Year: 2019

Changing majors can seem like a scary thought for many students, especially because there is a set idea that once you’re 20 years old, you have to have your life together. The reality is that everyone moves at a different pace, and changing your major might be a great idea for you!

When I started my freshman year, I went in knowing that I wanted to be a doctor, but I was confused as to how I would get there. Most people at my university were majoring in biology, so I went along with the trend. I soon realized that that wasn’t going to work for me. After that realization, I switched my major to forensic science. I thought that I wanted to be a pathologist, but again, I would change my major when I transferred from Loyola to Roosevelt. I went from forensic science to nuclear medicine technology to histotechnology. Currently, I am a philosophy major. I could go through my own thought process as to why I switched from major to major, but that could go on forever. Instead, here are some tips that might help you in your own process.

• Don’t be afraid to talk to your advisor: They have talked to many students and can help you discover new opportunities.

• Have a support system: If you’re changing your major, it can be a big deal. Having people around you that can help guide you will help!

• Shadow professionals in fields that you’re considering: There are individuals who actually live through the job that you might want. Most of the time, this opens up your eyes to whether or not you really want to pursue that degree for that job. If you do not like what you see, then maybe change it up!

• Talk to upperclassmen about their experiences: You would be surprised at how much you could learn from someone who is a year or more older than you. Maybe they could learn something from you as well!

You might be wondering why someone would change their major so abruptly and often. The truth is, as you go through college, you discover new ideas and paths that might change your goals. That is what happened to me, and that is what happens to a large percentage of college students. If you’re thinking about changing your major, just know you are not alone!

 

By: Sienna Cao

 

EMAIL:

awilliamsanderson@mail.roosevelt.edu

ANTICIPATED GRADUATION DATE:

2021

HOMETOWN:

Chicago, IL

WHY YOU CHOSE ROOSEVELT:

Roosevelt offers a lot of classes that other universities don’t. Also, it incorporates the city and what it has to offer into the education, which is really unique and cool.

MAJOR/MINOR:

Psychology

WHY YOU CHOSE THIS MAJOR/MINOR:

I became interested in Psychology through watching Criminal Minds and other shows like Snapped. I was always curious about what was going on in a person’s mind that made them act in certain ways and that curiosity led me to studying Psychology.

DREAM JOB AND WHY:

My dream job is to be a clinical psychologist who focuses on children and adolescents as well as their family structure. I think that by working with children at young ages and giving them a better understanding of mental health early on, leads to healthier mental states in the future and destigmatized treatment.

EXTRACURRICULARS (CLUBS, ORGS, JOBS, INTERNSHIPS, VOLUNTEER WORK, ETC.):

CASSAC, McNair, Program Assistant for RU Food and Toiletries Pantry

“GOING TO CRUSH THIS EXAM” PUMP-UP SONG:

Get Me Bodied by Beyoncé

STUDY BREAK GUILTY PLEASURE:

Watching Spongebob

BOOK YOU’D RECOMMEND READING BEFORE GRADUATION:

I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW THAT… :

I played Rugby for 2 years in high school

FAVORITE SPOT IN CHICAGO:

The Lakefront

LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED:

Captain Marvel

EMAIL:

cbarnum@mail.roosevelt.edu

ANTICIPATED GRADUATION DATE:

June 2020

HOMETOWN:

Lansing, IL

WHY YOU CHOSE ROOSEVELT:

I chose Roosevelt because it is located in Chicago and I love the city! Roosevelt was one of the few schools in Illinois that offered a Bachelor’s in Radiography. Another reason I chose it was because of the small class sizes.

MAJOR/MINOR:

Allied Health – Radiography

WHY YOU CHOSE THIS MAJOR/MINOR:

I loved my human anatomy and physiology classes and knew I wanted to work in healthcare. While x-ray is an imaging science it is also an art form. I am able to combine my love of art with my love of science.

DREAM JOB AND WHY:

After I become a licensed Radiologic Technologist I want to become a Radiologist. Going a step further and becoming the Radiologist would allow me to read the radiographs and diagnosis patients. I enjoy interacting with others and helping people.

EXTRACURRICULARS (CLUBS, ORGS, JOBS, INTERNSHIPS, VOLUNTEER WORK, ETC.):

At Roosevelt I am involved in the Natural Science Club, CASSAC, and the GPS program. I have also played soccer for 10 years.

BOOK YOU’D RECOMMEND READING BEFORE GRADUATION:

The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women by Kate Moore

FAVORITE SPOT AT ROOSEVELT:

The study room on the 31^st floor.

FAVORITE SPOT IN CHICAGO:

My absolute favorite spot in Chicago is the Riverwalk.

FAVORITE ANIMAL:

Giraffe

STUDY BREAK GUILTY PLEASURE:

Go walk around the city and listen to music.

My name is Mia Johnson, I am a first-year student in the PsyD Clinical Psychology program. When I first moved to Chicago last summer, I was overwhelmed by the amount of excitement that happens during this time of the year. Here are 7 ideas to get you started for your summer fun in Chicago:

1. Soak up the Sun at the Beach

This first activity is pretty obvious, since in Chicago we are lucky enough to have a wonderful view of Lake Michigan. Come down here with friends, brings some blankets and snacks, and soak up the sun by our beautiful beaches on the perimeter of the lake! The best part if you’ll never get too hot — the breeze from the lake is enough to keep you cool during these hot months.

2. The Lincoln Park Zoo

Head over to the Lincoln Park Zoo to see the animals and enjoy a number of activities that happen here on the daily! This zoo is free, which for us students is definitely a perk. The zoo also puts on plenty of adult-friendly events such as animal-themed paint and sip, yoga, and food truck festivals. These events may be ticketed, but they are all very affordable!

3. Music Festivals

This is something you probably already have on your bucket list, but if you didn’t already know, Chicago is an epicenter for many amazing music festivals and concerts. These festivals include Lollapalooza, Pitchfork, and Riot Fest. While you may be thinking a music festival is too expensive for you college budget, consider attending one of the free music festivals such as the Chicago House Music Festival or the Chicago Blues Festival, the largest free blues festival in the world.

4. Movies in the Park

If your evening is looking a little dull, consider attending one of the Movies in the Park Film Series in Millenium Park! They are playing movies for free all summer long. Take a walk down to the park to enjoy Black Panther, The Wiz, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, and more! Be sure to bring blankets to sit on and movie snacks!

5. Take a Boat Tour

Even if you have lived in Chicago your whole life, you would probably enjoy an architectural tour on the river or a sight-seeing tour on the lake! The great thing about this activity is there is no walking involved, so even after a long day of work, classes, or enjoying the other things Chicago has to offer, you get to wind down in a boat and enjoy the scenery. The Chicago skyline is beautiful, so why not learn about it and relax at the same time?

6. Street Festivals

Take advantage of what your neighborhood has to offer! Not all of us live in the loop, so during the summer save money on train fare and find festivals in your own neighborhood! If you don’t find anything in your neighborhood, check out places like Logan Square, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, or Ukranian Village for some fun street and food festivals to attend for free! The loop also offers many festivals such as Taste of Chicago and Pride!

7. Find Your Favorite Rooftop

Eating and drinking outside in the warm weather is one of the best summer activities. Chicago has so many rooftop bars and restaurants to choose from, so go explore and find your favorite! There are plenty of places in the loop area alone, but remember to check out the local spots in your neighborhood too. They are also great places to bring your family when they come visit you!

By: Mia Johnson

NAME:

Sharese Scott

EMAIL:

sscott19@mail.roosevelt.edu

ANTICIPATED GRADUATION DATE:

May 2020

HOMETOWN:

Chicago

WHY YOU CHOSE ROOSEVELT:

Athletics

MAJOR/MINOR:

Major Psychology

WHY YOU CHOSE THIS MAJOR/MINOR:

To learn more about myself and others being able to help.

DREAM JOB AND WHY:

Nurse Practitioner. I like helping people out.

EXTRACURRICULARS (CLUBS, ORGS, JOBS, INTERNSHIPS, VOLUNTEER WORK, ETC.):

Chicago Park District Recreational Leader in the summer.

FAVORITE COURSE TAKEN AT ROOSEVELT AND WHY:

Intro Psych. Professor was AMAZING!

“GOING TO CRUSH THIS EXAM” PUMP-UP SONG:

Hood Cycle G Herbo

STUDY BREAK GUILTY PLEASURE:

Snapchat

FAVORITE QUOTE:

Psalms 23

FAVORITE SPOT IN CHICAGO:

Downtown Chicago

1. Start Searching Early

Some internships and summer research opportunities open their applications as early as November. Websites such as internships.com focus on finding internships and is a great place to start. The Big Ten Academic Alliance has a Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP) that allows you to enhance your academic and research skills by working one-on-one with a faculty mentor from a top research university. This program is great for undergrads who plan on applying to graduate school.

2. Talk to Your Professors

When we first start college, we always get told to attend office hours and often we ignore this piece of advice. I’m here to tell you that that is one of the worst decisions! Office hours not only get you help if you need it, they also give you time to get to know you professors. This helps establish a connection and if the professor is within your major, can make an excellent resource for recommendation letters. Some professors are also doing current research and if they know you and your work ethic, they might allow you to help.

3. Go to Career Fairs and Career Service Office

Your Career Services Office at your college is a great resource and is free of charge! The counselors not only help you identify career and/or internship fairs, they help with resume building and sometimes hold mock interviews.

Top employers attend career fairs to recruit talented students who are eager to gain experience and even if you don’t get one, the practice is amazing for future opportunities. Be prepared to give a 60-second introduction that describes how you can be of value to an employer and follow up with any recruiters you meet at a fair.

4. Contact Employers

After attending the fairs, make sure you call or visit employers in your area of interest and ask about summer jobs/internships. Make sure you have that 60-second introduction together because it can make or break your chances.

If they have summer jobs available or camp/resort opportunities, really consider applying to gain communication skills. Temp agencies can also provide information on potential jobs. Be sure to follow up with employers whenever possible to arrange an in-person or telephone interview.

Good luck out there!  You can do it!

 By: Amiracle Williams-Anderson

NAME:

Ellie Kurt

EMAIL:

ekurt@mail.roosevelt.edu

ANTICIPATED GRADUATION DATE:

December 2021

HOMETOWN:

Valparaiso, IN

WHY YOU CHOSE ROOSEVELT:

It is near my family and it was affordable

MAJOR/MINOR:

History Major Fine Arts Minor

WHY YOU CHOSE THIS MAJOR/MINOR:

I love Art and History.

DREAM JOB AND WHY:

History Professor, I want to teach empathy through history, and tell stories.

EXTRACURRICULARS (CLUBS, ORGS, JOBS, INTERNSHIPS, VOLUNTEER WORK, ETC.):

Peer Mentor, History Advisory Board

FAVORITE COURSE TAKEN AT ROOSEVELT AND WHY:

European History Absolutism to Revolution

FAVORITE SPOT IN CHICAGO:

The Art Institute

CAUSE YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT AND WHY:

Mental Health and Disability, I have anxiety and depression and I work a lot of students with disabilities.

LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED:

Pride and Prejudice (2005)

The 5 Most Interesting Coffee Shops in Chicago

By Kaylin Evans

 

Whether you’re a coffee fiend like myself, want an introvert friendly hangout place, or you just can’t get work done without your cat crawling onto your laptop, then you may be in the market for a new coffee shop. And while downtown and the north side are full of them, here are some gems hiding in places you may not look on your own.

 

Sip and Savor (Bronzeville)

While this coffee shop is a chain, the Bronzeville location is a gem in the heart of a historic south side neighborhood. This black-owned business features an extensive menu of espresso infused drinks sure to help kick you into gear for that last minute thesis you’ll spent hours writing there. The store is elegantly decorated and, instantly transporting you into another world with its dimly lit, low key setting. You’ll feel so relaxed that you may doze off. Better order a Red Eye!

L Cafecito Jumping Bean (Pilsen)

You might miss The L Cafecito Jumping Bean Cafe if you didn’t know it was there. Founded in 2006, the L Cafe is stationed just past the entryway of the Damen Pink Line stop. While the indoor seating is limited, the newly built outdoor space is home to beautifully painted benches and tables for your homework doing pleasure. You could also sit and take in some sunshine while stopping to smell the beautiful flowers planted at the forefront of the establishment. And all of this can be done while snacking on one of the many healthy, organic, and/or vegan options available on the menu, from fruits and protein bars to sandwiches and soups.

Robust Coffee Lounge (Hyde Park)

This coffee lounge is truckstop chic in the best possible way. Shrouded by glass walls, the bright, open space mou’re always met with a friendly face and a multifaceted menu of quirky frozen drinks (I highly recommend The Bullfrog), your typical coffee and tea brews, and their selection of pancakes and Belgian waffles which you can top with a wide array of delicious combinations like strawberries, peanut butter, Nutella, and more. It’s easy to stay in this cafe for hours getting lost admiring the wall art, rifling through the book swap shelf, or just trying to make your way through the extensive drink menu. This iakes for a positive, uplifting feeling as you walk through the door and to the counter. There, ys a perfect, Wi-Fi-enabled place to sit for hours and work, yet a lively social environment that is perfect for just meeting up with a friend. There is truly something for everyone in this shop.

Wormhole (Wicker Park)

The best word to describe this coffee shop is funky. This classic movie-themed cafe will send you decades back with its’ 80s movie and 90s video game memorabilia. This may be your one opportunity to sip a French dark roast with E.T. himself while you work on that English paper under a decommissioned DeLorean with all your favorite Star Wars characters lined up to cheer you on.

Kusanya Cafe (Englewood)

I’m not quite sure what it is about this place that makes it the best. It could be the menu, which boasts smile-inducing names like Bernie Mac and Cheese and Tuna Turner. It could be the aesthetic–rustic, woodsey, and homey. It may very well be the baked oatmeal topped with warm cream, fresh berries, and brown sugar that escalates you to a higher sense of self on contact. But it is more likely the sense of community you can feel as you walk through the doors of the shop. Kusanya may be in a neighborhood most students have been warned against, this shop is working to fight the stigma around low-income communities by providing outstanding opportunities for both social change and personal growth. The cafe hosts weekly free yoga classes for the community and organizes events geared toward the cultivation of the minds of young black men and women. Built from a run-down liquor store by student volunteers, it is a cafe whose history is the only thing richer than its coffee.

 

These shops offer not only quality brews and beautiful scenery; they are stopping points on a journey of reclaiming neighborhoods and erasing stigmas. Supporting these businesses means supporting the future of Chicago’s underprivileged areas by helping break the negative stigmas about these neighborhoods.

NAME:

Nicola Hannigan

EMAIL:

nhannigan@mail.roosevelt.edu

ANTICIPATED GRADUATION DATE:

Spring 2021

HOMETOWN:

Chicago

WHY YOU CHOSE ROOSEVELT:

Best price, best location, great program for me.

MAJOR/MINOR:

Biochemistry/Psychology/Neuroscience

WHY YOU CHOSE THIS MAJOR/MINOR:

Everything I study is preparing me to go into medical school, I am passionate about every subject I study.

DREAM JOB AND WHY:

Neurologist / Neurosurgeon something to do with medicine and the brain, it’s just the most fascinating thing in the world to me. I read books on medicine and the brain for fun.

EXTRACURRICULARS (CLUBS, ORGS, JOBS, INTERNSHIPS, VOLUNTEER WORK, ETC.):

Membership director of CASSAC, weekly volunteer at Midwest Brain Injury Clubhouse, work at starbucks on the weekend

FAVORITE COURSE TAKEN AT ROOSEVELT AND WHY:

Neuropsychology Brain and Behavior, by far my favorite subject.

STUDY BREAK GUILTY PLEASURE:

Watching anything on MTV and probably having a snack like chips.

PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW THAT… :

I have changed schools and moved over 10 times in my life.

ADVICE FOR INCOMING STUDENTS:

Don’t freak out about everything! It all falls into place naturally, just keep a journal of your everyday to-do’s.

FAVORITE SPOT IN CHICAGO:

Down by the lake where I run, peaceful and tranquil.

CAUSE YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT AND WHY:

Fighting for people to get the medical care they need, and although outside of my field and major, I’m definitely passionate about making proper life-saving healthcare available to all without the ridiculous costs.

LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED:

Catfish – The Movie

Summer Music Festivals in Chicago

My name is Nick Vasilevski and I am writing a blog about three music festivals that take place during the summer in Chicago. I attend these festivals almost every year and have a great time. I also included the top 10 tips for attending musical festivals.

Spring Awakening (June 7-9)

Lollapalooza (August 1-4)

North Coast Music Festival (August 30- September 1)

10 Tips for Attending a Music Festivals:

• Make sure your phone is completely charged and bring a portable charger.
• If you don’t want to spend money on water at the festival (they do upcharge) buy a camelback backpack to refill your backpack at the free water refill station.
• Go with a group of friends that you trust.
• Fanny packs and small backpacks are your go to! Store personal belongings instead of holding them. Be prepared to have them checked before entering.
• Take public transportation, Uber’s and Lyft’s are very expensive on festival grounds!
• Make sure you eat before the festival and during the festival.
• Bring sun screen, the sun is beating down on your skin for hours.
• Bring cash, a lot of places don’t accept credit/debit cards.
• Wear festive clothing, be creative!
• Comfortable shoes are your best friend!

 

DANCE, LAUGH & HAVE FUN!

NAME:

Kaitlyn Greenholt

EMAIL:

kgreenholt@mail.roosevelt.edu

ANTICIPATED GRADUATION DATE:

May 2021

HOMETOWN:

Chicago Ridge

WHY YOU CHOSE ROOSEVELT:

Because I thought the location of the school would be most beneficial to me as it pertains to my major. Also because of the school’s mission in social justice and how that mission is emphasized in classes

MAJOR/MINOR:

Political Science with minors in Sociology and Writing

WHY YOU CHOSE THIS MAJOR/MINOR:

I believe that politics shapes the way the world works and is responsible for the lives of not only constituents, but people all around the world. Thus, the easiest way to make change is to immerse yourself in the political world.

DREAM JOB AND WHY:

My dream job is to be a CNN commentator because I’ll get paid for going on television and talking about my opinion regarding current events, legislation, etc.

EXTRACURRICULARS (CLUBS, ORGS, JOBS, INTERNSHIPS, VOLUNTEER WORK, ETC.):

Currently, I’m a student ambassador in the Office of Admission.

FAVORITE COURSE TAKEN AT ROOSEVELT AND WHY:

So far, my favorite course I’ve taken at Roosevelt was a class on Contemporary Urban Issues. In the class I was able to learn about a lot about urban inequality and how there’s systems in place to oppress lower-income communities. The class helped me shape my outlook on life, and has inspired me to want to base my future career around urban development.

PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW THAT… :

My favorite book genre is fantasy.

FAVORITE SPOT AT ROOSEVELT:

The library

LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED:

Captain Marvel

With summer approaching it is time to put together an awesome playlist to enjoy for festivals, beach days and walks along the Chicago River. No summer is complete without music. Catchy tunes make summertime activities all the more enjoyable by being able to belt out lyrics with friends and family. Here is a list of songs that have the potential to be the top songs of the summer.

The Jonas Brothers – “Sucker”

The return of the Jonas Brothers put people into a frenzy with many feeling nostalgic at the reunion of the boy band. “Sucker” is a lively piece of pop rock and is sure to be a tune of the summer.

Cardi B and Bruno Mars – “Please Me”

A fantastic duo that we have seen come together in the past for their hit “Finesse.” Cardi B and Bruno Mars have collaborated once again with “Please Me” being described as a mid-temp retro groove which has been climbing the charts.

Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus – “Old Town Road” (Remix)

This is a rap/country hybrid that has gained a lot of popularity probably because Billy Ray Cyrus is featured alongside Lil Nas X. This song would be great for summer road trips or nights out around a bonfire.

Marshmellow and Chvrches – “Here With Me”

For this song, EDM artist Marshmellow has teamed up with the alt-rock Scottish trio Chvrches. “Here With Me” has a catchy hook that is sure to be around come summertime.

Twenty One Pilots – “Chlorine”

“Chlorine” is off the Twenty One Pilots album titled Trench. The musical duo continues to put out powerful anthems with “Chlorine” encouraging individuals to use their creativity as a constructive outlet.

 

By: Callie Barnum