2008 Woodie Awards
Chanticleer staff gives dubious advice to students new and old
It's the first issue - lying to you just seems wrong...somehow
Issue date: 9/1/05 Section: Opinion
- Page 1 of 1
We at The Chanticleer thought it might be just a little too early to throw around our opinions on things here at JSU, so we thought, "Why not tell everyone our thoughts on life in general?"
So, here we are a rag-tag group of writers, giving you advice on life, love and any other thing that comes to mind.
Angela Reid: News Editor
When I was asked to provide you, our loyal reader with my words of wisdom, I immediately thought, "I've locked my keys in my car three times in one week. I'm late for everything. I can't make decisions. What kind of advice could I possibly give?"
But as I wondered and wandered, I realized that maybe some of you are just like me - the kind of person who leans over to pick up your chapstick and everything in your purse falls in the floor. Maybe some of you, the people who have trouble deciding which way to drive home, can benefit from my hard-learned lessons of life.
1. Parking really isn't that bad. You can walk. Get over it.
2. Don't try to use your JSU Student ID to buy food if you don't have money on it, especially if you don't have cash with you.
3. Don't take a 300 level elective for "fun" your freshman year.
4. Don't wear sandals in below freezing temperatures.
5. Easy teachers are not always the best teachers.
6. Take a jacket everywhere.
7. Don't leave the top down in your Jeep Wrangler if a hurricane is coming.
8. Make friends, you will need them - especially when that hurricane on the way.
And above all... if you ever work for the Chanticleer make sure you get a lot of sleep Monday night and have afternoon classes on Wednesday.
Have a great year.
Jeff Pruitt: Features Editor
When asked to write this column by my esteemed editor-in-chief, I felt a slight rumble slowly rise in my stomach and up into my chest causing me to drop to my knees and scream out in pain. Turns out it was only gas.
Still, the idea of writing this editorial is a little unnerving to me. Not so much the words of welcome, but the thought of having to give advice.
First of all, I could be a complete idiot for all you know. Besides that, you don't need my advice or anyone else's advice. Listen to yourself. You're right most of the time. For those times when you're not right, admit it and move on. Everything else will fall into place...Maybe.
That being said, us good folks here at The Chanticleer want to welcome you back to school. We hope you enjoy what we have to offer this year. If you do, let us know. If you don't, then definitely let us know.
Jaclyn Cosper: Copy Editor
For all you students, new and old, a good idea is to cut class only when you have to. It never fails that on the day you cut, you miss something that is very crucial that can affect your grade.
So if you have to miss, make sure it is for a good reason. Trust me, it will save many a headache.
David Howton: News Reporter
After many, many years here at campus, I am slowly beginning to consider myself the Van Wilder of JSU, so to you, my fellow students, my words of wisdom are... probably not what you're thinking. I wasn't allowed to go there...
My advice to the student body is don't take on more than you can handle. Challenge yourself but don't overwhelm yourself. Keep calm and realize that life isn't about being so serious all the time. You are in school to learn but you are in college to live and let live.
In 40 years you won't remember what the inside of a leaf looks like (unless you're into that kindof thing), you won't remember petty arguments or why someone talked about you in the newspaper. You'll remember trips to St. Louis for Mardi Gras, getting intoxicated going to White Castle at 3 am and seeing a lady talking to herself, then slapping herself for not listening.
You'll remember how many times you changed major because of what ends up being no particular reason at all. Enjoy your stay here at JSU and always remember, never fall in love and drop out of school. That's stupid . . . Trust me . . . I know.
James Barcus: Weather Reporter
My advice to all of the new students, including myself, is to have fun at what you're doing and learn as much as you can. This is a little something my mom shared with me a few weeks ago.
Patrick Swafford: Sports Reporter
The most important piece of advice that I can give anyone new to JSU would simply be to never assume something. Never assume that an instructor won't help you. You're not going to know unless you ask. If you have a problem or concern, ask.
Never assume that the people in charge of the student database will spell your last name correctly. While we're on that subject, never assume that any dealings with the Registrar's office will be not a hassle.
Another great piece of advice I have for any JSU student is to get involved. Join a campus organization. Go to as many events as possible.
Go to a game. In fact, go to the game tonight. These are the same guys that knocked us out of the playoffs last year. There is a reason that everyone is making a big deal about this game.
You can get into any JSU home game free with your JSU Student ID; so don't use the excuse that you were broke.
That's not just for football; it's every sport. Besides being two-time conference football champs, we also have an outstanding soccer and volleyball program.
In closing, just have fun. Dennis Miller said it best when he said, "Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong."
Jessica Summe: Feature Reporter
Those of you who know me are aware of my, um, 'blonder' moments. So when Jennifer's all, 'We're doing an advice column!', I immediately thought 'Oh crap.'
(Those of you that know me know that's a lie. I prefer much stronger language than that.)
And while I cannot give you lovely readers practical, obviously useful advice since that would make me a total hypocrite, I will list some of my more entertaining moments so you don't fall into the same pitfalls and traps that I did.
1) Do not give a bouncy ball to drunken people. While amusing, it leaves some very interesting bruises that are hard to explain away. Actually, any kind of ball (or Frisbee, Jennifer Bacchus) indoors is usually a bad idea.
2) Don't drive a Volkswagon Beetle into a ditch. The ditch will win.
3) Potatoes are not a vegetable. Just so you know.
4) Always sign your credit card receipts so your poor waitress doesn't have to follow you into the parking lot. Besides, if it's raining, you'll just have to give her another tip.
5) When your mother brings you a toaster, don't place it right beside the toaster you insisted you didn't have. She will tease you for the rest of your natural life.
Since I don't want the rest of the staff to start comparing me to that other Jessica (you know the 'dumb' one that's making tons of money), here's some real advice for your college years.
You don't need your JSU ID card the first day. Wait a week and let the line die down. Attend class on Friday. The teachers have to be there, and they'll get pissed if you're not. There is no bad parking situation. Everyone's just late at the same time. Don't be late. And while you did pay $2000 to attend class, this doesn't mean you can show up in Spongebob Squarepants PJ's and expect to be taken seriously. Have a sweatshirt and a T-shirt in your car. You'll never know if the air conditioner will like you that day. And, seriously guys, don't drink and drive. That's dumber than any blonde thing I've done.
Jennifer Bacchus: Editor-in-Chief
As always, I get the last word. Can't help it, it's my job.
I've read through the advice of my cohorts and co-workers, who also happen to be my friends and I can tell you, they make a lot of sense.
Friendships are important: how else can you make it through nights when you have to be up until 2 a.m.
Caffeine is a necessity of life: once I contemplated getting it via an IV drip.
Afternoon classes are the BOMB!: sleeping in is ALWAYS a necessity - especially after those 2 a.m. nights.
I love key rings that hook onto things: I swear, it's the only way I haven't lost my keys yet. And most people can hear me coming a mile away.
Jumpdrives will soon become jewelry: I have a turquoise blue junpdrive that I practically wear as a necklace several days a week.
Tell the housekeeping crew here at JSU how much you appreciate them EVERY chance you get - they are the only thing standing between us college kids and the sty we could be existing in.
Lastly, write to me and give me your thoughts. Being the editor comes with significant power and tons of responsibility. I am here to serve YOU, the JSU student. If you aren't ok with what you see in these papers let me know. I also love compliments, if you like what you see let me know that too.
Thank you for your attention, I hope we serve you well this year.
So, here we are a rag-tag group of writers, giving you advice on life, love and any other thing that comes to mind.
Angela Reid: News Editor
When I was asked to provide you, our loyal reader with my words of wisdom, I immediately thought, "I've locked my keys in my car three times in one week. I'm late for everything. I can't make decisions. What kind of advice could I possibly give?"
But as I wondered and wandered, I realized that maybe some of you are just like me - the kind of person who leans over to pick up your chapstick and everything in your purse falls in the floor. Maybe some of you, the people who have trouble deciding which way to drive home, can benefit from my hard-learned lessons of life.
1. Parking really isn't that bad. You can walk. Get over it.
2. Don't try to use your JSU Student ID to buy food if you don't have money on it, especially if you don't have cash with you.
3. Don't take a 300 level elective for "fun" your freshman year.
4. Don't wear sandals in below freezing temperatures.
5. Easy teachers are not always the best teachers.
6. Take a jacket everywhere.
7. Don't leave the top down in your Jeep Wrangler if a hurricane is coming.
8. Make friends, you will need them - especially when that hurricane on the way.
And above all... if you ever work for the Chanticleer make sure you get a lot of sleep Monday night and have afternoon classes on Wednesday.
Have a great year.
Jeff Pruitt: Features Editor
When asked to write this column by my esteemed editor-in-chief, I felt a slight rumble slowly rise in my stomach and up into my chest causing me to drop to my knees and scream out in pain. Turns out it was only gas.
Still, the idea of writing this editorial is a little unnerving to me. Not so much the words of welcome, but the thought of having to give advice.
First of all, I could be a complete idiot for all you know. Besides that, you don't need my advice or anyone else's advice. Listen to yourself. You're right most of the time. For those times when you're not right, admit it and move on. Everything else will fall into place...Maybe.
That being said, us good folks here at The Chanticleer want to welcome you back to school. We hope you enjoy what we have to offer this year. If you do, let us know. If you don't, then definitely let us know.
Jaclyn Cosper: Copy Editor
For all you students, new and old, a good idea is to cut class only when you have to. It never fails that on the day you cut, you miss something that is very crucial that can affect your grade.
So if you have to miss, make sure it is for a good reason. Trust me, it will save many a headache.
David Howton: News Reporter
After many, many years here at campus, I am slowly beginning to consider myself the Van Wilder of JSU, so to you, my fellow students, my words of wisdom are... probably not what you're thinking. I wasn't allowed to go there...
My advice to the student body is don't take on more than you can handle. Challenge yourself but don't overwhelm yourself. Keep calm and realize that life isn't about being so serious all the time. You are in school to learn but you are in college to live and let live.
In 40 years you won't remember what the inside of a leaf looks like (unless you're into that kindof thing), you won't remember petty arguments or why someone talked about you in the newspaper. You'll remember trips to St. Louis for Mardi Gras, getting intoxicated going to White Castle at 3 am and seeing a lady talking to herself, then slapping herself for not listening.
You'll remember how many times you changed major because of what ends up being no particular reason at all. Enjoy your stay here at JSU and always remember, never fall in love and drop out of school. That's stupid . . . Trust me . . . I know.
James Barcus: Weather Reporter
My advice to all of the new students, including myself, is to have fun at what you're doing and learn as much as you can. This is a little something my mom shared with me a few weeks ago.
Patrick Swafford: Sports Reporter
The most important piece of advice that I can give anyone new to JSU would simply be to never assume something. Never assume that an instructor won't help you. You're not going to know unless you ask. If you have a problem or concern, ask.
Never assume that the people in charge of the student database will spell your last name correctly. While we're on that subject, never assume that any dealings with the Registrar's office will be not a hassle.
Another great piece of advice I have for any JSU student is to get involved. Join a campus organization. Go to as many events as possible.
Go to a game. In fact, go to the game tonight. These are the same guys that knocked us out of the playoffs last year. There is a reason that everyone is making a big deal about this game.
You can get into any JSU home game free with your JSU Student ID; so don't use the excuse that you were broke.
That's not just for football; it's every sport. Besides being two-time conference football champs, we also have an outstanding soccer and volleyball program.
In closing, just have fun. Dennis Miller said it best when he said, "Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong."
Jessica Summe: Feature Reporter
Those of you who know me are aware of my, um, 'blonder' moments. So when Jennifer's all, 'We're doing an advice column!', I immediately thought 'Oh crap.'
(Those of you that know me know that's a lie. I prefer much stronger language than that.)
And while I cannot give you lovely readers practical, obviously useful advice since that would make me a total hypocrite, I will list some of my more entertaining moments so you don't fall into the same pitfalls and traps that I did.
1) Do not give a bouncy ball to drunken people. While amusing, it leaves some very interesting bruises that are hard to explain away. Actually, any kind of ball (or Frisbee, Jennifer Bacchus) indoors is usually a bad idea.
2) Don't drive a Volkswagon Beetle into a ditch. The ditch will win.
3) Potatoes are not a vegetable. Just so you know.
4) Always sign your credit card receipts so your poor waitress doesn't have to follow you into the parking lot. Besides, if it's raining, you'll just have to give her another tip.
5) When your mother brings you a toaster, don't place it right beside the toaster you insisted you didn't have. She will tease you for the rest of your natural life.
Since I don't want the rest of the staff to start comparing me to that other Jessica (you know the 'dumb' one that's making tons of money), here's some real advice for your college years.
You don't need your JSU ID card the first day. Wait a week and let the line die down. Attend class on Friday. The teachers have to be there, and they'll get pissed if you're not. There is no bad parking situation. Everyone's just late at the same time. Don't be late. And while you did pay $2000 to attend class, this doesn't mean you can show up in Spongebob Squarepants PJ's and expect to be taken seriously. Have a sweatshirt and a T-shirt in your car. You'll never know if the air conditioner will like you that day. And, seriously guys, don't drink and drive. That's dumber than any blonde thing I've done.
Jennifer Bacchus: Editor-in-Chief
As always, I get the last word. Can't help it, it's my job.
I've read through the advice of my cohorts and co-workers, who also happen to be my friends and I can tell you, they make a lot of sense.
Friendships are important: how else can you make it through nights when you have to be up until 2 a.m.
Caffeine is a necessity of life: once I contemplated getting it via an IV drip.
Afternoon classes are the BOMB!: sleeping in is ALWAYS a necessity - especially after those 2 a.m. nights.
I love key rings that hook onto things: I swear, it's the only way I haven't lost my keys yet. And most people can hear me coming a mile away.
Jumpdrives will soon become jewelry: I have a turquoise blue junpdrive that I practically wear as a necklace several days a week.
Tell the housekeeping crew here at JSU how much you appreciate them EVERY chance you get - they are the only thing standing between us college kids and the sty we could be existing in.
Lastly, write to me and give me your thoughts. Being the editor comes with significant power and tons of responsibility. I am here to serve YOU, the JSU student. If you aren't ok with what you see in these papers let me know. I also love compliments, if you like what you see let me know that too.
Thank you for your attention, I hope we serve you well this year.