Overview
The University of Rhode Island, located in the rural town of South Kingston, is the ideal school for anyone looking for a great education and a quick walk to the beach. For the most part, students who attend URI are from the Northeast, New York (particularly Long Island), and New Jersey, but every now and then someone from the West Coast will walk across campus. The CELS (College of Environmental Life Sciences), College of Pharmacy, and College of Business Administration are the three strongest programs offered at URI. URI has gone through serious changes in the past several years. Renovated academic buildings, highlighted by a brand new Center for Biotechnology and Life Sciences, along with new and renovated dormitories display the consistent growth that URI is experiencing. At the top of campus, just north of the quadrangle, one will find The Emporium, which is home to several bookstores, shops, and eateries. It is almost impossible to overlook International Pocket’s, one of the most popular restaurants on campus that boasts, “The Sexiest, Healthiest Food on Campus.”
Social Scene
Dorm life is fantastic at URI; it offers the opportunity for students to find people with similar interests and allows students to become self-sufficient. A strong Division I sports program unites students and the surrounding community, as thousands pile into the Ryan Center for basketball games. “Rhody, Rhody, Rhody… Rams, Rams Rams!!” Freshmen find themselves drawn to Greek life, as it dominates the social scene on campus. One of URI’s flagship events is something called Oozeball. Every spring, hundreds of students gather around gigantic mud pits and play competitive games of volleyball. Disclaimer: You will get dirty!
Location
After freshman year, the majority of students pair up with friends and decide to move off campus, or “down the line.” There are hundreds of houses rented out by students each year at a reduced rate from summer rentals. The town of Narragansett is home to some popular spots for students to live: Bonnet Shores, Eastward Look, and Point Judith. Living off campus has its perks. Narragansett and Scarborough beach are very close by and frequented by students in the early and late school months. On any given day, many URI students will break out their wetsuits and go surfing. Other points of interest include, Newport, Ocean Drive, the Blackpoint Cliffs, Point Judith, and the Old Mountain Lanes. For those in need of a few extra bucks, there are hundreds of places to work “down the line,” as it is a huge commercial district.
“While attending URI I was able to find friends who I will be close to for the rest of my life. In addition, URI provided me a superior education that will support me any where I go.” -Tyler Zbinden – URI Class of 2007
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Private vs. Public Colleges
Students and their families struggle every year with the rising cost of college education. Many people ask themselves if it’s worth paying the high cost of private college tuition or if they should attend a public university instead. When looking for answers, you should compare the private and public schools that you are thinking of attending. Some questions to think about: Will I get a better education at the private school? Will the professors in my major of study be more distinguished? Will it be worth going into such great debt to earn this degree? Finding the answers to these questions will help you decide what is right for you.
While many schools (private and public) help students with financial aid, it is no secret that attending a public university in your state will give you many benefits including a break on tuition cost. It’s also a general belief that in-state students are more easily admitted to their state college, than out of state students.
Private colleges rely on tuition, endowment, and donations. They are usually more expensive than public colleges; however, they tend to offer better financial aid packages than public colleges offer.
During the college search, it may be best to focus on general things such as location, size, and extracurricular activities. Engage in the public vs. private debate only after you have narrowed down your choices. Although cost is an important factor in the college decision process, it may be best to look closely at what each college has to offer before making a decision based on the price tag. After investigation, you may find that the perfect university for you is worth the steep price.
While many schools (private and public) help students with financial aid, it is no secret that attending a public university in your state will give you many benefits including a break on tuition cost. It’s also a general belief that in-state students are more easily admitted to their state college, than out of state students.
Private colleges rely on tuition, endowment, and donations. They are usually more expensive than public colleges; however, they tend to offer better financial aid packages than public colleges offer.
During the college search, it may be best to focus on general things such as location, size, and extracurricular activities. Engage in the public vs. private debate only after you have narrowed down your choices. Although cost is an important factor in the college decision process, it may be best to look closely at what each college has to offer before making a decision based on the price tag. After investigation, you may find that the perfect university for you is worth the steep price.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
College of the Week: Stonehill College
Stonehill College is a private, Roman Catholic school located in the suburban town of Easton, Massachusetts. With approximately 2,470 students, Stonehill is closer to the size of a high school than the size of a university. However, many students have found that the small size gives the college a more welcoming and friendly atmosphere. When walking around campus, the majority of students say hi as they walk by one another.
Stonehill is not very diverse; the typical student is white, “preppy”, and comes from a middle class family in New England. Students generally wear Polo, Lacoste, Abercrombie and Fitch, and carry Vera Bradley bags. If you are looking for a “typical college campus” atmosphere, then Stonehill is for you. The small-town life makes students feel immediately at home. For students who have a car on campus, the possibilities are endless. Easton has plenty of restaurants and shops, and is surrounded by other towns that have the same amenities.
During the week most students spend their time studying, since this college is very challenging academically. However, on weekends students know how to let loose. Students mostly party in dorms, since upperclassmen are permitted to live in “wet” dorms that allow students over twenty-one to drink. There are the occasional off campus parties; however, most students live on campus because real estate is expensive in Easton. Students with cars sometimes travel to local bars and pubs, or make a weekend trip into Boston. Students also attend various mixers (dances) throughout the year that the college hosts in the gymnasium. Students complain that the alcohol policy at Stonehill is too strict, though it is possible to learn ways around it.
The dorm rooms are exceptionally large when compared to other school’s dorm rooms. A points system is used to determine housing placement. Students receive points for being active—participating in sports, clubs, attending lectures, etc. The more involved a student is, the better housing they will get. Beware! You can also lose points for misbehavior!
There is no Greek life at Stonehill, but students are united by their passion for school athletics. Football and hockey games draw decent crowds (although students need a car to attend home hockey games). Intramural sports are also popular at Stonehill.
In a nutshell, Stonehill College is a small school that offers personal attention from professors, a challenging course load, and a friendly student body.
Stonehill is not very diverse; the typical student is white, “preppy”, and comes from a middle class family in New England. Students generally wear Polo, Lacoste, Abercrombie and Fitch, and carry Vera Bradley bags. If you are looking for a “typical college campus” atmosphere, then Stonehill is for you. The small-town life makes students feel immediately at home. For students who have a car on campus, the possibilities are endless. Easton has plenty of restaurants and shops, and is surrounded by other towns that have the same amenities.
During the week most students spend their time studying, since this college is very challenging academically. However, on weekends students know how to let loose. Students mostly party in dorms, since upperclassmen are permitted to live in “wet” dorms that allow students over twenty-one to drink. There are the occasional off campus parties; however, most students live on campus because real estate is expensive in Easton. Students with cars sometimes travel to local bars and pubs, or make a weekend trip into Boston. Students also attend various mixers (dances) throughout the year that the college hosts in the gymnasium. Students complain that the alcohol policy at Stonehill is too strict, though it is possible to learn ways around it.
The dorm rooms are exceptionally large when compared to other school’s dorm rooms. A points system is used to determine housing placement. Students receive points for being active—participating in sports, clubs, attending lectures, etc. The more involved a student is, the better housing they will get. Beware! You can also lose points for misbehavior!
There is no Greek life at Stonehill, but students are united by their passion for school athletics. Football and hockey games draw decent crowds (although students need a car to attend home hockey games). Intramural sports are also popular at Stonehill.
In a nutshell, Stonehill College is a small school that offers personal attention from professors, a challenging course load, and a friendly student body.
ADHD
One of the most widespread medical issues, that affects over two million children nationwide, is popularly known as ADHD. Until recently, there was a discrepancy between ADD and ADHD, but it is now politically correct to say ADHD. Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder can be broken down into three sub-categories: predominantly hyperactive-impulse, predominantly inattentive, and combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive. Hyperactive-impulsive is loosely defined as an inability to stand still, compared to a predominantly inattentive child who will day dream for long periods of time. The third category, hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive, is for a child who embodies both of these symptoms.
Although ADHD is not classified as a learning disability, the disorder can have severe effects on a child’s performance in the classroom. Common symptoms of Attention Deficit (Hyperactive) Disorder are a lack of focus, impulsive behavior, and being hyperactive. When these three symptoms are displayed in the classroom, it is the recipe for bad behavior and inattention, consequently resulting in poor performance. These disorders can also have a negative impact on a child's in-home behavior and his/her social relationships, both in and out of school. When finding treatment for ADHD, one must consider medicinal treatment along with behavioral therapy. Common medicines such as Ritalin and Adderall have proven to be very successful with very little side effects.
These medicines are stimulants that react with chemicals in a person’s brain, allowing the person to focus his/her energy on specific tasks (opposed to being “scatter brained” and focusing on everything). Along with medication, pairing your child with the appropriate therapist can have a huge impact on your child. It is very important for your child to understand the obstacles that he/she will face as he/she grows older, and how to combat these obstacles. If the proper steps are taken, ADHD can be controlled, and your child can prosper through their academics.
Screening is available though JBG Educational Group by Dr. Jamie Rodriguez. All results are kept confidential.
Although ADHD is not classified as a learning disability, the disorder can have severe effects on a child’s performance in the classroom. Common symptoms of Attention Deficit (Hyperactive) Disorder are a lack of focus, impulsive behavior, and being hyperactive. When these three symptoms are displayed in the classroom, it is the recipe for bad behavior and inattention, consequently resulting in poor performance. These disorders can also have a negative impact on a child's in-home behavior and his/her social relationships, both in and out of school. When finding treatment for ADHD, one must consider medicinal treatment along with behavioral therapy. Common medicines such as Ritalin and Adderall have proven to be very successful with very little side effects.
These medicines are stimulants that react with chemicals in a person’s brain, allowing the person to focus his/her energy on specific tasks (opposed to being “scatter brained” and focusing on everything). Along with medication, pairing your child with the appropriate therapist can have a huge impact on your child. It is very important for your child to understand the obstacles that he/she will face as he/she grows older, and how to combat these obstacles. If the proper steps are taken, ADHD can be controlled, and your child can prosper through their academics.
Screening is available though JBG Educational Group by Dr. Jamie Rodriguez. All results are kept confidential.
Greek Life on College Campuses
Greek organizations have been around since the 1770s. They are usually single-sex groups of which members are active during their undergraduate years and continue to be members throughout their lives. There are also organizations that are historically black, Latino, Asian, and multicultural—some of which may include both sexes. Certain Greek organizations are established for specific religious or ethnic groups such as Alpha Chi Rho (founded as a Christian group) and Zeta Beta Tau (a historically Jewish fraternity).
The recruitment process varies from university to university. Organizations governed by the National Panhellenic Conference or the North-American Interfraternity Conference begin the process with “rush week”. Rush consists of events and meetings where students can visit the chapter house and meet the members. At rush, new members are asked if they are a legacy. A "Legacy" is somebody whose family member (mother, father, brother, sister) was a member of the organization. Some chapters automatically accept legacies, but not everyone still honors the legacy system. At the end of rush week, new recruits are given “bids,” which are invitations to join a chapter. Students choose one bid to accept and that choice marks the beginning of the pledging process. Pledging does vary, but most Greek organizations are trying to get rid of the negative connotation people have about the process. Hazing is taken much more seriously than it has been in the past, and students face harsh punishments for breaking hazing policies.
A Greek organization that is located on one campus is considered “local”, while an organization that is “national” has many chapters all across the nation. The central offices of the organizations are called “Nationals” and can standardize rules and regulations for their chapters. Generally, they delegate the rules to the executive officers of each chapter house. The executive officers include a President, Vice President, Treasurer, etc.; students that were elected by their peers within the organization hold these offices.
On many college campuses, Greek organizations live together in a chapter house. Organizations with national presence will have rules set in place that are generally enforced by a “house mom or house dad” which the national offices hire and pay. Such rules could include the prohibition of alcohol and visitor restrictions. These chapter houses are basically dorms for the members of the organizations. They can sometimes include dining facilities for the members.
Most Fraternities and Sororities maintain traditions that began when they were founded: ceremonies, initiations, songs, handshakes, mottos, and passwords. Most groups swear all members to secrecy during initiation, and these rituals are kept undisclosed. Fraternities and Sororities also have distinct motifs to represent themselves such as colors, flags, flowers, pins, crests, seals, and even mascots.
Philanthropy is a huge part of Greek life. Each organization supports a cause, and many have long-term relationships with large national charities. For example, Chi Omega supports the Make-A-Wish foundation, while Delta Delta Delta is partnered with St. Jude Children's Hospital.
There are common controversies about Greek life, including the issues of hazing, alcohol abuse, and exclusion. While the National Panhellenic Conference, the North-American Interfraternity Conference, and various universities have strict, no-hazing policies, most incidents go unreported because Greek life organizations are secretive in nature. There are many benefits to going Greek; joining an organization can provide networking and social connections for members throughout their entire lives. Many members remain involved in Greek life years after they have completed college; some even take positions with the national offices of their chapter.
Some interesting facts about frats and sororities:
-25 US Presidents have belonged to Greek organizations
-85% of the Fortune 500 executives are members of Greek organizations
The recruitment process varies from university to university. Organizations governed by the National Panhellenic Conference or the North-American Interfraternity Conference begin the process with “rush week”. Rush consists of events and meetings where students can visit the chapter house and meet the members. At rush, new members are asked if they are a legacy. A "Legacy" is somebody whose family member (mother, father, brother, sister) was a member of the organization. Some chapters automatically accept legacies, but not everyone still honors the legacy system. At the end of rush week, new recruits are given “bids,” which are invitations to join a chapter. Students choose one bid to accept and that choice marks the beginning of the pledging process. Pledging does vary, but most Greek organizations are trying to get rid of the negative connotation people have about the process. Hazing is taken much more seriously than it has been in the past, and students face harsh punishments for breaking hazing policies.
A Greek organization that is located on one campus is considered “local”, while an organization that is “national” has many chapters all across the nation. The central offices of the organizations are called “Nationals” and can standardize rules and regulations for their chapters. Generally, they delegate the rules to the executive officers of each chapter house. The executive officers include a President, Vice President, Treasurer, etc.; students that were elected by their peers within the organization hold these offices.
On many college campuses, Greek organizations live together in a chapter house. Organizations with national presence will have rules set in place that are generally enforced by a “house mom or house dad” which the national offices hire and pay. Such rules could include the prohibition of alcohol and visitor restrictions. These chapter houses are basically dorms for the members of the organizations. They can sometimes include dining facilities for the members.
Most Fraternities and Sororities maintain traditions that began when they were founded: ceremonies, initiations, songs, handshakes, mottos, and passwords. Most groups swear all members to secrecy during initiation, and these rituals are kept undisclosed. Fraternities and Sororities also have distinct motifs to represent themselves such as colors, flags, flowers, pins, crests, seals, and even mascots.
Philanthropy is a huge part of Greek life. Each organization supports a cause, and many have long-term relationships with large national charities. For example, Chi Omega supports the Make-A-Wish foundation, while Delta Delta Delta is partnered with St. Jude Children's Hospital.
There are common controversies about Greek life, including the issues of hazing, alcohol abuse, and exclusion. While the National Panhellenic Conference, the North-American Interfraternity Conference, and various universities have strict, no-hazing policies, most incidents go unreported because Greek life organizations are secretive in nature. There are many benefits to going Greek; joining an organization can provide networking and social connections for members throughout their entire lives. Many members remain involved in Greek life years after they have completed college; some even take positions with the national offices of their chapter.
Some interesting facts about frats and sororities:
-25 US Presidents have belonged to Greek organizations
-85% of the Fortune 500 executives are members of Greek organizations
College of the Week: UMASS Amherst
Nestled in the foothills of the Pioneer Valley, The University of Massachusetts is one of the fastest growing public schools in the Northeast. The 1,450-acre campus can be daunting at times, but with just a few steps off campus, one is surrounded with the small town of Amherst, Massachusetts. Right around the corner, students will find Main Street, which is filled with independently owned restaurants, shops, and hang out spots. There is always something to do, whether on campus, or in downtown Amherst. With 27,000 undergraduate and graduate students who attend the University of Massachusetts, it is easy to feel like a number, lost in an abyss of people. But at UMass, upperclassmen and faculty do a great job of helping you gain an identity. There are many options for students who want to branch out and find their niche. UMass has a competitive, division I athletic program that provides its athletes with state of the art facilities. If you are not ready to compete at the Division I level, there are plenty of intramural, club, and recreational sports to participate in. A common scene on a Friday evening is six on six games of volleyball right in the middle of campus. There are also over 200-registered student organizations (RSOs), not including Greek Life, that are available to whoever shows up with an idea and a smile.
From the Stockbridge School of Agriculture to the Isenberg School of Management, the University of Massachusetts offers limitless opportunities for its students. Like any college or university, a student gets back what they put in. For those students looking to be challenged a bit more, the Commonwealth Honors College provides students with an outstanding academic experience. Likewise, if you want a change of scenery, UMass allows you to take any class at any school in the Five College Interchange program. Students can expand their horizons and become a part of the Smith College, Amherst College, Mount Holyoke, or Hampshire College community. Needless to say, the University provides its students with every advantage available as they pursue one of UMass’s 88 bachelor’s degrees.
Masked by the reputation of being exclusively a party school, UMass has been working hard to improve its public image. Although it is true that some students spend most weekends partying around Amherst, the choice to party is left up to the individual. On the contrary, the University's Engineering and Public Health colleges, to name a couple, are world-renowned. There are also endless possibilities for weekend fun outside of the party scene. Located a few miles down the road, the charming town of Northampton is a great place to escape the daily rigors that come with being a college student. With hundreds of restaurants, concert halls, bars, and shops around Northampton, home to Smith College, it is a little slice of heaven for those who want a nice dose of culture. Amherst and its surrounding towns are great for biking, hiking, camping, and many other outdoor activities. For the beginner or expert golfer, Cherry Hill golf course is a pleasant, affordable way to spend an afternoon. Right down the road you can find the world famous Eric Carl Museum, Amherst College’s Museum of Natural History, and Smith College's Museum of Art.
The University of Massachusetts is an eclectic experience. Students live and study in what feels like an academic city, but are nurtured within their programs to explore personal niches. The surrounding small-town communities offer something for everyone: music lovers, foodies, shoppers, and outdoor enthusiasts. UMass is a place worth visiting, and certainly a great place to explore yourself.
From the Stockbridge School of Agriculture to the Isenberg School of Management, the University of Massachusetts offers limitless opportunities for its students. Like any college or university, a student gets back what they put in. For those students looking to be challenged a bit more, the Commonwealth Honors College provides students with an outstanding academic experience. Likewise, if you want a change of scenery, UMass allows you to take any class at any school in the Five College Interchange program. Students can expand their horizons and become a part of the Smith College, Amherst College, Mount Holyoke, or Hampshire College community. Needless to say, the University provides its students with every advantage available as they pursue one of UMass’s 88 bachelor’s degrees.
Masked by the reputation of being exclusively a party school, UMass has been working hard to improve its public image. Although it is true that some students spend most weekends partying around Amherst, the choice to party is left up to the individual. On the contrary, the University's Engineering and Public Health colleges, to name a couple, are world-renowned. There are also endless possibilities for weekend fun outside of the party scene. Located a few miles down the road, the charming town of Northampton is a great place to escape the daily rigors that come with being a college student. With hundreds of restaurants, concert halls, bars, and shops around Northampton, home to Smith College, it is a little slice of heaven for those who want a nice dose of culture. Amherst and its surrounding towns are great for biking, hiking, camping, and many other outdoor activities. For the beginner or expert golfer, Cherry Hill golf course is a pleasant, affordable way to spend an afternoon. Right down the road you can find the world famous Eric Carl Museum, Amherst College’s Museum of Natural History, and Smith College's Museum of Art.
The University of Massachusetts is an eclectic experience. Students live and study in what feels like an academic city, but are nurtured within their programs to explore personal niches. The surrounding small-town communities offer something for everyone: music lovers, foodies, shoppers, and outdoor enthusiasts. UMass is a place worth visiting, and certainly a great place to explore yourself.
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