By Mari delaGarza
Reporter for The Bridge
With a flick of the wrist, an approval code and a signature it has started again - the lure of the credit card.
While most merchants are singing Christmas carols, and loved ones' eyes light up with delight, the shopper is dreading his next credit card statement.
According to Sandi Martin, vice president of education and community relations for Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) in San Antonio, it is inevitable that people spend beyond their cash, but there are ways to manage the credit debt.
"After the holidays, when the bills start coming, focus all available money on the credit debt, tighten your belt," Martin said.
As far as charging Christmas purchases, she gave several suggestions.
Charge all the holiday spending on one card with a zero balance, and don't charge more than you can pay off in a three month period, Martin stated.
Charging on multiple cards has worse consequences than using one card.
" Co-mingling is more costly," Martin said.
This is because with several cards, "You don't know when you pay them off," she said.
Nancy Martinez, a junior Biology major, said that she has three credit cards but only uses one for gifts and another one for traveling expenses.
Paying-off the balance at the end of the month is the wisest move to make.
"If the balance is paid in full, then no interest is paid at the end of the month," she said.
Jesus Benavides, a junior Biology major, said that he has three credit cards that he applied for through the mail. He said he uses his card a lot, but he pays off the balance at the end of every month.
For those who don't know they are in trouble, Martin lists some signs to look for.
These include only making the minimum payments and making cash advances on one credit card to make other card payments, she said.
"This is a very costly loan, there is no grace period for the interest and it's unclear what they are charging you."
She also said that presents aren't the only holiday pleasures that help max-out the credit cards, but also entertaiment contributes to the Christmas expenses and should also be put on the same card as the gifts.
As far as debit cards that look and are used in place of credit cards, she said they are good because they have self imposed limits, a person can only spend what they have in the bank.
Martin did warn that often people aren't very good record keepers and tend to lose receipts. This becomes a problem when the person over does the spending and doesn't have enough money to make a big payment, she said.
As well as controlling the urge to charge, there are credit traps that some stumble onto. She said one is "charge now with no payments until February."
" If you cant's afford it now, then you can't afford it then," Martin said.
Also, these "deals" sometimes charge interest during the "no payment" period.
Another possible way to ruin a credit report is to apply for too many cards. Martin says that even though someone might not be approved or accept all cards offered, it still damages his or her credit report.
"You need to avoid applying for a lot of things. These cause injury on a credit report because too many inquires is not good," Martin said.
She gave the example of a college student who was "turned down" for credit that he really wanted because of 12 inquires on his credit report. He had applied for credit cards during Spring Break, just to get free T-shirts, and got a bad credit report instead.
She said this is because there is a such a thing as "having too much of a good thing." Too many credit cards are looked upon as having "potential debt" because it is very easy for someone to max-out all of the credit cards at once, she said.
Although students don't receive the best interest rates, Martin said if you handle the payments wisely there will be better opportunities latter on.
She said students are granted cards with high interest rates because they are a high risk group.
"Students don't have established credit and they don't have a steady income," Martin said.
"Be responsible and pay them," Martinez said. "If you don't work, don't get one."
Students do have other motives for having credit cards than just buying presents. Mario Carmona, a senior, said that he got his cards through school and to establish good credit.
Already drowning in the bills? Martin says there are no quick fixes. She suggests concentrate on making timely payments and gradually getting the cards paid-off. She said although bad credit stays on the credit report for seven years, showing responsible behavior will help reestablish credit.
She offers advice for those who are barely a float. "There is absolutely nothing wrong with asking for help with the situation. Don't let it derail your life," Martin said.
She said that instead of waiting for miracle, people can receive free and confidential counseling from CCCS. Martin said they offer objective advise and negotiate with the credit card companies. They have a track record, according to Martin.
She also suggests calling the companies and making payment arrangements or see if they will lower the interest rate if the balances are a little too much to handle.
To avoid feeling the "holiday spirit" in credit card statements throughout the year to come, take it easy on the cards, and have a merry credit report.
by Carol Gomez
Approaching the Texas A&M International University campus, large pillars of smoke and dirt billow up high into the air. Getting closer to the campus, a CAT slowly bulldozes all the brush and mesquite into a neat pile. After shaping several of these mounds, the foremen set them ablaze. Large fields of monte have been cleared all along the Bob Bullock Loop area especially in front of TAMIU. The land surrounding the campus is currently being cleared for development. Upon investigation, though, there is presently no official plan for development.
City Planner II, Mr. Juan Segovia, related that currently there has been a master plan submitted, called the Killam Master Plan or Preliminary Land Use Study for the Killam Property Surrounding the Texas A&M International University, but, he added, even "master plans change." This means that the use of the land surrounding TAMIU has not been definitively decided. Hence, the land has not been sold to any prospectors since zoning has not been officially finalized.
The current Master Plan has an approximate total acreage area of 1,350 acres. Under this master plan, the TAMIU campus has been allotted approximately 300 acres, commercial/institutional property has been approximately allotted 68.4 acres, commercial/retail 180.4 acres, single family development 368.4, multifamily 113.3, office development area has been allotted 93.2, designated areas for parks 161.3 acres, and major road ways have been allotted 65 acres.
The TAMIU campus is still undergoing several phases of development. The master plan reflects some of the main developments on the TAMIU campus such as more buildings, parking areas, a football/track field, as well as a baseball field. Still, though, some of these 300 acres appear to be left blank for added expansion.
This master plan calls for a proposed loop road that will partly encircle TAMIU starting from the southwest end of TAMIU in from Bob Bullock Loop and ending at Del Mar Boulevard to the north of TAMIU with several inroads to TAMIU and surrounding areas. University Boulevard would intersect with this road northeast of TAMIU.
Under this master plan, the land immediately to the west of TAMIU, to the west of Bob Bullock Loop, has been zoned for commercial/retail use. In essence, this land is for restaurants, small shopping malls, stores, hotels, and the like.
Land to the southwest of TAMIU, has been zoned for commercial/institutional and office use. In the commercial/institutional zones, land is designated for institutions such as hospitals, student residence buildings, university buildings, or any public building. Offices zones usually consist of complexes that have office space.
Land to the south of TAMIU has been zoned for multifamily homes or complexes. These residences are typically apartments or complexes which can house several families in one complex.
The land to the east of TAMIU would be designated for single family residences, multifamily residences and park lands. The single family residences are homes which would typically have one family as residents. These areas would eventually be subdivisions. There are about three areas to the south of TAMIU that have been designated as park land. These areas would interconnect with each other and with TAMIU and would intertwine with the various single family residence zones. This park land also lines parts of Lake Casa Blanca. Such park lands could have hiking/biking trails and picnic areas.
Land to the north of TAMIU would consist of commercial/retail, office, single family and one park land area.
As to when this master plan will be finalized this is still unknown. Several plans have been considered and will continue to be considered by the planning and zoning commission until a final plat will be approved. There are several meetings held at City Hall throughout the year which the Planning and Zoning Commission holds to consider zone changes, plats, replats, master plan revisions, and master plan reviews and considerations of preliminary and final plats. Meeting dates, times, locations, and minutes can be obtained from city hall at 1110 Houston, Street 2nd floor, Planning Department.
Dear Sirs:
Let me begin this letter with a technique that was all too frequently used
in previous articles appearing in The Bridge: I will begin with a question.
Do you know how bad your newspaper really is? I'm sorry if that sounds overly
harsh, bu the truth is that the The Bridge Ôs performance is subpar
by many journalistic standards.
I know what you are thinking. You probably assume that I am some sort of disgruntled patron that has a bone to pick with you over some previous article or editorial that I may have found offensive. Wrong. I have nothing to gain by writing this other than peace of mind in offering constructive criticism to improve the quality of the 3,000 copies of your newspaper that is all too often thrown in some wastebasket within minutes of being acquired.
First, I want to tell you that your choice of stories is rather poor. Apparently you are not fully aware of TAMIU's demographics. Your masthead states that The Bridge is a student-run newspaper for Texas A & M International. I assume that in addition to the approximately 3,000 students, that logo includes the faculty and staff. So, keeping that in mind, where are the stories that students and faculty can relate to? Sure, you have articles on sex, the Internet, and paycheck woes, but in reality, who really cares? Unfortunately, I know a lot of people that do not.
Your stories are about broad topics that are as old as some of the potholes in downtown Laredo. Really, Affirmative Action and Rape articles are superfluous. Anyone can go to the local Maverick Market and pick up some magazine that talks about those topics. I am NOT insensitive to the plights of any individuals in the aforementioned story lines, but instead, I feel that those type of stories are all too often mundanely covered by journalists.
I was always under the assumption that a college run newspaper was to inspire deeper thinking, controversial topics, and creative thought. I'm sorry, but The Bridge fails to do so. From what I saw this last issue (and in the others before it), this newspaper "plays it safe." What do I mean by that? Simple, you tackle topics that are visibly seen in the state and local media without paying any attention to the objects that affect people on campus on a daily basis. In other words, "you can't see the forest for the trees." Sure, your articles are filled with interesting facts, figures, and percentages, but what about the real stories that TAMIU students and faculty can relate to? Remember, you are dealing with an audience with a very high level of education. An audience that reads the local newspaper and listens to the news. You have to offer them something new and interesting. Something they can sink their teeth into.
By my estimation, a large part of the student body and faculty are in the school of education and the school of business. Where are the articles that might interest them? UISD is ready to tackle on year-round school after a TAMIU sponsored examination, and nothing appears in your newspaper. Obviously, that affects a large number of the student body who are in the education program. How will that affect students who like to take summer courses? Will year round school have any affect on morale? Those are a couple of things to think about. Business was also left out. What about the recent letters to the editor in the Laredo Morning Times blaming toxic dumping in the river on the trucking industry? The effects on the border business are obviously far-reaching, yet, you have decided to ignore them. Remember the kaleidoscope of Laredo intrigue—there is always something interesting going on.
I apologize for sounding so cynical, but I feel I have to tell you about some of your shortcomings. From what I see, and it is only my opinion, this newspaper has a potential for something greater than just venting your personal interest stories. To the layperson, the layout is filled with space-filling articles and graphics intended to give the impression that real investigative journalism is being accomplished. In reality, it is not. Career Corner's Handy Glossary and the large graphics that fill your voices section are only an example of competent editing. Please try to listen to the voice of your readers, which unfortunately, all- too-often discard your newspaper within minutes of opening the first page. I know, for I have seen the piles of newspapers in Killam's fourth floor.
It is time to reevaluate your goals and agendas. Are you writing this newspaper to inspire critical thinking and creative thought processes, or are you writing it for the personal satisfaction of having someone ЪÌÆ
Dear Sir:
While reading your latest edition of the The Bridge, Vol.II, number 7, dated
November 1997, I saw the editorial cartoon by Jes. As a public school teacher
in the United Independent School District and a past teacher at United High
School, I take offense to this Ôcartoon'.
There are several points within this issue. The first issue would be the reaction of many individuals with Hispanic surnames who live in and around Laredo and who send their children to our schools. The cry of racism is filling the air here in Laredo, as well in Texas, over such material as in this cartoon.
If this material is all that your cartoonist had to work with, it must have indeed been a slow day in the Bridge's office. I am not against free speech or freedom of the press, I just think this cartoon's only purpose was to insult a certain group of people.
I know many people will respond with "the illegal children are taking from us and not giving anything back." So tell us, how do we deal with that situation?
The argument can go on for days on this subject, but it is pointless. Disgruntled parents, overzealous coaches, administrators who can not keep their hands out of politics, and mischievous students full of school spirit have taken this whole sorted situation out of control. I do not have, nor desire the will to figure all this out. The University Interscholastic League which governs athletics in this state, has spoken and determined the eligibility of the players. Stop already and get on with life!
There is a rift in Laredo in both school districts at this time. Material such as what was published in your newspaper only serves to widen that rift. Censorship is not an issue here, but a little common sense would have been served for the common good.
If your cartoonist's point was to say there are too many illegal children who make their way into our schools, it's an individual call on his part. It's not my job as a teacher to check residency. It's my job to teach any and all students who enroll in my classes. With this point in mind, I am quite sure one can go to any school in the state and find many students that are illegal.
All your cartoonist did was to insult Hispanics and demean the roll[sic] of education in Laredo. I also find it highly insulting to anyone who calls themselves a teacher.
The cartoon was not funny, it was insulting.
[signed]
James Kirchenbauer
by Ismael Hinojosa
You never thought you'd get used to it. The sleepless nights studying, the rat-tat-tat of fingers against a keyboard, the accumulation of sweat on the palms of your hands as the person before you concludes his presentation. Despite the inhumanity it all eventually became routine, even that nagging feeling in the back of your head that insists you're forgetting something of significant importance, like a midterm. Your body gradually became accustomed to the pressure of research papers, exams, presentations, quizzes, and assignments. Then BANG! It hits you all at once, lethal volleys of academia's most brutal weapon. You look down at that puddle of goo that was once your GPA and you know it's Final's Week.
Since finals are indeed upon us, I felt it apropos to dust off that often-talked about rarely acted on subject of "Dead Week." Some universities around the country, such as UT and our sister university at College Station, have set aside a few days free of lectures and labs, during the end of the semester directly before finals, to allow students more time to study for finals. These days have been affectionately called "Dead" because the usually bustling campus, excluding the library and computer labs, is devoid of students.
A traditional argument for a "Dead Week" is that it is not reasonable to expect students to be able to cover a semester's worth of material, in not only one classes but usually four to five classes, in the span of a week. To which critics usually fire back that students should have started studying for finals from the very first class day and that not all finals are cumulative. This is absolutely correct, for example I'll be taking six finals this semester and only two of those will be cumulative. This however does not disprove the need for a "Dead Week."
Another strong argument for a "Dead Week" is that finals are the only time when you are assured of an exam in every class within the span of seven days. While it may have happened earlier during the semester, by some freak occurrence, it certainly was not premeditated. Tests, papers, quizzes, and assignments during the final week of classes all cut into a student's study time for finals. Unless this University adopts a policy which forbids mandatory tests, essays, research papers, presentations, quizzes, and assignments during the final week of classes it is simply unreasonable to expect students to jump directly into finals.
Detractors might state that in order to implement a ÔDead Week' the University would have to cut into Summer, Christmas, Spring Break, and other holidays to make up for these Ôlost' days. Let's take a look at this academic year and see just how much the University would have to cut into our vacation time. September 1st was the first day of classes for the fall semester, with December 11 being the last class day, and the 12- 18 being the finals period. In order to obtain a full week off to study for finals, and not cut into the Christmas break, we would have had to had started classes on August 25 and we would have had this week (Dec. 8-11) to study for finals. For the spring semester classes begin on January 20th, with May 7th being the last class day, and May 8-14 will serve as the finals period. If we were to start classes on January 12th we could have May 8-14 as a ÔDead Week'.
Maybe an entire week is too drastic. Maybe the answer lies some where in the middle. One thing, however, is clear to me; the lack of a Ôno test/et al.' policy combined with a finals period following directly after the last week of classes is not a viable alternative.
by Pearl Marie Garza
The safety of TAMIU students, as well as the actual campus, is important to the campus police and they have many methods of keeping the campus free from crime. According to Chief Harry Stege, of the campus police, the purpose of the emergency posts throughout the campus are to alert the campus police of crime or emergency. How do these emergency posts work? Once the button is pushed, the phone dials 2911 which transfers directly to the telephones at the police office. The telephone emits a designated ring which alerts the officers, as well as, transmits the information into a computer system informing the officers of the location of the post. If the 2911 line is busy for any reason, the line will be transferred to the 911 line. If the 911 line is busy for any reason, the line will be transferred back to 2911, alternating until someone answers the line. Meantime, the blue strobe light flashes, so that any officer nearby can see it and immediately attend the situation. The phone elevators as well as the University Village security system work in the same manner.
TAMIU has 13 police officers, 10 of which are on duty at the present time. The officers work in three shifts with at least two on duty per shift. There are officers on duty 24 hours a day, so no matter what time it is, assistance is available to anyone who is in an emergency situation at the University or at the University Village.
According to Chief Stege, the only crime on campus has been theft of office materials. As far as car theft is concerned, not one has been reported. Chief Stege is proud that there are few crimes on campus and thanks the faculty, staff and students for their cooperation with the insurance of safety at the university. Chief Stege also recommends that students, faculty or staff go by to view all the updates, statistics, crime logs and instant reports. They are available to anyone who is interested. If you need or want any information concerning the safety at the university, just go by the University Police Department located in the lower level of the Killiam building or call them at 326-2100.
by Gabriela Cordova
Every school year, faculty and students look forward to their fall semester vacations (including: Thanksgiving and Christmas). For those who are Texas residents, flying/driving home for the holidays could be accessible. But what about students and faculty members who are not able to do so.
For some international students, going home during fall vacations can be inconvenient due to several reasons. These factors range anywhere from short vacation spans to money shortage. In such cases, students keep their minds focused on other activities. This could include: traveling with other students to their homes, grouping with other students in the same situation, or even catching up on unfinished school work.
Since most international students do not celebrate Thanksgiving, rushing to their homes during that time is not necessary. To relieve these students from boredom, the AIS (Association for International Students) plans certain events. For instance, Spyros Charalambous (president of AIS - from Cyprus) and other members of the organization could make arrangements for students who wish to travel to an out of town event (such as: a concert). Unfortunately, "most students were busy with their studies, that we weren't able to plan anything this time," says Spyros. The AIS is hoping to have more students show interest in organizing such projects for the next fall semester.
The international students and faculty spent their weekend in other ways, however. Some of the students, including Professor Jeff Brown, utilized their time by spending it with close friends/pupils. "This year, I've gotten offers from students and faculty to spend Thanksgiving with them," says Dr. Brown. For several people, such an arrangement could be pleasant as they are invited and introduced to their acquaintance's family and home. "It's good...you get to know the person a bit better," adds Brown. In other instances, students took their given days to work on their studies. "Since the time off is very short to fly to and from France, it is better to stay here and study for now," says Michael Kowalski (French student).
Luckily, for all, most will now have the opportunity to return home for the Christmas holidays. Given a longer time span, this trip could be convenient for most students. "Around Christmas time, I'll get to travel to Houston and then, later, to Los Angeles for New Year's Eve," adds Michael.
During given school breaks, some students may tend to become depressed. By following these sorts of examples, nobody's spirits have to be dampened any longer. Of course, it is rough for some students, but one should try to find ways of coping through positive activities.
If anyone wishes to contact the Association of International Students for
future holiday activities, you may do so by e-mail
Hans Bonner - Osorio (Vice-President of AIS) bh057472@tamiu.edu Or, the official
organization e-mail at ais@tamiu.edu
Community members were invited to attend an evening of traditional celebration as Texas A&M International University presents a Posada on Thursday, December 4 at 6:30 p.m. in the Kinesiology/Convocation Building.
The Posada, the first at the University's new campus, featured a welcome and introduction by members of the Student Government Association, the symbolic reenactment of Mary's and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem by the University's Newman Club, and a performance by the University's Ballet Folklorico group.
The reenactment began on the second floor of the Kinesiology/Convocation Building.
After the processional, members of the University's Ballet Folklorico performed five traditional dances of Mexico, "Flor de Piña," from Oaxaca, "La Bruja," from Veracruz, and "La Evangelina," "La Atravancada," and "La Gruella,' from Nuevo León, Mexico.
The dancers, all students at A&M International, include Sandra Ballesteros, Esmeralda Cardenas, Gabriela Cavazos, Cynthia Garza, Isabel Gutierrez, Alexander Hernandez, Vanessa Huerta, David Jones, Luz Leal, Guillermo Moreno de Leon, Pedro Leonardo, Ping Liu, Gladys Martinez, Juan Carlos Merla, Abril Pineda, Juan De Dios Reza, Laura Rodriguez, and Xochitl Rodriguez.
The dance group is under the direction of Gabriela Mendoza, Associate Director of the University's Office of Student Development, and former professional dancer.
The event ended with a reception featuring traditional Mexican dishes served during the Christmas season including tamales and champurrado.
On November 13th, 1997, the TAMIU Explorer post traveled to Beaumont, Texas to compete in the Southeast Texas Law Enforcement Competition. TAMIU sent three teams, and there were approximately sixty teams in all from Texas to as far as Gulfport, Mississippi. They competed in scenarios such as Crime Scene Search, Bomb Scene Investigation, Domestic Dispute, Traffic Investigation, Misdemeanor Traffic Stops, Felony Traffic Stops, Building Search, and Crime Prevention. They left Friday, November 14th.
The trophy was for first place in Crime Scene Search. They would like to thank the TAMIU Police Department and Sgt. Copeland of the Zapata County Sheriffs Department for all the help, support and confidence in this organization. Congratulations were given to Explorers: Captain Michelle L. Medina, Lt. Rosalinda Abrego, Sgt. Jose L. Uribe, Cpl. Monica Solis, Reymundo Salinas, Mario Gomez Jr., Humberto Olachea, Claudia Y. Palacios, Ashley N. Hernandez and their advisors: Officer Sylvia Steele, Officer Albert Vasquez, and Jorge Z. Martinez for their great accomplishment and a job well done.
by Alexander Mendoza
If you would ask a group of average Texas A & M International Students to formulate a list of accomplished authors, names like Stephen King, Tom Clancy, and Michael Crichton would quickly surface. Asking those same students to name an accomplished Laredo author, however, would present a bigger challenge. Unknown to many students is the fact that Dr. Jerry Thompson, Dean of the School of Arts & Humanities, is one of the most prolific and respected historians of the Texas-Mexican border and the Civil War. With more than fifteen books and two dozen contributions to academic journals to his credit, Dr. Thompson's career is often overlooked. Dr. Thompson's A Wild and Vivid Land: An illustrated History of the South Texas Border, to be released in December, will be the fifteenth book published in his illustrious, yet often ignored, career as a Laredo writer/scholar. Next spring, Fifty Miles and a Fight: The Journal of Samuel P. Heintzelman in the Cortina War will be released, thus adding to Dr. Thompson's already impressive resume.
Jerry Don Thompson was born in Springeville, Arizona, but grew up in New Mexico. Graduating from Quemado High School in Quemado, New Mexico. Thompson attended the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology at Socorro, New Mexico and received his B.A. from Western New Mexico University at Silver City in 1964. After a short stint as a classroom teacher in Albuquerque and a graduate assistant for the University of New Mexico, Thompson received his M.A. in history from the University of New Mexico in 1968. His thesis, "John Robert Baylor and the Civil War in the Southwest," was published three years later, a rare honor for thesis work.
In the next fifteen years, Thompson rose to Chairman and then Director of the Honors Program at Laredo Junior College. In 1985, he became an Associate Professor at Laredo State University. During this time, Thompson finished his Doctorate degree from Carnegie-Mellon University at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and published two books on the Southwest and Civil War eras. However, it was not until Laredo: A Pictorial History was published in 1986 that Laredo took notice.
The study of Laredo's history through an illustrated, easy-to-read format was a popular hit among many citizens. Thompson, by tracing the origins of the city's founding fathers and viewing the enormous growth the city has seen in the last century, was quickly established a favorite in many of Laredo's libraries. The publishers reprinted Laredo: A Pictorial History in 1995, due to popular demand.
"Dr. Thompson has done more for Laredo's history than any other person," stated a local educator. The high school history teacher, who received his M.A. from LSU and studied under Dr. Thompson's tutelage, points out that before Dr. Thompson's arrival, the city had neglected to keep track of its own history. All that changed after Dr. Thompson wrote journal articles on Santos Benavides, Mexican-Texans in the Civil War, and the history around the Rio Grande.
In the next ten years Thompson wrote more books, each with its own take on the history of the Southwest. During that time, he wrote a biography, a study of Mexican Texans in the Civil War, and the 1886 Laredo Election riot. In addition, Thompson edited several journals of the Civil War era and contributed articles to encyclopedias of Texas and the American West. In 1995, Dr. Thompson became the Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities, coinciding with TAMIU's move to a new campus on the Bob Bullock Loop. The change was a drastic one compared with the initial environment to which he came from. "I remember my first year at Laird Hall [at L.C.C.], and thinking it was a wonderful facility," Thompson reminisced, "but we have come a long way since then."
The last two years have been a whirlwind of activity for Dr. Thompson. Modestly referring to his hectic daily schedule as "exciting," Dean Thompson is busy helping to plan the future of TAMIU As the university prepares to enter its Phase III, he points to the construction of a $15-20 million Fine & Performing Arts Center "encompassing a number of things" as the university's highlight for the new Millennium.
I found my current position through the internet. This is not so surprising nowadays but still not all that common. I sat in front of a computer in Chicago, Illinois and ended up with an interview in Laredo, Texas (& Santa Rosa, California; Ithaca, New York; Madison, Wisconsin). As I am sure you know, the internet has many more uses than just for chatting or checking out the latest fan page .
Career Planning and Placement encourages you to use the internet and ALL the resources (print, video, job fairs, counselors, etc.) available for you to explore careers, prepare for the job search, and view vacancies. Don't limit yourself to just one method of job searching. The internet is definitely not the answer for most people looking for their dream job, but it has valuable information that is only a few keystrokes away.
CAREER INFORMATION
If you are still deciding between economics or accounting, psychology or
sociology, chemistry or biology, you can search for career information using
the following sites:
OCCUPATIONAL OUTLOOK HANDBOOK (http://stats.bls.gov/ocohome.htm) All information listed in this source (also available in print in KL 157) is provided by the federal government and includes a description, the trend for the year 2005, average starting salary, and the type of training needed for that career.
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS (your field's specific association can be found in Professional & Trade Association Directories) Some associations will provide websites with their latest newsletter, job leads, trends, upcoming conferences, and networking opportunities.
JOB TRAK'S CAREER FORUM (http://www.jobtrak.com/forum/) A chatboard allows you to ask specific questions about your field and receive responses from professionals or other students.
NATIONAL INTERNSHIPS AND PROGRAMS
HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES (http://www.hacu2000.org/hnip/index.htm)-HACU, in cooperation with some federal agencies, has a competitive internship program (applications available at CP&P) offered in the Spring and Fall. TAMIU is a member of HACU and supports applications through Career Planning and Placement.
4WORK (http://www.4work.com/)
Lists internships, part-time, and volunteer work.
ACTION WITHOUT BORDERS (http://www.idealist.org/)
Action Without Borders works to promote and facilitate collaboration,
volunteerism and investment in support of these goals.
GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL SCHOOLS
PETERSONS GUIDES (http://www.petersons.com/)
These guides (also available in print in KL 157) have a search option that
allows you to look by field of interest, state, or other criteria. They provide
a description of the program and how to contact the university.
GO COLLEGE (http://www.gocollege.com/)
This site is geared toward high school and undergraduate students and even
includes some scholarship information.
UNIVERSITY HOMEPAGES Already know what school you want to go to? Most universities and colleges have a website that provides admissions information and detailed descriptions of their graduate and professional programs. Sometimes they even include the applications for print or option to apply on-line.
PROJECT 1000 (http://mati.eas.asu.edu:8421/P1000/) Project 1000 is a national program created to assist underrepresented students applying to graduate school. Students may apply to up to seven of the over 70 participating Project 1000 institutions by using one application. CD available in KL 157.
LATINO/NATIVE AMERICAN NETWORK (http://www.unm.edu/~lananet/) This service's goal is to increase the number of Latinos and Native Americans considering graduate education. Members of LANA© receive information about graduate school and summer research opportunity programs at major universities. Application is on-line.
JOB SEARCH
AMERICA'S JOB BANK (http://www.AJB.dni.us/)
Provided by the department of labor, this site includes many full-time
professional jobs, not just in government but also the private sector. It
also has links to geographical and occupational trend information.
THE MONSTER BOARD (http://www.monster.com/)
One of the most popular search and information sites on the net. Has a variety
of information including job listings.
JOB WEB(http://www.jobweb.org/)
Produced by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, has job listings
and other valuable information. Job Choices magazines are available for free
at KL 157.
JOB TRAK(http://www.jobtrak.com/)
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For additional help in navigating through the internet in search of career related information, please stop by Career Planning and Placement in Killam West Building Room 157. You can also call 326-2260 and ask for Viky Garcia.
Drinking doesnÕt mix with shopping
HOUSTON—HereÕs a combination to avoid this holiday season: drinking and shopping. Drinking alcohol can lead to impulse shopping, said Dr. Stuart C. Yudofsky, a psychiatrist at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.
ÒIf you have a few drinks at a party, go home, not to the mall,Ó Yudofsky said.
To avoid impulse buying and over-spending on holiday gifts, make a list, allow a certain amount of time for shopping and shop in advance, he said.
You might also want to leave your credit cards at home.
ÒSpending cash makes the purchase seem more ÔrealÕ than using plastic,Ó Yudofsky said.
But, whether you spend cash or use credit cards, lay off the alcohol before you go shopping.
Cold can be harmful, even down South
HOUSTON—If you live in the South, donÕt think you are safe from the dangerous effects of cold weather.
Hypothermia, a condition resulting from dangerously low body temperatures, can occur even when it is only 50 degrees outside. Hypothermia has been reported even in tropical climates, said Dr. Stephen Spann of Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.
Infants and the elderly are at highest risk.
BabiesÕ bodies lose heat faster because the surface area is larger in proportion to their weight than in adults.
In older people, the body gradually loses its cold sensitivity. Elderly people are less likely to detect temperature drops, and they recover more slowly from lowered body temperature. Tranquilizers and alcohol can complicate the situation.
Early warning signs of hypothermia include a pale, puffy face; drowsiness; drop in blood pressure; and forgetfulness.
Holiday poisnings all too common
HOUSTON—GrandmaÕs purse may be the most dangerous threat to children during the holidays.
ÒAccidental poisonings are the main holiday-related emergency we see,Ó said Dr. Marcus J. Hanfling, director of the Pediatric Injury Center at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. ÒIn all the hubbub of family visits, medications often are left out or within easy reach of children.Ó
If you have small children, Hanfling said, ask the relatives you visit to put all medications, toxic cleaning supplies nd other potential hazards well out of reach of young ones. This is especially true if youÕre visiting a house old that does not normally have children in it.
Be cautious with some eye drops
HOUSTON—Over-the-counter eye drops designed to reduce redness can actually cause more serious problems.
Researchers at the Cullen Eye Institute at HoustonÕs Baylor College of Medicine found that these nonprescription drops can produce conjunctivitis symptoms, such as redness, swelling and itching.
ÒSome people experienced a rebound effect, where their eyes became increasingly red,Ó said Dr. Douglas Koch, an ophthalmologist who co authored the study. ÒThe other problems we found were allergic reactions in the eyes and eyelids and swelling of the eyelids.Ó
Artificial tears, without medications to reduce redness, are safe alternatives, Koch said.
By Mari delaGarza
Reporter for The Bridge
ÔTis the season for rest and relaxation, for most students. With finals over and a Christmas vacation to conquer there will be a run on the video stores offering a variety of movies to rent. To get into the Christmas spirit here are several video rental options.
The Santa Clause
The Santa Clause is a comedy that answers the question, ÒWhat happens if Santa falls off of the roof?Ó
Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) is a divorced father who has custody of his son Charlie during the Christmas season.
During a freak accident, Santa slips off of CalvinÕs roof. Following the directions of a note inside of SantaÕs suit, Calvin puts on the suit and becomes the new Santa. Him and Charlie spend the night delivering Christmas presents and bonding, but all does not go well.
Upon returning home Calvin gains weight and Charlie tells everyone about their adventure. Charlie soon learns that not everyone believes in Santa, especially adults.
This movie takes a humorous look at what it would be like to be Santa and what it is like to believe in the unbelievable.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas
Narrated by Boris Karloff, this cartoon classic written by Dr. Suess gives the viewer a glance at the Christmas spirit.
Set in Whoville, the Grinch, whose soul is described as a garbage dump, sets out to ruin Christmas for the village people.
Dressed like Santa, the Grinch sneaks into the villagerÕs homes and steals everything related to Christmas. He steals their stockings, presents, trees, ornaments, and even their food for the Christmas feast. Why, he even stole candy canes from sleeping children, proving that his heart was two sizes too small.
After stealing every Christmas item from the entire town, the Grinch and his dog Max take the items to Mount Crumpet to throw over the edge. Before throwing them over the cliff, he turned to the village to listen to them cry, but what he heard instead changed him forever.
This cartoon shows that Christmas spirit can carry on without toys and food. It also shows that someone can change for the better.
A Christmas Story
This 1980s classic Christmas movie is narrated by a nine-year-old boy named Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley). Set in Indiana during the 1940s, this comedy is about Christmas time at RalphieÕs house.
All Ralphie wants for Christmas is a Red Ryder Carbine Action Two Hundred Shot Lightning Loader Range Model Air Rifle ( a bee-bee gun). The plot centers around his desire for the gun and his familyÕs strange quirks.
This movie takes the viewer back to what itÕs like to be a kid, to be teased, dared and to be beat-up by the town bully.
After getting his wish, Ralphie soon learns that things donÕt always turn out as you thought they would.
Laughter is guaranteed to fill your house as you watch Ralphie go through a very painful and very funny holiday season.
Beavis and Butt-head Do Christmas
Comprised of two different short cartoons and two short interludes called ÒLetters to Santa Butt-headÓ this Christmas cartoon provides a lot of laughs for teenagers and Generation Xers.
Created by MTV, it has obsence language and the same vulgarity that has made this teenage duo popular.
Each character is the star of his own version of a classical Christmas tale that has been twisted.
Beavis is the main character in the first cartoon entitled ÒHuh-Huh Humbug.Ó As you might have already guessed, itÕs based on A Christmas Carol.
He plays the title character, Scrooge, in which he is the mean and uncaring manager at Burger World. As clueless as Beavis is, he entirely misses the point of the visits from the ghosts and thinks itÕs cool.
Butt-head plays the title character in ÒItÕs a Miserable Life.Ó
Based on the ItÕs a Wonderful Life, this version is the exact opposite of the movie.
Beavis and Butt-headÕs guardian angel comes down from Heaven to convince them to jump off a bridge.
The angel shows Butt-head how happy everyone (including Beavis) would be if he was never born.
Loving the misery of other people, the encounter does the exact opposite of what the angel had intended.
ÒLetters to Santa Butt-headÓ provides Òletters from real peopleÓ with their Christmas lists.
DonÕt worry music video fans because there are a few Christmas music videos thrown in between the different cartoon.
This video is a change from the classic Christmas stories and is highly recommended. But, of course, is not suitable viewing material for small children.
Jingle All The Way
Jingle All The Way is a movie that offers slapstick comedy with a superhero. Schwarzenager plays a workaholic father, Howard Langston, who never seems to keep hispromises to his family.
After missing his sonÕs Karate class, Howard decides to give his son whatever he wants for Christmas-Turboman, the hardest toy to get since the Cabbage Patch Kids debuted.
Determined to keep his promise, Howard ventures out on Christmas Eve in search of the toy, where he encounters Meri (Sinbad) a psychotic postman. They soon turn into arch rivals as it becomes apparent that there are no more Turbomen in stock.
They try to out smart and foil each otherÕs attempt to buy a Turboman much in the style of the Three Stogies.
As well as encountering Meri as an obstacle, Howard continually runs into trouble with Officer Hamill (Robert Conrad). He also falls in with a black market Santa played by James Belushi and runs from the police after Meri almost blows-up a radio station that had Turboman as the prize of a contest.
Howard also has to deal with Ted (Phil Hartman) a slick neighbor who tries to be the perfect father for HowardÕs family while he is out trying to keep his promise to his son.
This movie proves to be fun for the whole family mixing the elements of most good movies: violence, alcohol and the law, and giving them a wholesome appeal as well as an important message, promises are more important than anything money can buy.
By Veronica Sanchez
Hey there everyone! Are you having trouble finding the right kind of music for you? Are you nervous to buy an album because you are afraid you wonÕt like it? I have a solution, here are five albums I personally reviewed for you. The rating system is as follows:
Æ No good
Æ Æ Alright
Æ Æ Æ Not bad, but may need something
Æ Æ Æ Æ Good
Æ Æ Æ Æ Æ Great
Ben Folds Five Æ Æ Æ Æ Æ
Whatever and Ever Amen (Sony 550 Music/ Epic Records)
If I had to describe this band in one word I would say, WOW! I never thought that I would get to listen to a band as good as this one. If you are a person who loves to try new music youÕll love Ben Folds Five. The band consists of three members, one of which whales on the piano. Ben Folds is a unique piano player, he has a knack for making everything sound so easy. The band has already released two songs off the album. The first song to be released, One angry dwarf and two hundred solemn faces, is a song for those who have been picked on in early childhood. Brick is a song about feelings within a relationship gone sour. I really like this band because they not only are in tune with reality in the songs, but the also have a knack for using the right words. The of the songs say that the band is very unconventional in the sense that they are unique in the way they express themselves. Their sound that is easy to listen to and is fun. The music is Jazz and Pop mixed into one. In my opinion this album is for every music lover. They have songs for everyone, if have been dumped you have to hear Song for the Dumped, itÕs hilarious and you will know exactly how he feels. I highly recommend this album to be added to your Christmas list. There are very few bands that you can listen to without skipping a song on their album, this is one of them. I went ahead and gave them five check marks for their uniqueness and their all around sound.
Blur Æ Æ Æ Æ Æ +
Blur (Virgin Records)
Whee-hoo! ÒI go my head shaved... it wasnÕt easy... but nothing is, no!Ó I love Blur, they are the band. The album is self titled, and itÕs a winner. The most popular from Blur is Song 2. Yes, thatÕs the name of the song, and it is song number two on the album. This song is about,... well, about hair, meeting someone, and yelling. (Whee-hoo!) I like this album because itÕs just plain fun. For example, these are the names of some of the other songs: Beetlebum, Death of a Party, Chinese Bombs, and IÕm Just Killer For Your Love. With titles like these how can you say they donÕt sound fun?
This band is cool and so is their album. If you, or someone you know, is in need of a good ÒAlternativeÓ album there is help. Go to your nearest C.D. vendor today and buy BLUR. I give them Five and + check marks, because the album rocks!
Wyclef Jean Æ Æ Æ Æ Æ
The Carnival Featuring Refugee Allstars (Ruffhouse/Columbia)
Wycleff Jean is one of the members of the group The Fugees. This is his first release away from the original band. This album is great to listen to when you are in the mood for a little R&R. You will laugh, sing, and dance to your heartÕs content. The Carnival is filled with funky beats, down to earth lyrics, and a story. The first single to be released off of Carnival was We Try To Stay Alive, this is JeanÕs R&B version of the Bee GeeÕs popular song from Saturday Night Fever, StayinÕAlive. Along with the music there is a story to explain the variety of topics for his songs. In the beginning of his album, you start to listen to a court case of the defendant Wycleff Jean. You get to be the jury. The prosecution is claiming that Wycleff is a bad person in our society, and they would like to send him off for all the crimes he has done. Each track explains a bit of why heÕs being accused of being bad. If you have a rap lover on your Christmas list, I highly recommend this album. It gets five check marks, enjoy.
Fiona Apple Æ Æ Æ 1/2
Tidal (Sony Music Records)
Twenty years old and already she has been named the best new female artist and best dressed, according to MTV. The album Tidal is FionaÕs debut album. It features a well written set of songs. Sleep To Dream was the first song off the album, Fiona sings about how she feels she has been cheated, and that she isnÕt going to take it any more. In her second release Criminal she sings, ÒIÕve been a bad bad girl,Ó this is the beginning of her explaining how she found love and she treated it like nothing special, so she is a criminal for that. Fiona has a great way of expressing herself with her music. All the songs on the album are written by Ms. Fiona herself I enjoyed the sound of her mellow voice. I also enjoyed the way she, and the musicians, were able to swallow my entire attention with the sounds of sweet blues. I think that this album deserves three and a half check marks for the great music, but I feel that the album lacked something. Maybe you can figure out for yourself what it needs. It is a good gift to get for a family member, or a close friend.
by Kathy Dunn
When I was about five years old up until I was twelve I would go Christmas caroling with my Mother and a bunch of other pony tailed girls in brown like myself. The whole girl scout troop would fit into our blue station wagon that had mountains designed on the window tint. From house to house we would sing our rehearsed songs and those we knew by heart- Feliz Navidad, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Often I bet we yelled more than we sang, but it still had the same effect on my grandmother that waited anxiously at her screen door with candy canes and cookies shaped like Frosty the Snowman. ThatÕs about as close as IÕve ever gotten to a snowman considering the warm climate that never leaves, even during Christmas break. Sometimes when weÕd be jumping in and out of the station wagon, IÕd stare at the windowÕs design of snow capped mountains and forest glowing in the bright lights of my grandmothers personal winter wonderland of a front yard, and I would be there in the mountains with Frosty, Rudolph and Santa. I had that same feeling while taking neighborhood cruises with my whole family past the many lit homes with Christmas trees in the window, and a nativity scene in the front. We would sing then as well. I think we even bought a tape one year to help us keep our rhythm. My younger brother liked the tape so much, he listened to it all year round. I remember the embarrassment of getting dropped off at school in the Fall while Christmas music blasted from our car. I enjoyed playing outside and singing these Christmas tunes with my younger brother, cold leaves for snow- I realized it was just the same. I had discovered Christmas spirit. Yeah thatÕs what turned my family into happy elves whistling in the car, and thatÕs why my grandmotherÕs house was like magic, and thatÕs why we gave all our hearts would allow our voice to express, and loved to receive the warmth in exchange. That is why we still wait like five year olds for Christmas day, even if weÕre far from five. Christmas spirit yells alive in our harmonies, our Posadas of door to door remembrance of the time. To all those laborerÕs of Christmas love- Gracias!
DecemberÕs artists of the month know quite a bit about the magic that erupts when singing- straight from the volcanoes of their soul. Virginia Avila, Sandra Villanueva, Julie Surtani, and Jessica Fulgham our all members of a local quartet. This group (with no name) collaborated spontaneously one Sunday afternoon while going for a ride in the car. ThereÕs something about singing in the car that obviously gets something going inside us. It all began for them when someone started humming ÒCalifornia DreaminÓ. Their individual harmonies began to blend while going south, past the Tourist Bureau on IH 35. Sandra Villanueva recalls, ÒThe voices fell into place, and we liked what we heard.Ó Sandra, Virginia, Julie, and Jessica all play guitar underneath the music they sing. A very unique aspect about this group is that they sing a capella style, and I donÕt know of many other local groups that do this. What I get mostly from this group when I speak with them, or more so when I hear them perform, is that they love to do it. They use the perfect ingredient for creating a delicious casserole of melody- Love.
TheyÕve performed at wedding ceremonies, Laredo Philharmonic social gatherings, and other places at friends request. The group also plays at St. PatrickÕs church, and aside from rocking with God on Sundays they gather twice a month to play some favorite tunes of their own. Folk Rock is a favorite for them, and this includes music performed by artistÕs like The Indigo Girls, Kirsten Hall, James Taylor, and Nanci Griffith. All of these artists, except for Nanci Griffith who is an Austin native, are from Georgia and play music that is known as the Atlanta Sound. The group plays this type of music and others when performing. They quite proud of one performance imparticular, and I think this gives a beat to the rhythm theyÕre all about. They were Òfiddling around with some music at Tony RomaÕs,Ó as Sandra remembers.Ò We were singing Happy Birthday to a friend using all these fun harmonies- we got a great applause.Ó They are Òfour friends that like to sing.Ó All of these women take time to fuel up on the music they sing in between their busy schedules. Julie who works in the accounts payable department at Sony commented on what keeps them together, Ò What binds us is a love for music, and the sheer fun of what we do.Ó Jessica is a science teacher at United South Middle School feels,Ó All music, rock or classical. Is spiritual. It makes me use all my senses.Ó What keeps the group going exactly? ÒIt is when the right sound sounds, and when melody and harmony blend just rightÓ says Virginia who is also a registered Radiographer working as a medical assistant. ThereÕs always room for a little creative flow in our lives, and I admire these women for giving that to themselves. ÒThereÕs a deep and personal satisfaction that comes from this singing,Ó concluded Sandra. Sandra is a Human Resources Specialist at TAMIU, and would like to know, Ò Is anyone else interested in this in singing this style of music?Ó The group will be filling our city with music for sometime to come, so listen for them and others that are out there voicing whatÕs inside.
Twas the night before finals and all thru the college
The students were praying for last minute knowledge.
Most were quite sleepy, but none touched their beds,
as visions of essays danced in their heads.
Out in the taverns, a few were still drinking;
And hoping that liquor would quicken their thinking.
In my own bedroom, I had been pacing,
And dreading exams, I soon would be facing.
My roommate was speechless, her nose in her books,
And my comments to her drew unfriendly looks!
I drained all the coffee and brewed a new pot,
No longer caring that my nerves were shot.
I stared at my notes, but my thoughts were muddy;
My eyes were a blur, I just couldn't study.
"Some pizza might help!" I said with a shiver,
But each place I called refused to deliver.
I'd nearly concluded that life was too cruel,
With futures depending on grades earned in school.
When all of a sudden, the door opened wide,
And Patron Saint Put-It-Off ambled inside.
His spirit was careless, his manner was mellow,
But seeing our state he started to bellow.
"On Cliff Notes! On Crib Notes! On last years exams!
On Wing it & Sling it and Last Minute Crams!
His message delivered, he vanished from sight,
But we heard him laughing outside in the night
"Your teachers have screwed you, now just do your best,
HAPPY FINALS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD TEST!"
by Ramiro Martinez
Gracias!
Because you
entered into my life,
porque to me distes animo,
porque tu me distes otra razon para vivir.
Antes de ti,
I did have someone;
but I was betrayed,
el no me queria.
He used me,
es lo que me decian.
He looked for me,
eso me gustaba.
He was by my side
como un angel,
but not for friendship,
sino por ser egoista.
Me buscaba con interes;
pero no del interes del amor,
but for self-interest;
Para cumplir sus
caprichos.
Me ciege con el
because I had no one else,
no one to spoil,
no one to comfort me.
Yo Si lo queria!
Pero eso cambio;
I proved to myself
that he had no heart for me.
It was hard for me
to accept reality.
It was a deep fall;
una caida bien profundo.
Ni se de donde
me agarre para evitar
the fall to the bottom
of the hole,
in which emptiness is found;
y en donde se encuentra
la soledad.
You came into my life
at the right moment;
en un momento
muy dificil,
y eso fue muy especial!
Por que tu me levantastes
de la caida
with your caring spirit and unselfishness.
Una vez mas
Gracias!
For your presence,
for your warm heart,
for your support,
and most of all
......por tu corazon.
by Ramiro Martinez
Solamente para avisarte
que te quiero,
que me haces falta,
que tu ternura se estrana,
y que tu sonrisa...
Se necesita para alumbrar
mi oscuridad.