I’m not sure his name decided to organize this public speaking. He caught my attention one day as I was walking to Centnial for my Communications class. I was in a rush but couldn’t help but to stop and stare as he was screaming at the top of his lungs that gay marriage is wrong. It was shocking to witness such a thing, someone so brave to express that kind of opinion when that subject is viewed widly here on campus. I stood and watched him get attacked by outraged on lookers, I knid of felt bad for the guy. He held a Bible in his hand and tried his best to preach what he thought was right. It was kind of hard to watch and listen to as he stood on the Stallion statues. I walked away in shock from that day forth I understood what the Quad was all about. I heard form a couple of my classmates that he had organized other times he would preach his word in the Quad and I decided to go to see if his message had changed or if he was as crazy as I thought. Again he stood in the same place holding the same Bible preaching his same views, it amazed me this time because he had a community of bi-sexuals, lesbians,and gays standing near his feet protesting his every word. Some of it was hialrious, a lot of it was taken a lot lighter than I expected something of that mass would. I let the scene shaking my head and even laughing and found out that soon after I left someone had actually hit the guy, I felt really bad.

Mass Comm Organization

There are many mass comm organizations on campus but one I am apart of is the Mass Comm FIG, or freshman interest group. Not only is it a well organized group, it is also necessary for majoring in mass communications. In our FIG on November 14, we traveled to San Antonio and visited KGB Texas Public Relations and Ad Firm. It is a very popular firm in San Antonio and employs nearly 30 people being one of the biggest firms in Texas. They also have a firm located in Houston, Texas. We also visited KSAT the news station. KSAT is the San Antonio news that you can watch on channel 12 and is also known as ABC. It was a great experience for not only our FIG, but for me personally wanting to major in public relations.

Herberts Mexican restaraunt

Herberts Mexican Restaraunt is located off of highway I-35 in San Marcos. This restaraunt is one of San Marcos' best kept secrets. The food there is well cooked and delicious. It is not an average Texas Mexican restaraunt. It is truely the taste of Mexico. The restaraunt is not that expensive and is kind of hidden, hints the secret of it all. I suggest everyone who enjoys mexican food to eat there at least once before you leave San Marcos.

Football Games

Football games are a must to attend at Texas State. The games are fun and a good way to show your school spirit.

The football team won the Southland conference this year and made it to the first round of playoffs.

New Bobcat

As I think back on the traditions that I have taken part in at Texas State my first semester, none sticks out in my mind quite like The Stallions. For those who don't know The Stallions are considered our free speech area on campus and students are allowed to state their minds as they feel. When I walk through the Quad it seems as if life is brought to our campus when students take part in the traditions brought to us by the Stallions. Whether it be rubbing the Stallions for good luck on a test or just speaking your mind about a situation there is an undeniable pules that surges through our campus when people join together on the statue.

Sights and Sounds

On December 5, my friends and I went to to Sights and Sounds about 3 miles away from campus. The event was like a miniature carnival to celebrate Christmas. The event was held at Sewell Park and had numerous activities to enjoy. You could watch the performers on the stage, go on the rides, or just walk around and drink hot chocolate. Sights and Sounds kind of kicked off the beginning of Christmas in San Marcos.

Glass Bottom Boat

It is a common experience for students at Texas State to ride the famous Glass Bottom Boat. On this ride you so many cool thing s about the campus. If I had not have gone on this ride I would have never learned how historic and amazing our campus was. Our campus I naturally beautiful to the naked eye but there is so much more underneath it all. I am intentionally writing this blog in a mysterious manner because I want other to check it out for themselves. That way they can learn of its wonders on their own.

Having problems with your classes?

If you're having problems with studying for exams or just need a little help with your homework, then The Student Learning Assistance Center (SLAC) is the solution for your problems. SLAC is an academic support program for all Texas State students, free of charge. Thanks to one of my teachers I discovered how helpful the SLAC program is. In just 30 minutes, most of the things that seen complicated in math became simple. One on one tutoring makes everything more clear and understandable. I regret not knowing about this program since the beginning of the semester, because it really made a difference in my learning experience. So, I suggest you don’t let an opportunity like this slide through your hands and visit the 4th floor of the Alkek Library.

(Video from the SLAC’s website)

Dead Presidents Club

The Dead Presidents Club was a comedic play that I went to for my common experience. In the play past presidents, Richard Nixon, Lyndon B. Johnson, Calvin Coolidge, and Harry Truman are detained in barracks but the detainers are scrutinizing saints who are supposed to determine the presidents' fate. The presidents were placed in a purgatory where you're supposed to better yourself but the presidents were criticizing each other and their faults. In the play God was a black woman and each president had to plead their case to her of why they should be released. The God sends each of them back as a different species and they come back and are supposed to have learned. This play was an unusual comedy.

Tantra Coffeehouse

About a week or so ago, a friend and I decided we would break the monotony of sitting around doing nothing by doing what most do in a time of boredom: find somewhere to buy something. We walked down towards HEB on Hopkins St. when we saw a coffeehouse across the street named Tantra. Having never been to this place before, we decided to check it out. As we approached the entrance, we realized that this truly was a coffeehouse. It looked as if someone had bought the house on the corner of the street and converted it into a place of business. To our right as we entered was a yard that had been converted to a sort of courtyard with a stage, chairs, tables, a DJ booth, and a playground set. As we entered the house, the aroma of coffee flooded our nostrils and I began to walk around. Each of the rooms was decorated with art and adorned with couches, chairs, and other places to sit and converse. The place even had free wi-fi which could be used in any of the rooms. I, not having much money at the time, just got a glass of herba mate. It was great. My friend that I was with, however, ordered a hummus wrap (as strange as it sounds) and said that it was one of the best things he had ever tasted. My conclusion: Tantra is a great place to hang out, have some coffee, eat some food, and study (maybe).

Anne Tiedt

During Mass Comm week I got to hear a speaker for public relations. Anne Tiedt talked about the ten things to know when working in public relations. The first thing you should know is that comprehensive communication efforts are most effective. Second, PR is more than just calling the media. Third, clients and companies always want the article, followed by what is news? Next is how to get the ink including the four keys to PR success. The next thing to know is what makes a good PR practitioner, then what to do when the media calls. What is special about your graduating class is number eight on the list followed by "not personal, just business," and finally the last thing to know is the "now what?" factor. Anne Tiedt runs her own public relations practice in Austin, Texas and has worked with numerous companies such as Cricket. My proof of this event is the evidence of her phone number and e-mail.

512-292-4200, programs@awicaustin.org

Grins is a casual dinning establishment. Like the name suggests it is a good place to hang out and have good time with your friends. The restaurant offers a wrap around deck with outside seating available in case you want to enjoy the fresh air. The prices are fairly reasonable and they offer a wide variety of food from tex-mex to hamburgers. The hamburgers are their signature food item and they are great. They also have great home style cooking like fried chicken and chicken fried steak. What I liked about the place was the laid back atmosphere mixed with good food at a decent price. Although, I showed up an hour before close so I couldn't help but get the feeling as if I was being rushed to put in my order and eat my food. With the rushing of my dinner aside, this is a nice place and it is worth checking out for yourself. I wouldn't suggest this place as a first date by any means , but definitely a place that you and your friends can meet up to have good time and enjoy a good meal.

Basketball Game!

On December 3, I attended the girls and boys basketball games at Texas State. It was a whole different experience than I had ever expected. There wasn’t a lot of peole at the first game, but it was also the girls first home game. The lack of people didn’t mean much though. The fans were still very loud! I was there for band, so I got to be with some of the loudest fans of them all. I didn’t think that some of the people out of the band would have been that into it, but they were. It was really kind of cool because of all the spirit they all had. It kind of seemed like there was more spirit there than at the football games. The loud crowd would hit stuff to make really loud noises, and some band members would write stuff all over white boards to either show their support for the bobcats, or to put down the other team. That was something that I really didn’t appreciate though. The fans were really kind of mean. They would say really negative things to the other team, and try to do rude things that would throw them off. I’m not really a fan of that type of school spirit. It kind of gives schools bad images. Plus it was making fun of other teams players. All together though, I had a blast and am glad that both Bobcat teams won!

Go Bobcats!

The Texas State fight song is something that I have heard since the very beginning of the year. I’m was in the marching band, and we had summer band before school started. After one of our practices that week the drum majors told the freshmen to stand in a group and let everyone else face us, and I was thinking what is going on. Then they told us that they were going to sing the fight song and we were going to have to repeat it. I figured it was going to be easy because they said it first, but then they went through it really fast. When it was the freshmen’s turn we kind of just stood there claping our hands. We had no clue what to do. They went through it again for us, but we still didn’t get it. They told us to learn it and try it again the next time. We came back the next day, and tried to do it again. It was much better. Apparently this is just a tradition that they do every year. It was kind of nice to get into the spirit. After this time, I learned the song and I don’t think I can ever forget it. After every rehearsal this year we would play or sing the song, and at every game we would play it like a billion times. Its definetly a song that I don’t think I will ever be able to forget! Go Bobcats!

"Go Bobcats"
Go Bobcats all the way,Keep that maroon and gold on high!
Fight on for every playuntil you hear that Bobcat battle cry!
We're gonna cheer for our team today, Until the whole world knows our name.
No doubt about it,We're gonna shout it —Bobcats will win this game!

Eat em' up cats

So as a freshman here at amazing Texas State we must all attend Paws Preview. As the last day of Paws Preview we were taken to Straghan Collesium to listen to the Convocation and speaker Lyndon Nughet, and also the President of Texas State. That was such a cool experience to see how passionate these speakers were about Texas State. Boko and the Texas State cheerleaders came out and did a few routines for us. Everyone looked so beautiful, and had a lot of school pride! Go get em' Texas State!
-Kelsey Kerr

Wanna see some action!!

I love soccer and am a soccer player myself. I went to one of the 1st soccer games of the year here at Texas State. Wow our girls are amazing, they had me at the edge of my seat the entire game! Our girls roughed up the Colorado State team they were playing. If anyone really wants to see a good soccer team with athletes who play at 100 % then you must attend a Texas State soccer game. The speed and determination I saw in these girls performance was Fabulous.Everyone should attend atleast one game next season!
-Kelsey Kerr

Italian Anyone ??

Valentinos pizza on LBJ is such a great place to go and eat with friends or family. It's kind of like a whole in the wall so to say, but once you step inside and see how homey it is you will love it. I went there my first time a few weeks ago with a friend to try it. We talked to the manager about the different types of pizzas and the prices. She was very polite and friendly, and suggested to save money that we just eat at the buffet they were having. The buffet is most deffinatly worth the money and their pizza is amazing. It is deffinalty a place to try here on the square in San Marcos!
-Kelsey Kerr

12 Angry Men

On November 17th I attended the movie showing of 12 Angry Men. This event was run by SACA for a Common Experience event on campus. 12 Angry Men is a movie about a jury who is supposed to declare a boy innocent or guilty for killing his father. The men go into a room and on the first vote get a result of 11- 1, guilty. The problem with this though is that they can’t tell the judge their decision without it all being for guilty or innocent. The one man who voted innocent tries to explain to the others why he wants to at least give the boy a chance. He talks through all the steps of the night the boy’s father died, and all the reasons why he might have not killed him, to persuade the others to at least give the boy a chance.

I had seen this movie previously to that night, and knew how the ending would turn out. Because I knew how it would turn out, I was able to pay more attention to some of the extra things the characters were doing. I saw how they tried to portray their characters, through their clothing, accents, acting, and simple hand gestures. They were all very distinct and perfect about what they did. Everything about them matched their personality and attitudes perfectly. I have always had a liking of politics and the way government stuff works, so this film was pretty enjoyable to me, but for some friends I had gone with me it wasn’t as much. I was able to see the differences in all of my friends, the rest of the audience and myself. If was kind of nice to see that we all react to things differently in our own special ways. This movie had a great lesson of think before reacting. Many times we just do, or say something without thinking about what it could do to hurt someone else’s feelings. This movie helped place that into perspective. I really enjoyed this movie and recommend for everyone else to see it!

Feeling a bit dizzy?

On Tuesday, I called the Health Center on campus because I had fainted twice on Sunday. I called to see if whether it was a place where you just get band aids or they actually have doctors on call. At first I thought that the lady that had answered the phone was just someone sitting in the reception area, but as we talked more, she introduced her self as a nurse. I was quite pleased that I had been telling my experience to someone professional rather than someone sitting in the reception area reading the latest issue of Cosmo. She was very helpful, she told me that to see a doctor was free, but since I probably had to get some test done, I would have to pay for the service. She also told me a few things that could had caused me to faint. All I had to do was called the morning of the day that I would like to go in to see a doctor, pretty simple.
That whole afternoon, I was undecided about going in to see a doctor on campus or waiting to go back home and seeing someone there. On Wednesday, I made up my mind, and decided to make an appointment at the Health Center on campus. I made an appoint for Thursday at 4:00. I was scared all day. I didn't want to find out that I had a deadly disease or that I had 37 hours left to live, or even worse, that they needed take blood out!
I asked my friends to come with me because I'm too much of a chicken. I arrived and filled out a paper. I thought I would have to wait ages for them to call me up, but I wasn't even done filling out the paper when they called my name, it was so quick! I inspected the room while I waited for the doctor, it was very neat and clean, just how I like 'em. The doctor came in and I told her what happened. She gave me a physical and said everything was pretty normal. She was extremely cool and made me feel very comfortable (her eyeshadow was nicely done as well!) She did tell me that they needed to run some test on my blood. I tried really hard not to cry. But, I agreed to do it the next day.
Friday morning tumbled by and I was scared because if there's something that I dislike more than my sister-in-law, it's needles! I faint every time I see needles, I was ready for the worse to come.
When I arrived, I waited in the lobby full of desperation in my eyes. I kept repeating the words "oh my gosh" in my head. I went to the back and a nurse took me to the room where they were going to take my blood out. I was freaking out. As he prepared the needle, I asked how long it would take, how much he was getting out, I warned him about my phobia and all he said was, " it will take a cupple of seconds." I didn't trust him. He sat next to me and prepared my arm. He told me to look away. I looked away, not because he told me to but because I wanted to cry.
Oh my gosh it was horrible. I couldn't stand it any longer! I wanted to get it over with! I was wondering what was taking him so long to put the needle in. I began to worry and think there was something wrong with my vains so I asked him if he was going to put it in. I turned around and he had already filled one of the tubes up with blood. I didn't even feel the needle go in!
I was amazed! He said he was almost done. So, I turned back around, relieved. He then asked me if I was excited about Christmas and I thought to myself, "oh great, he's making conversation now, that means it's going to take long!" But before I would even respond, he told me we were done. I was shocked. My heart filled with happiness. I couldn't believe how painless and fast the whole process went. I told him he was amazing! He then called in another nurse and she stayed there with me for a bit. I did feel drowsy for a few minutes and my pressure was low, but I was so happy that the worse was over.
I'm so happy that I choose to go to the Health Center here on campus. Everyone I spoke to was extremely nice. They were very patient with me. I don't think I'm as afraid of needles as I used to be thanks to the nurse who took my blood out, he's definitely talented in my book! I would recommend everyone to check it out. It wasn't expensive at all, even if it was, it wouldn't matter because their staff is great! They get an A+!

Finally Football

I had the opportunity to attend the Texas State football game on Parent Weekend. For me football has always been something that is fun to watch and play. I was unfortunate to attend a high school that didn’t have a football program. Many of my friends and I would travel and attend other local schools games, but it just wasn’t the same as supporting your hometown team. For the first time I was able to be a part of my own school’s game. The excitement of football is like no other sport in my mind. The student section was filled with colors of maroon and gold, and many yelling fans full of spirit. Not only did my high school lack in sport choices but being spirited. With only 125 students in my high school we were very limited on things that could be done during games and sporting events. Texas State is the total opposite. I loved the feeling of being surrounded by all the spirited students in the stands. There are so many opportunities here at Texas State to show your spirit and get involved. We as students should feel blessed to go to such a great school with many options to help us succeed and be prepared for our future.

Austen's Convocation Pics

Sorry I'm uploading these pictures seperate from my paragraph. I was having troubles at the beginning.

Hit the Spot at the Coffee Pot

College is a time when young adults are very, needy whether it be gas money, new clothes, a laptop, or even a digital camera to capture all the crazy moments on campus. I, on the other hand, have been very needy of coffee this semester. The Coffee Pot downtown San Marcos was at my rescue for all the long days in class, late night study sessions with classmates and the early mornings when I needed a cup to wake me up for an important speech or presentation. Not only was coffee a need, but a place to relax and surf the internet with no distractions. The Coffee Pot was just that. With great service and awesome hours you always knew the Coffee Pot would be there with open doors and ready to serve. I would recommend the Coffee Pot to anyone. Try the Heavenly Scent and Sugar Daddy- those were my favorite flavors.

CONVOCATION

As a freshman, I attended the Texas State new Student convocation in order to finish out my paws preview orientation requirements. This experience gave me one of the greatest feelings- to walk across campus and enter Strahan Coliseum to see thousands of other “soon to be” bobcats, ready and waiting for the exciting unknown. There were many guest speakers including Lyndon Nugent, Bret Baker, Denise M. Trauth, all wishing us the best of luck and letting everyone know that there are many opportunities provided for us at Texas State. The closing of the ceremony consisted of the Bobcat Band playing fight songs and the cheerleaders pumping up the students with spirited chants and cheers. It was an awesome event to be a part of with the class of 2012. Once the convocation was over, a festival of foods, games, and music was provided in Sewell Park for all students.

This is so embarrasing!

During high school I had a lot of school spirit because I was a part of the spirit. I was on the dance team most of my high school career and I learned to be spirited even when I didn’t believe in it. I heard about all the traditions of Texas State such as the star on top of Jackson Hall which glows when a victory is announced. Well, I decided to participate in a tradition which was the rubbing of the Stallions in the quad for good luck. I felt kind of weird standing in front of the statue before my last Mass Communications test scheduled for the following morning at eight o’clock. All I thought was “oh my god this is weird, I hope no one sees me!” I had no idea where this idea had came from I just heard about it through our orientation. While rubbing the Stallions I couldn’t help but to laugh in embarrassment as my face turned pink and I covered me eyes. I was saying to my roommate which I dragged with me, “I’m totally violating this statue.” I also thought about all the other students who had rubbed the figure in despair hoping the saying was true. I wondered how far back this saying actually went, how many students like myself had done the same. It gave me some sense of accomplishment and history as I thought how many other students had rubbed the statue. I thought about where they might of came from and who they were. College has been a eye opening experience thus far because it refreshing to be around people of all kinds. It’s interesting to find people with the same interest and the same ideas because I finally feel like I’m not the only one that feels a certain way about a topic. So rubbing the Stallions didn’t give me my 86 on my test because I studied for that but it did give me something different, I feeling of belonging to a community of tradition.

orginality beats franchises any day!

Living in a somewhat big city you tent to get use to gray and monotonous aspects of that city. Coming from Austin, San Marcos was a shock to me. Everything is very local here where as in Austin local things are hard to find. I was worried about being homesick and not being able to cope with unfamiliarly. As I finally started to navigate San Marcos I found things that were relatively close to home such as Garcia’s which to me is a much smaller Pappasitos, my favorite Mexican restaurant. In Austin since sometimes originals are hard I always found myself hitting the franchises, one of my favorite’s being Chili’s. I had recently stopped going to Chili’s because I had bad experiences my last few visits in Austin. After experiencing San Marcos’ local scene I decided to try Chili’s. Busy as I expected, Saturday night at Chili’s started no different than it had any other time. One difference I did notice was the staff was a lot more attentive and genuine; many of them were students from Texas State. Aside from the service, the food tasted as if I’d never been to a Chili’s in my life. I ordered my usual, I’m not sure of the correct name but it’s penne pasta in alfredo sauce with shrimp. I usually order three extra shrimp and heavy alfredo. I had no complaint. Since then I’ve been to this particular Chili’s about 6 times. It’s better than any Chili’s in Austin and trust me I have enough experience to compare. So now with this experience I was say smaller towns have something big cities don’t, originality.

On the 6th of November I decided to go to a play called The Dead Presidents' Club. To be completely honest, my friend had to literally drag me out of my room just to get me to go. I did not think it would be interesting at all. I complained the whole way there and told her that I would continue to complain throughout the whole play. So...I was wrong! I absolutely loved it! I'm not a big fan of plays (which is pretty obvious now), so for me to like it that much must mean that it was awesome. Of course, me being the stubborn person that I am, I tried to hide the fact that I was having so much fun, but my friend saw right through me!

So I pretty much fell in love with the TX State art gallery. Art was always my favorite subject in high school (besides psychology) and not just because it was easy. The first time I went to the gallery was for a theater arts critique, and I was amazed at what I saw. I've never seen such creative artwork in my life. There's one person in particular whose work I love the most...and that's John Bailly. His paintings are sometimes chaotic and hard to understand his purpose, but maybe that's why I like them so much.

Dicks

Recently three of my friends and I decided to go out to the Riverwalk in San Antonio. It was a very pleasant night there was a slight breeze and the temperature was in the upper 50's for the most part. After walking around the Riverwalk, going into stupid shop after stupid shop, and getting kicked out of the Hyatt, we decided that we were hungry and we needed to eat. We started and the girls saw the name of this restaurant and their eyes lit up. They said that we had to eat at this place. I finally saw the name of the restaurant and I called them a few vulgar words for wanting to eat at this place just because of the name of this place. This place is Dicks and it turned out to be the most legitimate restaurant in the world. But, we were all from Houston and we had never heard of this place so were in for quite the surprise. We walk in expecting someone to be there to seat us and nobody was there. Finally some fat guy walks up and tells to go find a seat. I was shocked! I did not know why he was being so rude. Anyway, we go find a seat and ten minutes our waiter shows up. Being the jacka$$ that I am somtimes I told him it was about that he showed up. Wrong thing to say. He just walks off. These older drunk guys at the table next to us explain to my friends and I the reason that this restaurant is called Dicks. The reason it is called Dicks is because all of the people that work there are supposed to be "dicks" to their customers. After he told me this I went from thinking this is the worst restaurant ever to this is the greatest place in the world. Not only can the employees be jerks but I can say whatever I want to my waiter. This place is awesome. As for the food it's good not great it's not worth the price but the atmosphere is unbeatable. I would definitely recommend Dicks as a place to go eat and be an a$$hole. If anybody wants to go to Dicks tell me because I would love to go back.

Native American Month

November was Native American Month and Texas State had the opportunity of hosting a special ceremony for the event. Outside LBJ, in the area right outside of the Starbucks, people were dressed up in elaborate costumes and head pieces. It was really fun and interesting to watch. They were dressed exactly as if you had invisioned the Indians 100 years ago. Two men played the drums while a group of people, including the audience, danced around in a circle to the music. An older man also told a few stories that had been passed down from tribe to tribe and all the stories had some sort of moral meaning or important message. Stands or booths were also set up around LBJ that sold Indian jewlery and many other things. It was interesting to watch. I got to see a very different culture and learn about the Native Americans. Coming to college has definitely opened my eyes to the many different people here.

Palmer's Restaurant

I ate at Palmer's Restaurant about a month ago with my boyfriend but it wasn't what I thought it would be. I had heard great reviews online about the bar and grill which is why we decided to go, but maybe we went on the wrong night because the service was terrible. The food was good and so was the setting.

Palmer's is really convenient and easy to find since it's on Moore street and on the corner of Hutchinson. I live in Blanco Hall so it's right down the road. The restaurant itself is really nice and not too fancy, but good for a first date or something along those lines. You can either sit inside where the bar is or outside in the courtyard, which is where we ate. It was at night when we ate, but it was still really pretty and there were lit candles on each table, so it had a clam, relaxing vibe. There was a fountain in the middle of the courtyard and tables placed around the fountain. The setting was really peaceful.

If you're looking for something simple, this is not the place to go. The menu consists of Italian dishes, including pastas and they also serve seafood, chicken, and soups and salads. I had the chicken strips (which were really an appetizer) and it came with sweet potato fries. I didnt so much enjoy the fries. Not normal. My boyfriend had the chicken palmer which he liked. The food was good and they have alot of choices. But I really didn't like the sweet potato fries.

Everything was good, but the service was horrible. It was a Wednesday night that we went, and a college age boy was our waiter. It took him 15 minutes after we sat down for him to take our drink order and another 20 after that to take our food order. We never got refills, we had to go inside to the bar to ask for another drink, and while we were waiting for our waiter to pick up our dirty plates, we was sitting with a group of friends that had come to eat. I was so angry at that point. Plus, after asking several times for ketchup, we still didn't get any. Maybe we caught them on a bad night.

I liked the atmosphere of Palmer's and the food was good (minus the fries), but the service could have been better.

Tradition: The Fighting Stallions

The Fighting Stallions, located right outside of Derrick Hall, is a TX State Tradition and a landmark on campus that almost everyone sees daily if he or she passes through the Quad. I first remember seeing the Stallions about two years ago when I came with my sister, who graduated SWT, and we toured the campus together. I didn't know the significance of the statue back then, but I do now. The Fighting Stallions is a designated free speech area, which means anyone has the right to speak out about anything he or she desires. The first time I saw someone speaking out was the outrageous Pastor I think everyone has seen. It was the first month of school. Im not sure what his name is, but he generated alot of reactions from the students. He was pretty radical in his ideas and offended some people. One girl even slapped him. I thought it was hilarious.Another crazy tradition that some students have heard about is the tradition of rubbing the stallion's "testicles" to get a good grade on a test. lol. That's pretty outrageous. At student orientation, the OL told us that she knew about the tradition but hasn't seen anyone actually do it. Neither have I. I think it would be pretty funny to see it though. I see the statue everyday since I have a class in the quad everyday. There are usually people sitting around the statue working on homework, talking to friends, or studying. It remains to be a great part of Texas State and a Tradition.

Barack and Roll

Due to absurd scheduling conflicts and unforeseen diseases, I had a hectic semester that did not allow me the opportunity to attend a Common Experience Event. However, last semester, when I was but a senior in high school visiting my brother in San Marcos, I was lucky enough to be witness to Barack Obama's speech in Sewell Park. This was in late February, in preparation for the Democratic caucus against Hillary Clinton. Despite pronouncing San Marcos incorrectly, it became abundantly clear to all present that he was to be the next President. On the right is the only photograph I could find from it. As best as I can remember, I was in the row behind that goofy guy with his hands up. Obama's charisma and drive stood out immensely, and all but solidified my choice this November for President.

Good Luck

When I first came to school here, and was not as down with the whole college studying process, I did horribly on my first communications test. I mean very horribly. So when the next exam came around, I decided to try something new that I had heard led to good results. At the west end of the quad, towards Alkek, there is a statue of two fighting stallions. Keeping with the tradition, apparently rubbing on the metal nether-regions of the horse leads to good grades. I received an A on my exam I took that day in communications. No joke. I went from a 56 to a 94. What else but the magnificence of a gigantic sculpted horse's privates could get me that much of a boost? While there was no camera around to chronicle this event, I feel that was a good decision, considering the embarrassing nature of the tradition. I instead put a photo I found of the statue. I haven't done it since, but I am saving up for finals, and hopefully it will work as well as before.

House of Blue Leaves

Recently I went to see the Texas State Theatre Production of "The House of Blue Leaves," in which my brother and a few friends had roles. The play was put on in the University Performing Arts Center, due to the renovations being done in the Theatre Building in preparation for the American College Theatre Festival. It takes place in 1965, right in the middle of arguably the most tumultuous decade of the century, on a day in which the Pope is coming to town. The cast of New Yorkers that the play is centered around contains Artie Shaugnessy, the father figure songwriter who is in his own words, "too old to be a young talent," his wife, the literally demented Bananas, his girlfriend, the fame-crazed Bunny Flingus, and his son Ronnie, an Army Private who went AWOL in order to build a bomb to blow up the Pope. All in all, it was a very good play, and music was done especially well. Michael Amendola as Artie was very good, along with Jack DiBlasi as Ronnie. Ashley Rhodes stole the show, however, in her lovable translation of Bananas. The next show to be put up by the Theatre Department is Shakespeare's tragedy "Macbeth," this coming spring.

Basketball

The men's basketball team had their first home game in Strahan Coliseum  trouncing their opponents.  The game is two 20 minute halves with a shot clock.  At half time the Drumline from the Bobcat Marching Band took the court to entertain the audience with their sweet beats.  The team has support from "The Loud Crowd", the cheerleaders, the basketball band, TSU fans, Boco and their many sponsors.  The men's and women's teams are a force to be reckoned with, so if you haven't yet, go check them out!

Concho Green

I live in Lantana Hall, which is located in "the valley".  When I first arrived at Texas State, the view from my window was pretty shabby.  Dirt, rocks, construction workers and their vehicles crowed the ground below.  I would wake up at seven every morning to the lovely clanking, crashing, and bellowing of the machines at work.  Eventually, some plants arrived.  Unfortunately, these plants remained bound and off to the side for a couple of weeks.  Finally the sod was laid, trees were planted, and the view was transformed.  My roommate and I couldn't be more excited about the new lawn, but it remained closed off for another two weeks.  The day the fencing was removed, I woke up to the sounds of an ecstatic student flying over the fresh grass.  Needless to say, the opening granted the same reaction from students all over campus, and the Concho Green has become a frisbee, tanning, and lounging destination for all those who venture down to the valley.

Pow Wow

In tribute of Native American History Month, Texas State hosted a Pow Wow in the LBJ amphitheater.  The event was complete with flute playing, dancing, storytelling, singing and bread.  There were several participants dressed in traditional clothing which added to the experience.  

Sam Houston State Football Game

This fall, the Texas State Bobcat football team played a tough season.  Towards the end,  it was predicted that the boys would not be advancing to the playoffs, though a twist of fate changed the outcome.  One team that had qualified to advance had recently changed to division one which prevented them from competing in the 2008 playoffs.  The Bobcats were then faced with the challenge of Sam Houston State University, their last in-season game.  The winner of this game would advance to their first playoff round in Montana.  The Bobcats and Bearkats battled it out the entire game.  At the end of the fourth quarter the score was tied.  The teams took it into overtime, and the Bobcats pulled out a victory!  Texas State was to be competing in the playoffs!  The boys traveled to Montana over the Thanksgiving holiday for their chance to become conference champions.  Although they didn't win the Montana game, the team showed a lot of heart this season and deserve recognition for all of their hard work.  Go Bobcats all the way!

SACA: 12 Angry Men

On November 17th, I attended a Common Experience event at the LBJ Student Center.  SACA was hosting the event and they were featuring the movie "12 Angry Men." 

The film was about a group of men part of a jury deciding whether or not the young boy, who has supposedly killed his father, is innocent or not.  The jury is told that if the boy is found guilty, he would be given a death sentence--the electric chair.  At the start of the jury's meeting, it was eleven men voting guilty and only one saying not guilty.  Throughout the whole movie, the one guy who said not guilty tried to convince the other jurors to look at a different perspective and that maybe there's actually more to the case that they're not clearly seeing.  Little by little, each juror looked at the situation in a different point of view and changed their vote to "not guilty."  Finally, after many hours and many arguments, the 11-1 jury, voting not guilty, was able to change the mindset of the last guy.

Overall, the movie had a good lesson and meaning towards it.  It showed that even though something may seem so obvious, there's actually more behind the situation.   All in all, it was an enjoyable film that anyone would be able to learn something from.

Restaurant Review- Garcia's

I looooove Garcia's Mexican Food Restaurant!! They serve tex-mex. It has good food for cheap prices, which is really good for poor college kids! :) It's located on South LBJ Drive, across the street from Cheatham Street Warehouse. It is a very casual place, and the service has been good every time I've been there. I first heard about it from some of the RA's in my dorm and then several people at work told me about it as well...so my roommate and I decided to check it out! We go there quite often now! So if you ever crave mexican food go try it!

Texas State Homecoming- Common Experience

On October 18, I went to the Texas State homecoming game with my dad and friend Tara. It was my first homecoming game here at Texas State. They played Central Arkansas. I thought it was really cool how the stands were filled with fans. It was EXTREMELY hot that day though. We thought we were going to roast!! Sadly, Texas State lost 31-24. It was a pretty close game through about the first half though. That weekend was the first weekend my dad had come to visit since he first dropped me off at school.

Texas State Hand Sign Tradition

The Texas state hand sign involves taking your left arm at a 45 degree angle. Then you make the shape of Texas with your hand by folding over you little finger and ring fingers together on your palm . Second you put your middle and index finger up straight in the air together and last but not least you stick your thumb out and viola ! The shape of Texas on your hand . I think this is a pretty cool sign because , for one it actually looks like the shape of Texas and two its better than a stupid gun .