UAF Student Ambassadors

Rasmuson Library: Floors 5 and 6

2012-01-27T14:45:00.003-09:00

Remember waayyyyy back when, when I posted about the 4th floor of the Rasmuson Library?

Well, let's move onto another section of the library. The 5th and 6th floors are quiet floors. This means that patrons should be respectful of everyone on the floor and not talk above a whisper to someone near them. It's also really, really courteous if your phone rings to answer it, like in the stairwell. Just not talking in a normal voice in the middle of the floor, please!

The majority of the collection of the library exists on these two floors. (For now; there are some areas of the library that may move in the near-ish future.) Books with Call Numbers A-Pt, as well as any book that has Oversize or Ovsz in the call number are located on Level 6.

The 6th floor also has carrels for graduate students. They have to be requested through the circulation counter and are frequently all full.

The rest of the collection, Call Numbers Q-Z, are located on the 5th floor. Also located on the 5th floor is the Government Documents. One of the really neat things about the Gov Docs (this is how it's frequently referred to in library lingo), is that much of this collection is available online. There are lots and lots of old research projects that have been published throughout our country's history.

There are also study rooms located on the 5th floor. These have to be booked at the Circulation Counter on 4th floor. In order to use the rooms, you have to be studying/working on something in a group setting. They can be booked in four (or less) hour blocks.

My favorite parts of these two floors are the amazing windows and all of the plants! Lori is the keeper of the plants and she does and amazing job. We like to hope that all of the plants help increase the oxygen level, and that helps us study better.

There are many more resources that are available online through the library. We have access to SO many books available electronically. These range from materials that you may need for a research paper, to periodicals, and to even books just for fun.

We also are a member of Listen Alaska which is an electronic access to lots and lots of audiobooks that can be downloaded and listened to on a variety of devices, including your iPod or mp3 player.

Most of these online resources are also located in Goldmine - the library's online catalog system. That link will take you to a search that include a whole bunch of electronic materials involving umbrellas... It was the first thing I could think of. Most of the electronic materials will require you to log in with your university information, so make sure you keep that handy.

Back to it all

2012-01-27T10:15:00.002-09:00

The semester has begun once again!

It's been officially one week and one day since classes have started and from the students and friends I've talked to, since it's going to be a busy one.

If you are at all interested in going to UAF, be sure to visit our website (www.uaf.edu) and apply online soon!

Today, it's a bitter 38 degrees below zero and one of the other student ambassadors is giving a tour of the campus OUTSIDE right now. Yeah. We go all out at UAF.

A few years ago, our engineering department built a huge ice arch that was completely supported on its own and they are building one AGAIN! It's a pretty awesome thing to see. They are building it right in middle of the plaza so it'll be hard to miss.

Signing off.

Tune in next time!

-Dion T.

Look! It's a bird! No, it's plane!!! NO, IT'S...

2011-12-15T14:29:00.004-09:00

...finals week here at UAF!!

Oh, no! The horror! :O

Actually, finals week isn't too bad. Well, actually, it is. It IS that bad.

We are constantly running around borrowing notes, drinking coffee by the pot, checking out textbooks, taking caffeine pills, and whatever else us crazy, college students do to keep going.

However, there are somethings that we do to "study" that, in reality, isn't really doing too much. And these are common things that everybody (and I mean EVERYBODY) does. Including myself. If you catch yourself doing any of these things: stop, take a minute, breathe, and refocus on your task at hand.

#7 Photocopies, notes, and textbooks.

This happens to everyone. Thinking that by hoarding textbooks, notes, handouts, and whatever else we can get our hands on related to the topic is going to help. WRONG. You are wasting precious study time by trying to get all of this excess material together and then when it actually comes to sitting down and opening a book, you feel overwhelmed. There is too much to handle right in front of you that you feel discouraged. So, STOP, take a deep breath, and a step at a time.

#6 Highlighters

Highlighters are NOT magic, people. When we highlight, we tend to quickly skim through the reading thinking everything we see is important. So we highlight and highlight and highlight to realize that it looks like a unicorn threw up all of the colors of the rainbow on your textbook. Instead, try writing the stuff out. You'll know if you have too much information because your hand will get tired.

# 5 Homes and nests made from books.

No. This isn't going to help either. Look back at #7. You will spend more time making the perfect nest to study than actually studying.

#4 Re-reading notes.

Wrong. I'm notorious for this. We think, "Oh, man. I can study by re-reading notes and text and be on Facebook all at the same time!" Nope. Doesn't work. When you find yourself doing this, stop. And actually DO what you are studying. For me, that would be acting out scenes, working on my monologue or drawing out a potential set. If you are actually absorbing the material, do problems that are going to reinforce your knowledge.

#3 Best way to prepare for exams?

By DOING an exam. Seriously. Make sure to get a final review or maybe a final from the class before.

#2 Skip the pity-party.

Saying "I'm SO screwed" is NOT going to help your situation. So you missed class, the class is really hard, the professor hates you, your dog ate your homework, whatever. It's in the past. You can't do anything about it now. Just focus on what you are doing RIGHT NOW.

#1 Do not blame anybody else, but you!

The bottom line is is that YOU are the one who has to take the exam. Again, by trying to blame somebody isn't going to grant you a miracle from God. What you need to do is bite the bullet and crack open the textbook. College isn't pretty.

All of these tips I got from cracked.com. Take a look at their page. (Their page is HILARIOUS).

Good luck with finals, folks!

Cheers!
-Dion T.

Fine Arts Warms Students!

2011-11-07T15:28:00.013-09:00

Temperatures have dropped after a lot of fresh snow this past week. Currently we're seeing about -7 F (-21 C), which is still short-pants and skirt weather for some individuals. But for most, the body is dressed in many layers to accommodate the contrast of temperature change in going from the frigid outdoors to a toasty building and vice versa. Below zero temperatures aren't too bad in dry arctic desert areas but as soon as the wind is anything more than calm the cold atmosphere can nibble at your skin and comfortably rest in your hands and toes.

On cold days it's nice to warm up a little by checking out some of the latest displays at the University Art Gallery located in the Fine Arts Complex just left of the Great Hall in the Art Department. The University Art Gallery is an exhibition space for UAF Art students, faculty, staff and visiting artists. The gallery hosts MFA and BFA thesis exhibitions, a required component of graduating students, and constantly hosts exceptional art.

Photo from The Native Art Center at UAF Facebook page.

Currently, The Native Art Center proudly presents Monoprints and fashion STATEMENT, an exhibition in collaboration and partnership with the University of Alaska Fairbanks Native Arts Center and Printmaking Program, the International Gallery of Contemporary Art, artist and professor Melanie Yazzie from the University of Colorado, Boulder, as well as Alaska Native Artists and students, Kathleen Carlo, Erin Gingrich, Eric Hamar, Sonya Kelliher-Combs, Erica Lord, Da-ka-xeen Mehner, Junko Yanagda, Marjorie Tabone, and Denis Keogh. The show is on display until 18 November in honor of National American Indian & Alaska Native Heritage Month.

Another great way to keep busy and relieve stress during cold winter months is to not only view art, but make art! Art classes in

are not restricted to students in an Art degree program but are actually available to all UAF students. The same goes for Music and Theater classes.

I encourage you all to come in from the cold once in a while and see what's new at the University Fine Art's Gallery, and also to consider signing up for art classes next semester. Art is a fun and engaging way to experience others' ideas and creations, and to express one's own opinions and worldview. Fine Arts can keep you warm, and sometimes might just get your blood boiling. Stay warm, be inspired, and express yourself!

The University Fine Art's Gallery is open Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., and is closed on weekends and University holidays.

For more information about spring 2012 classes, search under ART to see what will be available next semester, and speak to your academic adviser about registering for class!

On My Birthday . . .

2011-11-04T14:57:00.004-08:00

By now, people in my life know I like food. {Alas, I'm still learning how to use the kitchen in my apartment.}So what I mean to say is that I enjoy eating. For my birthday this summer, I was fortunate enough to be gifted TWO homemade cakes. I have included pictures of them. The first is a chocolate, vegan wonder, made by my sister, who I obviously didn't need to go to UAF to meet :p But the second is made by my neighbor, who is from Kazakhstan!!! And it's a chocolate cheesecake.

Time at the university is all about making life awesome in little ways like this. --------->

I've gotten to know people from seriously everywhere you could imagine {that's on Earth and not Antarctica, but I do know someone who used to live in Iceland}. And I still am learning the names of all these cool villages scattered about Alaska. Oh, all the places you will go, all the lovely people to meet~!~!

Halloween isn't for candy this year.

2011-11-01T14:34:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Halloween. One of the most exciting days of the Fall 2011 semester. But I wasn't excited about dressing up and handing out candy to the trick-or-treaters who stopped by my apartment.
The Spring 2012 Course Guide became available on UAonline!! This means I am finally able to plan out my last semester as an undergraduate student at UAF.

Unfortunately for me, I didn't plan out my second major very carefully and I have to take a slightly harder path for my biology degree (in my opinion).

Courses for Spring 2012:
Organic Chemistry II
Fundamentals of Biology II
Fish and Fisheries of Alaska
Jazz @ 6
First Aid and CPR

I'm definitely looking forward to finishing up this degree and seeing what else the world has in store for me.

From Zebras to Bacons& Everything In Between: First Snow Fall

2011-10-18T10:34:00.007-08:00

In Fairbanks, the first snow fall usually happens in late September. This year, it didn't happen until the 3rd week of October! It was a rather strange experience for me.

What really amazes me is how our lives can change over night. One day I'm walking around in a light coat or sweatshirt wearing flats on my feet, and the next day I'm bundled up in a my winter jacket and warm boots. It's crazy to think that just the other day I saw green grass and now the whole town is a winter wonderland. But I think that's one of the beauties of Alaska. You never know what's going to happen, and no matter what, it's always a beautiful environment.

After my experience this fall, of enjoying the warmth a little too much and forgetting that winter was on its way, I wanted to share a few simple tips, with those that are unfamiliar with the Alaskan/Fairbanks Winters on how you can better prepare yourself for the winters and embrace the cold.

1. Make sure you have warm clothes. Long sleeves, winter jackets, boots, gloves and hats are a must! In Alaska, you can't always be focused on how good/ stylish you look. You're health is much more important than that. (Not that you can't look stylish and be warm at the same time) Also, you might want to know that Fairbanks get much colder than other parts of Alaska. It's so cold, it CAN'T snow.

2. Get winter tires! Especially if you have two wheel drive. I've known people that has been able to get away with all season tires as long as they have 4 wheel drive, but for two wheel drive, it's not a very good idea. You're also risking other peoples lives when you don't take the precautions to ensure control over your own vehicle. (hint: there's a reason for why they are called summer tires)

3. Don't procrastinate. it's really easy to wait until the last minute to get your winter clothes out or get your tires changed, but we all know when to expect the snow. So get it done before hand. As soon as it snows, everyone else will be rushing to get their winter tires on as well.

4. Drive safe. It's important to understand that the roads aren't the same during the summer and winter. Not that you need to drive 10 miles under the speed limit during the winter time, but when there's fresh snow, or if the roads are icy, drivers need to use their own discretion as to how fast they should be driving. Chances are, if everyone's driving slow, you probably should too. Also, if you slid on ice, there isn't much you can do beside trying to regain control and not hit other vehicles. So when you're coming up to a stop light, slow down in advance, and don't slam on your breaks.

5. Be active. I know it's hard, but you can't just stay in all day, everyday. Go skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or really anything. The more you take advantage of the snow, the happier you will be. The cold and snow can be depressing at times, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy your life.

These are just basic things, that I'm sure everyone already knows, but sometimes we just forget or over look things. If you have any other tips, comment below because we can always use a reminder on what winter in Fairbanks can be like.

My First Bike at UAF

2011-10-05T11:06:00.003-08:00

Like many new students to UAF, when I was a freshman I did not have my own means of transportation. I relied on friends, public transportation and my own two feet. My second year here I acquired a car and for the past two years have been able to get places relatively quickly and on my own time. However, in August while in Anchorage my vehicle became ill and I had to return to Fairbanks for the fall semester without it while I was waiting for it to be repaired.
Originally I had thought that I would be without a car for maybe a week, so I did not look into getting a bike, but after about ten days of walking(which can be very time-consuming!) to where I needed to go or asking for rides from friends I decided to keep my eye out for a bike. When a friend offered to give me one due to the neglect it received, I was grateful and appreciative. Though I did have to put some money into tuning it up (buying a pump, a couple tools and a new inner tube) it was well worth it. Being able to ride my bike instead of walking was liberating. I could now get to the places I needed to go in a fraction of the time it would take me to walk.
After about a month of biking I now have my car back and I have to admit I am using my bike less often, but do intend to keep it for summer. It's getting a lot colder and while there are people who rough it and bike all year long, a warm car is too appealing for me. I guess what I'm trying to get across is that if you don't have a vehicle and would like a relatively inexpensive way to get around, I suggest investing in a bike. Or if you do have a car and want to save some gas and get some exercise, a bike is a great alternative.

Rasmuson Library: 4th floor

2011-09-13T14:24:00.001-08:00

One of the strangest things, in my opinion, about UAF is many buildings are not built to where you walk into them on the first floor. The Rasmuson Library is no exception. I'll give a mini preview of each floor over the next few weeks. Today's floor of choice: the fourth floor. One of the most awesome facts about the Rasmuson Library is that we have the largest collection of books in Alaska! (There is another university who happens to have more square feet, but we think the books are what matter

There is a new feature to the library. We have a cell-phone tour of each of these locations I'm about to tell you about.

I work at the Rasmuson Library. I'm a student assistant, so you might find me sitting at the circulation desk located on the fourth floor! Despite the fact that 99% of our books are not on the fourth floor, this is still where you bring them to check out. In addition to the books that we have in circulation, there are also about 2000 CD's, more than 8,400 DVD's, more than 7,000 VHS tapes (if anyone watches those anymore) and tons of media equipment.

Our media equipment ranges from GPS's, to laptops (Mac [some even have Final Cut Pro] and PC), video cameras, iPads (1 and 2), point-and-shoot cameras, DSLR cameras (of the Canon brand), to more obscure (again, in my opinion) items, like record players that can record tracks to your computer and wi-fi cards.

The media desk also offers duplication services. If you need 18 copies of the skit you did in American Sign Language, and there isn't a copyright, you can pay a small fee and we'll duplicate those. Our requirements include: you must be affiliated with UAF, the item cannot have a copyright (unless you have specific documentation from the copyright holder) and all items should be academically related.

The 4th floor is awesome because it is not a quiet floor. In order to help students participate in group study, we have created two types of floors. Quiet and not-quiet. Floors 2, 5 and 6 are quiet floors, with the exception of a small portion of level 2. Levels 3 and 4 are areas where you can talk in a normal voice and not get nasty glares - unless you are really, really distracting and then we'll have to ask you to quiet down. I do remember a time when two people were practicing their German REALLY, REALLY loudly.

If you have a chance, you can meet Donner. He's a cichlid who lives by himself because he eats all of the guests we put in his tank. Careful though, he might play hide-and-seek with you.

The fourth floor is also home to about 30 public use computers. They are all connected to the internet and printers and have Microsoft Office on them. Use of the computers is free and should be used for business or school purposes, but we all know we need a break once in awhile, so we don't block entertainment. Printing is not free and requires a Polar Express card or a printing card (available for purchase for $1). Your Polar Express Card has the ability to carry a monetary balance, called Bear Bucks. They are usable to print, make photocopies or even purchase snacks around campus and town.

The fourth floor also has the Reference Desk. Reference librarians are amazing at helping people find resources they need. They have limited hours in the summer, but during the school year, they are there quite a bit more. Their fall semester hours are as follows: M-R 9a-6p, F 9a-5p, SS 1p-5p.

If you are looking for a reference material item, they are located on the 4th floor as well. Many of our reference materials are available online, so this section is continually dwindling. We are slowly gaining more best sellers to the collection and these books are also located on the 4th floor.

Nursing

2011-07-21T16:36:00.000-08:00

Hello students and prospect nursing inquires,

The medical field is an ever growing occupation making it an excellent degree field to invest in. UAF has joined with UAA to bring Fairbanks students the option to obtain their associates of nursing. Students can stay here in Fairbanks while pursuing their degree through UAA. However, being accepted into the nursing program is not the same as being accepted into the pre-nursing program.

Once all your prerequisites are achieved, a separate application must be submitted to the nursing program along with taking the nursing entrance exam.The nursing program is based on a point system. All of the prerequisite classes are worth a certain amount of points as well as the nursing entrance exam. The points earned from the test, prerequisites and GPA are added up to decide who the top candidates are for the program.

Extra points can be earned by working as an EMT or a nurses aid. The program is growing fairly quickly and many students go on to obtain their bachelors of nursing by taking an extra year of school online while working as a nurse with their associates degrees.

There are many opportunities to take advantage of here at UAF and more to come.

Research Perspective: Arctic Ground Squirrels

2011-07-15T15:10:00.000-08:00

Hola~!

It is now midday in the Drew lab and experiments have been underway since 8:00am. Tissue samples and their respective proteins are analyzed by a procedure called the Western blot. {I've since heard of methods called the Southern and Northern blots...but no Eastern blot...hmm!} I, personally, have been in what I like to term the "Operating Room". And, yes, with an arctic ground squirrel, another intern, and a graduate student.

courtesy of Jeanette Moore

You might be wondering why such a friendly student like myself would participate in animal research. First, a research lab is kept under strict supervision and all experiments must be approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). Plus, I treat the squirrels with respect and am grateful for what their amazing biochemistry teaches us.

Through the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program (ANSEP) I saw a presentation about the Drew lab. This was back in 2006, when I was a junior in high school. {Start sprouting connections early!} All these years later I'm finally an intern in the lab. This essentially means that I get paid to learn. My grant money comes from the National Science Foundation, but the opportunity was presented to me by ANSEP. By coincidence, I discovered that this lab collaborates with the Dow Neurobiology Lab in Portland, Oregon. I passed through that city this summer, on my way to a friend's wedding. I arranged to meet a neuroscientist there. We spoke of her research and graduate programs in the area.

My advice: keep asking questions and check-out all the different opportunities. You never know when one may bloom :)

Changing your mind: Choosing your future

2011-07-08T16:03:00.000-08:00

Many people have the misconception that once you choose a field of study you are stuck with it. At UAF this is not the case. UAF is an institution that promotes finding a field of study that students are passionate about, as well as setting up career choices in the future. In order to accomplish this goal students are encouraged to do what is best for them and their future.

It is perfectly okay to also decide that your original field of study is not what you actually want to pursue once you get started or even before you start to take classes. A student must ask themselves these questions: Is this what I am really interested in? Can I see myself doing this for the rest of my life? While making this decision it is important to also evaluate what you want to do in the future.

When I started off my college career I believed that my major was locked in stone. I ended up switching to a different department at the end of my sophomore year even though I was hesitant about not finishing my undergraduate degree in the time frame that I planned. Before I came to college I wanted to major in Journalism. Throughout both of my freshman and sophomore years I took the majority of my general classes while also taking a couple journalism classes. Although I have a passion for journalistic writing and delivering news I discovered it was not my passion so I decided to switch my major to something I knew I would enjoy.

When I decided to switch my major I was really interested in the Justice department and did some research to learn more about the field. There were steps that I did before making this decision which included 1) evaluating possible careers that I can gain from having a Justice degree; 2) talking to other students about their overall experiences with the Justice program; 3) setting up an appointment with a professor in the department to get an understanding of the degree requirements; 4) making sure that the justice program was one where I felt I could be challenged as well as excel; and 5) getting advised about classes I should take before completely finalizing my decision. I am now a Justice major and starting my last year in my program. It worked out that the journalism courses that I did take have also fulfilled my core requirements in the humanities section, so it actually helped with the progress of my degree by helping me become a well-rounded student.

If you don’t know what field of study you actually would like to pursue, many students start their college experience as a General Studies major. You will work with an academic adviser to complete your general requirements. The advisers will also help identify your interest and declare a major. If you don’t get anything else out of this article understand that it is okay to change your mind when it comes to choosing a major know that there are people at UAF that to help you pick a major that will lead to success.

UAF's Friday Flashbacks Year in Review

2011-07-08T11:07:00.002-08:00

Every Friday during the past year, Todd Paris uploads one of his favorite images from his years working as a photographer here to UAF's Facebook page. Here's his Year on Flashbacks in review.

A picture says a thousand words. UAF in photos...

2011-07-01T15:13:00.000-08:00

Todd Paris, UAF's amazing photographer, recently put together a montage of photos that had been used on the front page of our university website.
Check it out!

Frisbee Golf

2011-07-01T11:31:00.012-08:00

Ah summer, how we long for it through the 50 below winters and the seemingly endless classes. This summer I decided to spice up my life a little bit and take advantage of the long summer days by learning something called "frisbee golf" or "frolf". Luckily for me, my best friend happens to be an avid frolfer and a very patient person. I am now on my fourth or fifth week of training and I must say that I thoroughly enjoy it (though my friend tells me I don't swear nearly enough to be considered a serious frolfer yet).

The object of the game is to throw your frisbee into the basket in as few tosses as possible. The baskets have open sides and are metal with chains to help catch the frisbee, the UAF baskets have a big yellow band at the top so they are easier to spot. All of the 18 baskets are a par 3, meaning that you should theoretically be able to get your frisbee into the basket in 3 tosses. So far my record is 26 over par.

Discs can be purchased at most sporting good stores for around $10 each or rented from Outdoor Adventures for $3-$10 (http://www.uaf.edu/woodcenter/outdoor/rates/). There are several different kinds of discs (just as there are several different kinds of clubs in golf), putters, mid-range, distance drivers, and fairway drivers are the main ones you will find. I started out with a mid-range disc because it was more capable of putting than a driver and more capable of driving than a putter. I now have a putter, a mid-range, a distance driver, and a fairway driver. When looking to get your own discs there are several things to look at. I am not under any false belief that I can accurately explain this to you, but a really good resource that I've found is http://www.innovadiscs.com/discs/disc-comparison.html. Every disc has its own unique name and I find them all very entertaining (possibly even my favorite part of frisbee golf).

Overall, I am pretty terrible at this sport but I still have a lot of fun playing so don't be afraid to give it a shot! Even if you're awful, you will most likely have a good time! The UAF course map can be found at http://www.uaf.edu/files/src/18course.pdf and it includes the rules of the game also. Another useful link is http://www.pdga.com/ where you can look and see just how serious frisbee golf can be. I strongly recommend trying it at least once before the end of summer!

Summer Activities

2011-06-30T13:46:00.015-08:00

Residing in the interior of Alaska has its perks for those who enjoy the outdoors. The University of Alaska Fairbanks is one of the best gateways to these forms of activities.

With 36 miles of summer access trails on and around campus you don't even have to go very far to experience what the interior of Alaska has to offer.

The Chena and Tanana are two majors rivers that are easily accessible to people in the Fairbanks community, and of course with flowing water comes great possibilities for fun! It seems near everyone I've discussed this topic with mentioned floating the Chena river as one of their favorite outdoor activities in the summer.

Bicycling around Alaska is one of the best ways to take in all of wonderful sights it has to offer. Numerous biking trails on and off campus give anyone in the community the ability to safely enjoy this activity.

Camping might well be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of things to do in Alaska. There are countless choices when deciding where to camp here in the interior.

If you are more interested in rumbling around on the tundra with your ATV you will find that Fairbanks is one of the best points of egress.

If it is competitive sports that peak your interest then you would find that outdoor sports abound at UAF in the summer. Even some.... slightly less mainstream sports find a home here...

Summer in Fairbanks is not just for adventure and sports though. The farmers market gives people in the community a spectacular chance to experience the extraordinary produce that is grown locally.

All in all your choices are limitless when finding a way to delve into the great outdoors in Alaska. The University of Alaska Fairbanks as well as the city of Fairbanks offers many tools to aid your journey, not least of which the the Outdoor Adventures office here at UAF.

Such as with all things in life remember that safety comes first! Always adhere to the safety guidelines provided for any activity you wish to partake.

Now get out there and have some fun!

From Zebras to Bacon&Everything In Between: Student Jobs

2011-06-28T20:48:00.011-08:00

As we all know, college isn't free and we all take different approaches to manage our financial responsibilities. Some work multiple jobs or at a high wage job during the summer, some enroll in the military or national guard, some work throughout the year, or maybe they do something totally different, or a combination of the above. One way or another, once you become a college student the independence we like to enjoy comes with a lot of responsibilities, and managing your own finance is an important part of it.

I know what some of you are thinking... "I'll just take out student loans. no worries!" Trust me, that's not the answer. Yes, the majority of the population has student loan debt by the time they graduate from college, but just because everyone else has it, doesn't mean it's the wise choice to make. So what should you do? Taking loans out isn't a bad thing. Just have a plan on how you're going to pay it back. You should never take out more than you need. And get a job! Try to pay back your loans a little bit at a time before they start collecting interest. (it's not illegal. i promise). If you manage to pay back your loans while you're in college, that's Super Awesome! and it is possible. My roommate has been doing pretty awesome at it, she's expecting no student loan debt when she graduates.

Anyways, back to the main topic of getting a student job. Any job is great, but student jobs have some notable perks, especially for full time students.

Advantages Of Being A Student Employee

Flexibility: You get to set your own work schedule. (of course within office hours) and if you need time off to catch up on school work, your supervisor will understand and be reasonable with you.
Encouragement: I'm sure you've heard this phrase before... "You're a student first." They expect you to do good in school, or you can't work. Which means you have an internal and external motivator to do good in school.
Care: The University really values their student workers. At the Wood Center, they are really good at making student employees feel appreciated and I've heard great things about how other departments treat their student employees too. Students are almost always happy with their campus job.
Convenience: When you're a full time student, it's pretty hard trying to find time to put in hours and even the commute to work can be a hassle. well with a student job, you never have to worry about the commute since you're already on campus!
Connections: You're going to meet so many people and you will work with a variety of departments around campus. Especially if you are an Awesome person, people are going to want to help you when you need something and it can make certain class projects easier. ;)
Sense of Belonging: One of the important factors to being successful in college is that you feel that you belong here. The more involved you are, you're going to want to do better. A great way to create that sense of belonging is to work on campus. The more you know, you're going to feel comfortable being here.

I'm sure there are tons more perks to being a student employee, but we will leave it at where it is for now. I bet you're thinking, "Well how do I get a job on campus?" Let me take you through the applying process.

How To Get A Student Job

Go to www.uakjobs.com.
In the upper left hand side, you'll see Create Job Profile. Click on it.
Fill out your information.
Now, I did mine a few years ago so I'm not sure where you end up, but once you're done creating a profile get back to the HOME page of uakjobs.
Click on Student Jobs.
The uakjobs website posts jobs for all UA campuses (Fairbanks, Anchorage, Southeast, and all rural campuses) so scroll to the bottom and switch the job locations from "Any" to "Fairbanks." and click Search.
You should now be able to see all job posting in Fairbanks. So click on view, under the title and look around and see if you like any of them.
Once you've found the job you like, click on Apply for this Posting.
Sometimes there will be a few questions you have to answer before you can upload your resume, cover letter, and references.
And now it's kind of a waiting game until you hear back from the department.

Tips On How To Make Your Resume & Cover Letter Better

Have a bomb-a** resume! Seriously. I don't mean the content has to be super-duper impressive. I am no means an expert in the area, but make sure you meet at least these criteria:

-Make sure you're name is clear. and have your contact information at the top where it's easy to see.

-Proofread!! like 10 times. for reals. If you have a typo on your resume, it can cost you the job. Have other people look at it too!

-Have your work history and skills. They don't have to be lumped together but it's important that you show off what you are capable of.

-Organization! the more organized your resume is and neatly displayed the better!

-Keep it to 1page. and use the whole page!

-Don't use online templates. I've seen resume's where the person used a template and it definitely didn't look as nice as other peoples. If you find a format you really like, it's okay to use the same format, but remember you do want to stand out, in a good way.

Have a bomb-a** cover letter! Some people say the cover letter is more important than the resume, because it's the first thing the employer looks at, and if you don't make an impression they won't even look at your resume. When I write a cover letter, I try to think of it as more of an opportunity to highlight/elaborate on the top two, maybe three, reasons why I would be awesome at the job. So what are some of the basic criteria of an awesome cover letter?

-Similar to the resume, make sure your name and contact information is available at the top of the page where it's easy to find.

-Make sure to address which job you're applying for. Don't forget that! especially when the job posting has several jobs listed it's important to address what position you're applying for.

-Tell them why you want the job. What about the job interests you. Show some of your personality.

-Make sure you tell them why you deserve the job. What can you do? and be specific! give examples.

-It may seem silly, but ask for an interview at the end.

-Let's not forget to thank them at the end either.

More Tips

Here's a few more tips I thought you should know and also tips my friend Sarah Belmont, who's a student employee at Human Resources, gave me that I want to share with everyone.

Before you put someone down for a reference, make sure they know. Your reference will appreciate that. A LOT! and that way you can ask them to speak about a certain experience with or quality about you. You have to work the system to your advantage;)
Even if it's past the review date, just submit your application materials anyways. There's no rule that says you can't submit it, nor that the employer can't look at them. Chances are, the employer will review your materials.
"pooled" positions mean more than one department will have access to your application materials. On top of that, they can access to it anytime. Pool positions are often posted for departments that tend to have vacancies, frequently. which brings us to the next point
Don't be discouraged if your application is "In progress" and doesn't seem to be going anywhere. It might just be that the job isn't open just yet.
Only use professional references. Don't use family members or friends unless you really don't have anyone else.
Feel free to contact Sarah anytime. her work number is (907)474-5563. She can help you with any questions you may have about uakjobs and she can look over your resume, along with her co-workers, and help you revise it. (the Writing Center and Career Services are also great resources if you need resume help)

Good luck everyone on finding an awesome job!

From Zebras to Bacons&Everything In Between: Ice Cream Thursdays

2011-06-18T12:22:00.009-08:00

If you ever take classes during the summer at UAF, you will have the pleasure to enjoy Ice Cream Thursdays, which is my favorite activity of the summer! Actually, Ice Cream Thursdays is everyone's favorite activity!

Surprisingly Alaska is said to have the highest ice cream consumption in the nation! Whether it's sunny or rainy, Alaskans will stand in line for their ice cream.

Ice Cream Thursdays have been going on since the 70's or maybe even before! and I guess it used to only be $.15!! unfortunately that is impossible in the current economy, but we still try to keep it as affordable as possible, so it's only $1 a scoop! and trust me when I say we give out HUGE scoops! we fill up a 9oz cup , as you can see in the picture to the right.

At Ice Cream Thursdays, we try to have a variety of flavors every week! When we order our ice creams, we try to keep in mind chocolate, vanilla, sherbet, and a fun flavor! and our flavors change through out the day. As we finish one container, that's 3 gal., we bring out a new flavor. Customers that really want a specific flavor try to come as early as they can. Usually we have a line starting at least 15 mins before our opening. By the end of the day, we usually go through about 15 to 18 gal. of ice cream!

We frequently have customers ask us where we get our ice creams from. Well it's not Hot Licks, which is a local ice cream brand that's very delicious. We get our ice cream from a vendor and the ice cream comes from Denali, Anchorage and Seattle. but there's quite a variety in the brand.

btw. that's my boss Cody, in the blue, and co-worker RJ, scooping ice cream, working hard during ice cream =]

From Zebras to Bacons&Everthing in between: Wood Center

2011-06-17T15:29:00.007-08:00

Today I'm going to take you through a quick tour of my home, Wood Center. Wood Center is the "student life" building at UAF. What I mean by that is, Wood Center is where many students can get involved with extra curricular activities. but not only that, it's one of the

more common places you'll see other students hanging out at to pass time as well.

Wood Center is located in the middle of campus, so it's really easy to access. The Wood Center has a huge lounge, where students

hangout with friends or do homework in between classes, a food court where students can get breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a games area to go bowling or play a few arcade games, the student union (ASUAF), The Pub for students 21 and over, and several offices that plan activities for students to get

involved throughout the year.

So what kind of activities are available to students you might ask. Outdoor Adventure plans activities like hiking and camping trips, rock climbing classes, and many more. they also have gear rentals. L.I.V.E. stands for Leadership, Involvement, and Volunteer Experience, and they have leadership lunches, Alternative Spring Break, an annual Leadership conference, and many more activities that will give you the opportunity to further develop your leadership skills and give back to the community. The Student Orgs office is where you can find out about clubs and organizations on campus or even create your own club! Student Activities Office is in charge of providing the students with entertainments, such as comedy shows, lectures, dances and the list goes on and on. New Student Orientation is of course the office that plans everything that happens during your freshman orientation.

I call Wood Center my home because everyone that works here is like family to me. I've been working at Wood Center for over 2 years now and it has been the best work experience I've ever had! (I'll tell you guys how you can apply for awesome campus jobs in a later blog!)

Student Organizations at UAF

2011-06-14T16:49:00.008-08:00

Whether you are a leader, geek, a jock, an adventurer, a scholar, or an athlete you can find a place at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. With clubs ranging from the Chess Club to the German Club to the Latin Dance Club there is something to do at just about any waking moment of the day. Many clubs on campus utilize our vast outdoor resources to facilitate activities that are both entertaining and are a great way to exercise. Others give students an opportunity gather in a setting that allows them to engage with their fellow students and learn from their peers in a variety of
topics.

UAF also hosts a small (yet growing) Greek Letter Society. Two Fraternities and one Sorority have a chapter on the UAF Campus. These chapters (Alaska Alpha - Sigma Phi Epsilon, Nu Omega - Alpha Phi Omega, and Zeta Mu - Sigma Sigma Sigma) help foster a setting of academic success as well provide a healthy social environment.

Greek Life at UAF

Sigma Sigma Sigma became the first national sorority in Alaska when it was installed at UAF in 1993. Founded in 1898, the sorority has more than 90,000 members nationwide who share a strong commitment to sisterhood, academics and community service as part of the college experience. Sorority membership provides Sigmas with academic support and leadership opportunities.

Sigma Phi Epsilon, the first national fraternity in Alaska, was installed at UAF in 1997. The fraternity began nationally in 1901, founded on the principles of virtue, diligence and brotherly love. It is one of the oldest and most respected fraternities in the nation. Through community service, campus leadership and fraternalism, Sigma Phi Epsilon gives its members the opportunity to live a balanced life.

Alpha Phi Omega is a national, co-ed service fraternity that has set the standard for college campus-based volunteerism since 1925. The organization strives to help each individual member develop leadership skills, experience friendship on many levels and provide service to others.

For more information on Sigma Sigma Sigma, Sigma Phi Epsilon and Alpha Phi Omega, visit us online at www.uaf.edu/studentorgs/ or contact the LIVE Program (Leadership, Involvement, Volunteer Experience) at 907-474-1959.

Through Club Council the Associated Students of the University of Alaska Fairbanks (Student Government) provides the funding necessary to sustain the clubs and student societies on the UAF campus. Club Council also provides the opportunity for clubs to interact with each other in a formal setting.

Clubs must follow the guidelines as provided by the LIVE (Leadership, Involvement & Volunteer Experience) Office in order to be recognized by the University. These regulations can be located here.

Active participation in these clubs is not key to academic success, but is a tool readily available to all students who wish to expand their horizon.

As President of the Alaska Alpha Chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon, an ASUAF Senator, and member of two other student organizations I personally like to stress the benefit that participating in student organizations has on a student.

On behalf of these and other student organizations I hope to extend an open hand to all new and returning students attending classes this Fall.

Overview from a Recent UAF Grad

2011-06-14T12:02:00.003-08:00

I am Bronwyn Harrod, a recent graduate from the Chemistry Department here at UAF, as well as an Honors Program alum. I attended UAF for 5 years, living with my parents for my first year of college, and moving to campus for the remaining period. I was simply a dorm resident for that second year of college life. For my final 3 years at UAF, however, I became a Residence Life Peer Mentor; for this position, I lived with, tutored, and gave advice to the freshmen of UAF. I will be the first to tell you that my time at UAF, in the Honors Program, and as a Fairbanks resident have really helped to set my life’s course, and set me up for graduate study at another major university.

UAF is a nationally ranked school for engineering and the sciences, and has given me the basis I needed to be ready to pursue my future in academia. The opportunities here are unlike those available in the vast majority of other schools, and for a price that is affordable to boot! I was involved in research here before I even graduated high school! This experience started my path that led to further one-on-one research with UAF faculty mentors, a couple of research internships at a national top tier school (Texas A&M University-College Station), three second-author publications in scientific journals, and ultimately to my acceptance to the Chemistry Ph.D. program at the University of California-Davis.

Being in the Honors Program accelerated my progress; it gave me the chance to be creative, independent, and self-motivated, all the while providing the resources and guidance that I needed. The friends I made through the Honors Program were by no means the least of the benefits. We took several classes together, and would help to push each other through our rough spots and hard times, with respect to both school and life. It was so nice to have a group of people to count on, right from the start. We used the Honors House – our own program facility – for everything from a study area for our all-nighters together, to a movie night relaxation spot, to a dinner party venue, to a haven for sound advice. Without these aids, I honestly wouldn’t be where I am today, nor have the success that I have experienced.

Of course, one also has to at least like the area in which one is living for the years of college; I found Fairbanks to be perfect for me. The people here (fondly referred to as “Fairbanksans” or “Fairbanksians”, depending on to whom you talk) are friendly and helpful. This is a town of people who are simultaneously dependent on one-another and independently self-sufficient. For example, many Fairbanksians live in dry cabins, driving their own water to their house, hunting or catching their own meat, growing their own vegetables, etc. However, as soon as their car dies, or their heater cuts out for no reason in the middle of a 20 to 40 below winter, or they find themselves without a sponsor for a big school program, someone is always there to help at the drop of a hat. And yes, I am completely speaking from experience… Besides, where else can you take a photo of yourself in shorts and a tank top in front of the university temperature sign, which is reading -38 degrees?? Or ride an ice sculpture of a polar bear, or “Nanook”, in the dead of winter? Or have 20 hours of daylight as you are studying for Spring semester finals? This town, this campus, this environment…. all so unique! Or should we say UNIQUELY AWESOME! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at blharrod@alaska.edu. I would be more than happy to help in any way I can!

Living off Campus

2011-06-10T16:45:00.003-08:00

For those of us living off of the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, there is something to experience. Living off campus means that bills have to be paid and a wage has to be earned to pay those bills. For me this is a perfect lifestyle because it encompasses both student life and living the true Alaskan experience.

A job is a necessity to pay the bills, but a balance is needed to keep life running smoothly. I choose to work on campus, which enables me to walk easily from work to school which is very convenient. Something that sometimes comes with living off campus is a roommate.

Roommates are something that are hard to escape, even when living off campus. The costs associated with living off campus can be expensive but with roommates you can cut them down and save money. Having a roommate doesn't mean you have be best friends, but like in a dorm room, it does mean you will have to get along. Now there are also a plethora of awesome things about roommates from sharing the food bill to carpooling to hanging out. My roommate and I are both students, and we carpool to save money and gas. We also split the food bill which is nice because that leaves us extra money to save or use for other things. A roommate can greatly help living and working off campus which includes carpooling.

Transportation is one of hardest parts of living off campus; there is no limitation to how involved you can be on campus, it just takes a little more effort. Living on campus gives you the advantage of finding events while hanging around, something that cannot be accomplished while living off campus. Living off campus means that if you want to attend Starvation Gulch, than you would have to arrange to get to campus somehow. Some students notice that they feel less involved when living off campus, but it does not have to be that way. You are still just as much of a student as those that live on campus, and you can equally involved in on-campus activities, it only takes a little extra planning.

I like living off campus because it gives me the opportunity to experience Alaska in the way I pictured it. It makes me feel that I am being immersed in all that Fairbanks has to offer. I am also a student and I like what UAF has to offer, so I make sure that I am on campus for the events and activities that interest me. I live in a dry cabin which means I have no running water, (yup) no shower or toilet. I have a sink but I have to bring all of the water I drink and use for cooking to my cabin from the water station. I shower on campus which is useful because its another reason for me to go to campus. The outhouse is something that adds to the Alaskan experience and it definitely different from other parts of the U.S. Living in a birch forest, far from campus, in a dry cabin is what I imagined I would be doing when I got to Alaska and it does not disappoint; it takes a dream of mine and solidifies it, turning a childhood dream into reality.

From Zebras to Bacons&Everything In Between: Planting Day

2011-06-02T15:16:00.026-08:00

On June 1st, UAF had it's annual Planting Day. Since I work on Campus during the summer, I have participated in planting day for now 3 years! and it's actually one of my favorite days on campus =]

So you may ask "What is planting day?" UAF has tons and tons of planters all over campus. Some wonderful people on campus get together and organize Planting Day, and basically, UAF staff and faculty members, and even community members, volunteer their time to fill the planters with tons of plants so that when students return in the Fall, there will be lots of pretty flowers.

As simple as it seems, a lot of planning is involved in such a large scale event, especially one that relies on volunteers to do the majority of the work. The sad part is, besides the people that work hard to make it all happen, no one else knows how much work goes into it. But they definitely do a wonderful job being super organized!

When the volunteers get to the planter, everything they need is ready for them. All the plants are delivered with tags on them so it is easy to identify each plant. A chart of how the plants should be planted is also provided. The Charts are super easy to understand too. They use several different icons to identify each plant, and also tells the volunteers how far apart each plant should be.

Anyways, a bit about my experience with the planting this year... As other years, I planted flowers with my Wood Center family. I was the designated chart reader this year, meaning I gave directions to everyone in the crew what to plant where. and I must say i did a pretty good job =] The whole experience was great because we had such a blast planting and just having a chill time. Our 2 hour planting experience consisted of "stealing" flowers from other planters (when we didn't have enough), watching babies act silly, digging in and getting dirty, and of course, tons of laughter! It was a nice little break form all the office work we do cooped up inside our offices. It was like the family became even closer =] Oh and I should mention how nice it was outside on Planting Day! It was a perfect day for gardening! I definitely got my tan on =]

Oh, a little tip for anyone that's thought about planting for the first time, never attempt planting in your shoes. I had my comfy TOMS on and as soon as i stepped on the dirt, I got some in my shoes =( but then I took my shoes off and it felt awesome!

Hopefully you'll all notice the wonderful flowers that are blossomed in the Fall!

ASUAF Summer Committee

2011-05-31T12:43:00.006-08:00

The Associated Students of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, or ASUAF, is YOUR Student Government. It is our function to represent and act on behalf of the students of the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

ASUAF is currently in its summer session which hosts the Summer Committee. This committee is tasked with the same responsibilities as the regular senate, i.e to "represent and act on behalf of the students of the University of Alaska Fairbanks."

That said if have you questions about your student government, or if you have an idea as to how the ASUAF Summer Committee might best fulfill its role let the committee chair know.

Jennifer Chambers is serving as the 2011 ASUAF Summer Committee Chair she can be reached by the following methods:

Phone - (907) 799-2905
E-mail - Jschambers@alaska.edu

UAF Honors Program

2011-02-16T11:08:00.003-09:00

For students who are looking for that extra experience or challenge in college, the Honors Program is a great place to look. Not only does the "Honors" designation look great on a diploma, but it links a small group of students from a variety of disciplines together.

The Honors Program is housed in the Honors House - imagine that! It's near main campus, and it provides a great study space. The offices of the director and program assistant are right inside the house, and their doors are always open to students. The house has a main "living room" with multiple computers, tables, and very comfortable couches. Smaller study rooms, kitchen, laundry room, and bathrooms (with showers) are all available for student use.

*Note* The Honors Program is great for students who live off campus. Laundry, showers, and storage lockers are all free!! Free printing is also available for Honors students at the Honors House.

The House acts as a classroom, study location, hang out area, and yes, sometimes a short afternoon nap zone. :) The Honors Student Council- which arranges events, raises funds for outings, and participates in community service events like National Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Week- holds meetings in the house once a week. A bbq starts off the fall semester, and a student-run luncheon wraps up the spring semester. Free food can also be found at the House throughout the year!

True, "Honors" may sound a little nerdy, but being in Honors really isn't all that different from being a typical student. Students are required to take a certain number of honors credits and complete a capstone project (like a thesis) to graduate in the program. But the capstone project is designed to be something the student creates on an individual basis. For example, I'm creating an informational magazine about St. George Island in the Bering Sea, which is where I worked for US Fish and Wildlife this past summer! I love that place, and now my work revolves around that enthusiasm!

Honors students come from all over and have all sorts of awesome stories. You can hear quite the tales (and create some of your own) by spending time at the Honors House! Outdoorsy activities have traditionally been favorites among Honors students, including a trip down to Denali National Park for its Winterfest celebration every year.

Think you're interested in Honors? In order to qualify for Honors as an incoming freshman, students must have a GPA of at least 3.6 and a minimum ACT composite score of 27 or minimum combined SAT score of 1820. Requirements for current college students can be found at http://www.uaf.edu/honors/information/contact A link to the application, which is separate from the general UAF application, can also be found on this page.

If you have questions about Honors, I suggest contacting myself or anyone with the program. We're always happy to answer questions! Joining Honors has definitely been one of my best decisions at UAF!

Facebook and the University of Alaska Fairbanks

2011-02-14T14:49:00.000-09:00

How many of you use facebook? Come on now, don't deny it ;-)
Facebook has become an integral part of my life. I keep in touch with my family, find out about events going on around campus and the community, learn that my best friend has a new boyfriend and get homework help from friends. When I was a freshman and living in the residence halls, the posters were great at sparking my interest in events, but facebook was my constant reminder that they were coming up.
I strongly suggest following UAF on facebook if you aren't already to learn about events that are coming up on campus and for reminders about deadlines. One of our awesome campus photographers is always posting new pictures that relate to life in Fairbanks too. Students can tag UAF and promote their activities as well.

Beyond the main University page, many departments also have facebook pages. Here are a few to check out:

I doubt that is all of them, but you can definitely learn a lot of information from these facebook pages.

Summer @ UAF

2010-12-09T16:42:00.000-09:00

Summer Sessions and Lifelong Learning is a part of UAF that provides even more opportunities to take classes during the year. And while their title says "summer" they also do amazing 2 week sessions. That's right. You can take a 3-credit class in just two weeks! These sessions are called Wintermester and Maymester. It's a great opportunity to take some of the core classes that you just can't seem to find time for.

Just after the first of the year, students can come back to classes early and start Wintermester. Not all the classes are core one, there are some more interesting ones, such as Electric Car Conversion; Your Mind and How to Use It and Athabascan Beadwork, Tufting and Porcupine Quillwork.

And, after the end of spring semester, MAYmester comes quick! MAYmester is a great way to start of summer sessions. The summer consists of a 12-week semester (just like the normal year) and 2 6-week sessions, which are accelerated semesters. This past summer I took both semesters of Anatomy and Physiology in just 12 weeks! It was intense, but I would do it again. You can see some pictures of our lab on this page.

If you are an out of state student, there's good news for you! Summer Sessions charge in-state tuition for everyone during the summer! Summer classes can help you graduate sooner, or just provide a time to take a fun class that you many not have had time for during the school year. Another great thing is that summer is part of the current school year, so no tuition hikes will happen yet. It's the last opportunity to get the cheapest tuition at UAF.

If you aren't a UAF student, no worries! "Summer@UAF offers open enrollment so you do not need to be formally admitted to the university to register for classes. If the course(s) you decide to register for has prerequisites you will need to provide transcripts or test scores that show you have met the prerequisites." (FAQ Page)

Registration for WINTERmester opens when Spring Semester registration starts - early November. And Maymester and Summer Sessions open toward the end of February. I always recommend signing up early because some classes are very, very popular and fill up quickly.

In my opinion, it is never too early to start planing for the rest of your college plans.

Lydia: On living on campus

2010-11-19T11:00:00.004-09:00

UAF Student Ambassador, Lydia talks about living on campus.

Do you have questions for Lydia? Post them in the comments section here or visit http://www.uaf.edu/ambassadors/student_ambassadors/lydia/ to send her a message.

Intramurals

2010-11-09T16:00:00.006-09:00

One thing that I look forward to every week is my intramural soccer game. It may be because I love playing soccer, or it might be because I enjoy getting to hang out with my teammates. Either way, it’s a great way to de-stress, relax, work out, and have some fun. The best thing about UAF intramurals is that you get to meet new people, learn new sports, or play your old favorites.

Broomball is another awesome intramural sport at UAF. If you’ve never seen a broomball game, check it out! To me, it's a combination between soccer and hockey. It's played on the ice, without ice skates, and you use a broomball stick to hit the ball. The ball is a small version of a soccer ball. There’s lots of sliding and falling, but somehow it’s addicting.

If these don’t sound like your type of fun, there’s plenty more intramurals to choose from. There’s bowling, volleyball, flag football, dodgeball, floor hockey, lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, basketball, and water polo. Which brings me to another point – if you’re a water polo spectator, there’s a nice, warm, relaxing sauna-like room that you can sit in to watch, if that’s your cup of tea.

Or, if the whole team sport idea doesn’t work out for you, there’s a bunch of cross-country skiing trails right next to UAF. I can literally walk a minute outside of my on-campus apartment, strap on my skis, and hit the trails.

That's one thing I enjoy about UAF - you can be as active as you want to be. There's a lot of different options (other than the gym) to choose from, and you can have a lot of fun while staying in shape.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner - Alaska Nanooks mascot legacy is full of fun and sweat

2010-11-08T08:42:00.001-09:00

I stumbled upon this article in the local paper, The Fairbanks Newsminer this morning and thought it was worth sharing. In summary, it's the true story of our amazing Alaska Nanook mascot and the people behind the costume.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner - Alaska Nanooks mascot legacy is full of fun and sweat

Enjoy!

Elections!

2010-11-04T09:34:00.002-08:00

Last Monday I happened to find out that Lisa Murkowski was speaking at UAF. It was an informal gathering at the Great Hall, and students and community members had a chance to talk to Murkowski in a casual setting.

Murkowski was running a write in campaign against Republican Nominee Joe Miller and Democrat Scot Mc Adams. Elections are done with now, and looks like Alaskans wrote in Murkowski. The write in ballots have not been counted up yet, but Murkowski still has a good chance of winning a write in campaign!

The last time a write in campaign was won was in 1954 by Strom Thurmond. I think if Alaska wasn't the small community that it is, Murkowski's write in campaign may not have been as successful. In my opinion it is easier to reach out to 600,000 people in Alaska vs 36,961,664 people in California!

This "small community" atmosphere was very apparent in the room as Murkowski answered questions. Students asked questions mostly about issues pertaining mostly about health care and the university. At the end of the question-answer session Murkowski said she had to catch a flight soon, but those who did not get to ask questions could walk with her. This was very different from the huge rallies I see on TV where the candidates seem unapproachable. I would like to point out that Murkowski is not alone in her approachable ways, many other Alaskan politicians are very approachable.

Ive been in Alaska only 3 years and have had a chance to meet and talk to Senator Begich, Murkowski, late Senator Stevens, Governor Sean Parnell and the previous US Secretary of Commerce. Many of these meetings have been due to my involvement in Students who Enjoy Economic Thinking (SWEET!) an econ club on campus which organizes seminars with economists and politicians for UAF among other awesome econ acticities like a book club and even a scholarship program. It is a great way to get involved and be active and you really get to benefit from the fact that this is a small community that has a ton of opportunities for everyone!

CollegeWeekLive This Week!

2010-11-02T16:58:00.002-08:00

CollegeWeekLive FALL
November 3rd & 4th, 9 AM - 10 PM Eastern

Meet the University of Alaska Fairbanks online at CollegeWeekLive FALL on November 3rd and 4th from 9 AM to 10 PM Eastern.

Sign Up Today!

Visit our virtual booth to chat live with University of Alaska Fairbanks admissions reps about topics such as admissions, financial aid, campus life, and more!

Natural Resources, Sciences, and Fisheries Career Day

2010-10-28T10:18:00.011-08:00

Yesterday was an important day for those UAF students trying to devise a plan for next summer. UAF hosts a career day for students interested in natural resources and natural sciences. Federal, state, and private employers are invited to campus to talk to students about seasonal, full-time, and internship opportunities.

Employers from all over Alaska (and some from the Lower 48) speak with students about potential jobs, benefits, resume advice, and schooling. It's a great opportunity for students to meet people who were once in the same boat and know how exhaustive the job search can be! The representatives are more than happy to answer any questions, and they like seeing students' initiative to join them in conversation.

UAF always strives to give students chances to connect with employers. UAF's Career Services also sets up job shadow opportunities so students can see what a "day on the job" would be like. Check out the Career Services website at http://www.uaf.edu/career! It's packed with helpful information for students.

Though I haven't gotten a job specifically through this event, I've made connections to federal agencies like the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, and United States Geological Survey that have set up my field jobs. Getting your name out there is the most important part, and it's pretty easy to do here in Fairbanks!

Some October Events!

2010-10-21T14:24:00.000-08:00

Hi! We're a month into the school year and we've had some amazing events. We also have some awesome events coming up. There is bound to be something that you're interested in, and while I'm talking just about this year, events like these happen every year!

If you are 21+, our pub on campus has a smoke-free environment with entertainment almost nightly. So far this month, we've had a poetry slam, a 90's hip-hop dance, Panopticon (a band), pub trivia, and an open mic night! Coming up at the pub this month still includes karaoke night, a Halloween Bash and more fun nights! It's a fun place to meet up with friends and have some tasty nachos.

The Student Activities Office has events almost weekly! This month they've had a comedian, movies that haven't come out on DVD yet, and a huge dance! Events to come include a Halloween Carnival, a concert (Tobacco) and a Thrill The World event! Most of these events are really cheap, because they know we're college students.

If you are into the sports scene, there have been hockey and volleyball games as well as swim meets! It's fun to watch the Nooks play and cheer on people you might have a class or two with. There are more sporting events to check out as well. One of my friends has started a club to help influence students to get to sporting events! It's called the Nanook Pride Club. For every hockey game you attend, you get one point. Every basketball and volleyball game: two points! For every meet (swimming, rifle, running and skiing): three points! The points accumulate to win prizes! There is rumor that there will be a drawing at the end of the season with the people tied for the highest points to win an Alaska Air ticket!

There have been guest lecturers, such as Patch Adams, plays and many, many other awesome events that have occurred this month. If you're ever bored, it's probably your own fault :)

Opportunities at UAF

2010-10-20T12:37:00.004-08:00

Imagine you've just graduated from college. You're at an interview for what could be your dream job, and the interviewer says, "show me some of the work you've done in the past".

So what if during your college experience you never did get the time to do an internship; what do you show the interviewer?

This is where the many opportunities at UAF come into play. I can't begin to emphasize how wonderfully the classes at UAF tie into one another. Especially if your a business student like I am. The business program may be the smallest at UAF, but it certainly packs some punch when it comes to preparing its students for the "real world". Once a student reaches their upper level classes, they tend to all tie into one another so well, that projects from one class can be applied in another. This is exactly what I am able to do.

Currently I am a business student in my senior year. I am fortunate enough that in three of my classes I am able to tie together my projects, and create one larger project, adding to my portfolio that I will be able to show potential employers one day.

For example, in my Small Business Management course I am putting together a business plan on a wedding planning business. Of course everyone got to choose what they were interested in working on; my interests just happen to lie in opening a wedding planning business one day. So I am working on putting together a business plan for what I hope one day will become reality.

Then, in another one of my classes, Advertising, Sales, and Promotion, I was able to put together an advertising campaign for the hypothetical business. And, last but not least, for my Management of Information Systems class I was able to put together a website for the hypothetical business. All these projects from different classes may have individually have been a bunch of random little projects. But since these upper level classes tie together so well, I was able to tie my individual projects into one larger project, that I will one day be able to present as part of my portfolio.

Check out some of the work that has been done so far....

http://www.akweddingplanning.webs.com/

Winter is Here!!!

2010-10-18T12:32:00.002-08:00

The snow is finally here and it is here to stay. Old man winter has come and the winter activities will be commencing with much anticipated vigor this year. There are all kinds of outdoor activities to experience that everyone is sure to enjoy; whether your passion is skiing, skating, ice-climbing, mountaineering, sledding, snow machining, curling, hockey, watching the northern lights, or simply playing in the snow with friends. Fairbanks is everyone's oyster that is ready to be discovered and opened.
Winter is the best part of the alaskan experience and everyone should take advantage of it to its fullest potential, but don't forget to do your homework first ; ).

Journalism field experience

2010-10-01T11:55:00.005-08:00

It wasn't an ordinary Thursday, as I woke up at 4:45 am to bike to campus. Who in their right mind would wake up at that hour? Believe me, it was pretty painful. But if I hadn't done it, I would have missed out on a day of army training exercises at Fort Greely, which is about a 2 hour drive from Fairbanks.

My News Reporting & Writing professor had told my class, and many other journalism classes, about an opportunity to "embed" with a unit of the 1-25th Stryker Brigade of Fort Wainwright. While 2 fellow journalism students and I had been told that meant we'd follow the 5-1 Cavalry on a scenario set up like a real war situation, we ended up getting a tour of training exercises. It included riding up part of Donnelly Dome in a Stryker (see above image with UAF student Faith Minnema on the right), learning about the gunnery range and riding in a Humvee behind a firing Stryker, meeting some Afghan men who help out with scenarios, and watching the medical unit take care of a staged emergency medical situation. What a day!

UAF's departments try to get students out "in the field" as much as possible, as I've witnessed through both the biology and journalism departments. The experiences I've had have given me many photography and story opportunities for which I'm grateful. The skills I've learned and used are invaluable for the future. I'm already looking forward to my next unique field opportunity!

Check out the UAF Journalism site! www.uaf.edu/journal

James in the Outdoors

2010-09-16T21:48:00.000-08:00

James Smith, senior wildlife biology major talks about taking advantage of his time in the outdoors.

Winter is coming...

2010-09-16T14:49:00.001-08:00

While today's temperatures are supposed to have a high around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, we are getting close to freezing at night. This morning, we were almost at the point of frost on the windshields, and I suppose, depending on your home-in-Fairbanks, there may have been frost this week. This is just one way I know winter is coming in Fairbanks.

Two weeks ago, classes started. I can't believe two weeks of classes have already passed and that the next 10 weeks will go by much faster than I anticipate. My classes are interesting and I don't dread any of them. This is just one way I know winter is coming in Fairbanks.

90% of the deciduous trees have changed from the summer green to autumn oranges, reds, browns and yellows. The putrid scents of the Alaskan wild roses and other plants preparing for winter are upon us. I love all of the seasons because the scenery always changes too. This is just one way I know winter is coming.

Soon, all of the amazing summer colors spread among the flower beds across campus will be prepared for winter. This is just one way I know winter is coming.

Starvation Gulch, a Nanook Tradition, is next weekend, September 24-25. Every year that I've been in Fairbanks, some snow has fallen during this weekend. The schedule for this awesome weekend looks like this:

Friday, September 24th

Nappy Roots Concert - 8:00pm

SRC Latenighter 10:00pm - 1:00am

Saturday, September 25th

Bonfire Set-up - 8:00am - 2;00pm

Blue/Gold Hockey Game - 6:05pm

Bonfires 10:00pm - 2:00am

Pizza&Police / Nanook Theater 12:00am

Every year that I've been in Fairbanks, some snow has fallen during this weekend. This is just one way I know winter is coming.

The start of the Alaska Nanook Hockey season starts during the weekend of Starvation Gulch with the Blue/Gold game. Other athletics have also started, which brings on the Alaska Nanook Pep Band. I'd have to say I love watching Alaska Hockey the most and so, that is just one way I know winter is coming.

All of these hint that we'll soon be below freezing temperatures during the day, and that reminds me of things I need to do before the snow actually falls.

I need to make sure my car is ready to survive -40 Fahrenheit temperatures. I need to make sure that all of my accessory heaters I plug in are functioning. If you've never had your car here in the winter, you should definitely make sure you get an engine block heater, an oil pan heater and a battery blanket/heater. These heaters help keep parts of your car warm and makes it easier to start after sitting for eight hours at really, really cold temperatures. It is also pretty important to make sure all of your vehicles fluids are clean and full. The last thing to prepare your vehicle for a winter in Fairbanks is to put studded tires on. Studded tires help find friction on icy roads, but they do not make you super man. If you are driving around Fairbanks in the winter, don't expect your studded tires to be the fix; please slow down and pay even more attention to everything.

Another thing I need to do is find all of my winter layers. It is extremely important to stay warm and dry in the winter, as being wet will make you colder faster. The best layers to wear closest to your skin are materials that will wick away the water. Materials such as polyester and silk are good to put against the skin.
The next layer should keep you warm; wool and fleece are good options. The outer layer should be something that is waterproof and breathable.   Weather.com has a good article on layering. Outdoor Adventures, here at UAF, is also a good resource.   Hats, gloves and warm footwear will keep most of the heat that easily escapes closer to your body.

One last thing to note, if you are on the UAF campus and notice that there is an unsafe condition, please do not ignore it. Facilities Services only has so many people watching and needs our help to ensure campus safety. Please report those areas and they will get someone on the scene quickly.

Things I look forward to during the winter:
- dark skies that allow the Aurora Borealis to be seen
- hockey games (both playing and watching)
- skiing
- sledding
- ice skating
- ice sculptures
- hot cocoa
- winter break and vacations to warmer places

A New School Year

2010-09-09T12:16:00.000-08:00

Wow! September 2nd was the first day of classes at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, but that's not the day students arrived! New Student Orientation started on Sunday, August 29th this year and was 4 fun, information-filled, new connections-made days! This year I participated in New Student Orientation as an Orientation Leader (for the 3rd fall semester in a row) and I met wayyyy too many people to count or even remember names, but it was totally worth it.

I'll give you a brief overview of what I did this week, but you can always click here for the detailed schedule and more information for the next semester when it becomes available.
Sunday: Rev-It-Up! is an event that occurs on the Sunday before classes start. It is a one-stop "shop" to get your room key, your student ID (called your Polar Express Card at UAF), set up a dining plan, talk to Health and Counseling, Parking Services, the Post Office and the Office of Information Technology (OIT). If you are moving into a residence hall, teams of wonderful volunteers will move all of your stuff for you while you get things situated inside :D
There are also break-out sessions for both the students and parents, campus tours and lots of people! Sunday evening is the Orientation Kick-Off. The Kick-Off is lots of fun. All the new students get broken into groups with an Orientation Leader who will help them throughout the next few days as well as being a resource for the rest of the year!
There were tons of events, but I'll leave that up to you to discover when you come to UAF

Earth Day Fair

2010-04-25T15:06:00.005-08:00

Being in academia is fulfilling in itself but its also important to me to participate in making sure UAF is working to be an environmentally sustainable campus. Every year the "Sustainable Campus Task Force in coalition with a variety of other student and community groups participate in the Earth Day Fair which is held on the roof of the Lola Tilly Commons.

There is free music, free food and a variety of educational tables to check out such as Cold Housing Climate Research, Sierra Club, and The Northern Alaska Environmental Center. There were also tables teaching about efforts on campus such as the composting and recycling done at Facility Services. There is also a recycled art contest.

There were free burritos and awesome bands such as Work, The Good Daze, and Extra Tuffs.

There were all kinds of cool things to do such as plant seeds and hop on a bike to help power the band.

It was a beautiful sunny day with lots of socializing and discussing important issues about the natural environment while making UAF a better place.

Student Clubs and Events

2010-04-16T14:14:00.005-08:00

~So Much to Do~

Wow! What a busy time of the year-Spring! The sun has returned and the snow is melting. The intensity of finishing end of the year papers, presentations and projects is in full force.

Along with making sure all my lose ends are tied with my 6 classes I also have been busy with several extracurricular activities. UAF has a diverse range of clubs events, and activities to keep every type of student busy all year long.

My classes are important to me but the hands-on organizing and participation in events and organizations gives me extra life experiences to help prepare me for the "real world".

All year long I have been organizing and holding events in an effort to educate the campus community about the environmental and human health impacts of our energy use and consumption. This has kept me VERY busy. This club is called UAF Beyond Coal.

This weekend April 17th and 18th another one of my clubs Righteous Ladies rebelling will be performing The Vagina Monologues at the Schaible Auditorium.

Next weekend I have designed an event with another one of my club's Pi Sigma Alpha. It will be hosted by Campus Progress and other cool speakers will be there like Evon Peter. This event is part of a larger tradition at UAF- Spring Fest!!

It is all very exciting and even if you are not interested in these clubs UAF is sure to have something that entertains your particular interests...and if it doesn't you can become a student leader and start your own club in just a few simple steps.

As the semester ends...

2010-04-16T11:11:00.000-08:00

Wow, I can't believe we are three weeks away from the end of the semester. I don't know about the rest of the student body, but I'm not anticipating too much more stress! There are just a couple of short papers to write, a couple of finals and a couple of presentations and I'm done!

Aside from school, there is one last campus tradition that is approaching: SpringFest!
Springfest is a 3-day event that starts with a campus barbecue, then there are service projects, a field day, mud volleyball, I think lotta-no-booza occurs this weekend! It's a fun three day weekend! I'm looking forward to taking lots of pictures and enjoying all of the events

Paying for College

2010-03-23T12:08:00.002-08:00

So at some point in a college student's life, whether it is at the start of one's college education, or already in the midst of their studies, there might come a time where the financial worries of going to college overwhelm the worries of studying for the next big exam. I found myself to be in such a debacle.

Ironically, when I first started out in college, the idea of financial aid never much phased me. I had a scholarship, and I always assumed that my parents would be able to cover the rest. That's what they're there for, right?

After going to college (at that time a different university) for about a year, it was time for a serious wake-up call. I'll say, once one is out on their own, not pampered at home, having all expenses paid for, the value of money seems to become oh so greater. I can't even begin to describe what a miser I turned into. It was then that I made the decision to transfer schools, to one that offered a more affordable cost of attendance, while offering excellent value.

Seeing as I am now a Student Ambassador at UAF, it is safe to say that my final stop, concerning my college education, is UAF. I couldn't be happier with the decision I made to come here (I am a proud Nanook). Ah, but then the issue of financing my education, even at a more affordable school became a bit of an issue.

Here's the deal... I have such wonderful parents, who have supported me all through college (encouraging me and financially supporting me), that they decided they wanted me to be debt free by the time I graduate. This means no loans- period. Yes, you read right; I have never taken out a loan of any kind to support my college education. However, as one might imagine, money had become tight. I can't even begin to explain how LUCKY I was when the Post 9/11 GI Bill became effective on August 1,2009.

Although the benefits of this bill originally belonged to my father (who is in the Army), he transferred his benefits to me (military can choose to transfer their benefits of this bill to their dependents). Thanks to my father and this bill, my entire education is financed through the VA. My tuition and fees are paid for, I receive a housing allowance, and a yearly books and supplies stipend of $1,000. It is a rush of relief not having to worry about paying for my education.

Overall, I just want others to know about this latest and great form of financial aid. If you want to read more about it you can visit:
http://www.uaf.edu/veterans/benefit_programs/
or
http://www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/CH33/Post-911.htm

Other than that, I hope that if you didn't at least learn a lesson by reading about my past financial experiences, that you might have learned about a form of financial aid that may be of use to you.

Anne :-)

Conferences

2010-03-17T11:04:00.001-08:00

There is probably a conference going every day of the year minus major holidays! They are a great place to meet people, gather new ideas and even experience a different location. Even my boyfriend is in Florida (lucky!!!) at a conference for work for computer training.

The most current conference in my future is the one I'm planning! It is a conference for all the chapters of Alpha Phi Omega in Section 8! This includes brothers from the Universities of Alaska Anchorage and Juneau, University of Washington, Seattle University and University of Oregon, who are all coming to Fairbanks for a weekend of leadership, friendship and service! Recently we had a region conference, which unfortunately is just the chapters in our section at the moment. You can read about that one here!

Planning a conference is slightly more stressful than just attending one. My committee of two of my brothers and an adviser, have worked since the semester started to get this conference rolling. I've also been in direct contact with our region director who has been a HUGE help.

We've had to look at finding flights that students can afford (pretty much only Alaska Airlines flys from the rest of the United States between September and May), finding housing for all of these brothers and associate members - both with brothers from my chapters and at a hotel for the staff (about 15 brothers from the other schools and 4 staff members), organizing meals, activities and transportation for everyone involved (all in all, about 32 people), and registering and budgeting the registration costs. And we are still keeping up with our day to day lives and other chapter related issues. It's been a stressful couple of months, but we'll see it all come together this weekend!

I'm super excited and I'll post pictures and talk a little more about what happened next week!

Have a good Saint Patrick's Day!!!
Mercedes

Governor's Cup 2010

2010-03-05T17:58:00.001-09:00

Hey Everyone!
As a part of the Nanook Traditions: Winter Carnival, the Governor's Cup was played. The Governor's Cup is a hockey tournament between the Alaska Nanooks and University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves. I can't remember how many years its been played, but I do know that the Nanooks won the cup this year after losing for the past three years.

Here are two of my brothers from Alpha Phi Omega with the Governor's cup.

This year, Alpha Phi Omega teamed up with the Student Activities Office (SAO) and ASUAF (The Associated Students at the University of Alaska Fairbanks) to fund a motor coach to Anchorage to watch the first game played at the Sullivan Arena. For $30, students got a ride to Anchorage and back, a t-shirt, a ticket to the game and noisemakers. A pretty sweet deal to cheer on our team on away ice.

Final score UAF 7-UAA 4. By the way, our student section over there was almost louder than the 4,000 UAA fans.

After our first two goals, we sang our school's fight song, here are the lyrics:

A photo from the Anchorage Daily News sports front page of our student section at the Sullivan Arena.

(http://www.adn.com/2010/02/26/1159357/governors-cup-hockey.html)

Some more Nanook pride:

Chancellor Rogers made an appearance at the Sullivan Arena with his wife, Sherrie.

The second game packed the Carlson Center as the Nanooks played on home ice! Only 82 seats were available at the start of that game. So, pretty much packed! It was amazing! More of the t-shirts that the SAO ordered and passed out to almost the entire student section.

And the pep band:

The place was roaring, I can't even begin to describe it. Check out the highlight video at the Alaska Nanook Hockey Blog. If you're interested in any more info from a fans' perspective, you can find that too in the Nanook Hockey Blog.

During the intermission between 2nd and 3rd periods, the Tradition Stone made an appearance. After one of their players was ejected (for punching one of our players in the head), their coach was ejected (for throwing a water bottle at the ref) and one of our players was ejected (for something that was "A stupid decision, I should have backed off" [from the player at the post conference]) we won 3-2!

As for the other Winter Carnival Activities, I was too tired to attend, but I head that the showing of the unreleased to the public: Boondock Saints 2 was a success, as well as the karaoke night!

Right now, I'm looking forward to a week off of classes (though I'll be working on papers and the like) for spring break.

Mercedes

TRiO-Student Support Services Program

2010-03-05T14:42:00.006-09:00

This past Tuesday I had the chance to give a speech at the annual TRiO Day banquet. TRiO includes a program known as SSS, or Student Support Services., as well as the Upward Bound program, which helps students prepare for college.

There are many obstacles in our lives that may make the decision to go to college, as well as making it to graduation in a four-year program feel practically impossible! For example, living in poverty, learning or physical disabilities, or even the fact that neither of your parents went through a four-year program. These factors contribute to making it less likely for students to make it through a four-year program.

I am one of those students. I have been a part of SSS since day one of my academic experience here at UAF and I would like to take a moment to let you know about these important services that are provided on our campus through SSS.

SSS services include:

* Free tutorial services
* Instruction in mathematics skills
* Academic advising, mentoring and personal support
* Cultural and social engagement
* Use of laptop computers, labs, and other technology resources
* Direct financial assistance to qualified low-income participants

I have benefited from the opportunities and services which have helped me to stay in school, as well as being more successful in my endeavors. I hope that if you are worried about applying to school because you are faced with any of these struggles, please consider the services that SSS provides.

I almost didn't apply to school because of these obstacles but with their help I have become a very successful student and today I can't imagine my life without my college experiences.

The banquet on Tuesday was a good reminder of the important role that these programs play in helping students succeed and achieve the academic experience they deserve.
The annual banquet is a day to celebrate both those who contribute to the success of the program, as well as to celebrate the success of the students who are beneficiaries of the program.

If you are thinking about applying for school and are faced with these life obstacles you can also check out SSS on Facebook

FNA 2010

2010-03-05T14:25:00.012-09:00

It's that time of year again folks! The sun shines longer, the semester is reaching its half way point, and the much anticipated Festival of Native Arts is here! For the past 37 years students, staff, faculty, and the community of Fairbanks put in plenty of hours of planning, organizing and coordinating this annual event that gathers representatives of Alaska Native people to show and share their unique and vibrant cultural heritages.

photo by Todd Paris

The arts of music, dance, and craftsmanship, both traditional and modern, are united and celebrated with three nights of dancing that pumps in the heart of Alaska and flows back to communities throughout the state. This invitation is extended to all. Whether you're a fresh or vintage local or a visitor to the state, this is an event that will absorb your being and lift your spirit; all you have to do is show up! Did I mention it's a free event with free parking?

For some communities throughout the state, dancing was or is non-existent, and over the past few decades there has been a cultural renaissance in some areas where the people have chosen to research and relearn songs from times past. Some even create their own musical compositions with accompanied choreography. Part of the reason that festival is so powerful is that is shows the resilience of Native culture. If you can imagine winters before any modern luxuries you can imagine that unity is key to mental, physical and spiritual survival, and what better way to get together than through song, dance, and of course food! This year’s theme is “True Identity: Proud of Our Heritage.” For more information and detail about the theme you can visit this website: http://www.uaf.edu/festival/theme-logo/

The Festival of Native Arts is a very special gathering for me because on that very stage at the Concert Hall is where I remember my first, big, live performance. The year was 2002, I was in eighth grade at Clark Middle School, and a dance member of the Miracle Drummers & Dancers, a Wasilla based Yup'ik (southwest Alaska Native culture) dance group. I recall having butterflies, sweaty palms, feeling the intensity of the bright lights, and lots of eyes that were facing the opposite direction of mine. Before getting on stage I express my nervousness to my mentor. She told me that when she first started dancing she would remove her glasses so that the audience would be out of focus which helped ease her worries. I decided to try her method and as I got on stage the nerves intensified. It was my first time dancing with dance fans. I was worried I would drop the fans or that my arms would forget the motions. I remember asking the drum leader what songs we were going to perform. He says, “Don’t worry; when you hear it, you will know exactly what to do.” He prepares the singers and dancers by singing solo the chorus of the song. We collect ourselves to our places and began grooving in unison. As the drumming following the increased rhythm of our heartbeats I felt complete within myself and connected to all in that moment. Since then I could not get enough of Native dancing.

photo by Edna Henry

For me, dancing is more than a passion; it's a way of life. I am Iñupiaq with northwest Alaskan roots (as well as southern Wisconsin) and was exposed to dance early on but began my formal training when entering my teenage years. I am honored to have learned under the instruction of many respected master composers, choreographers, singers, dancers and artists. Over the years I have come to the conclusion that it is the drum that moves me, the song that guides me, the energy of the community that excites me, and I sing because I am happy, I dance because I am free. My identity is my tool for my creativity. I hope you all have a chance to take a glimpse into the arts of Alaska’s original people. Let the story dances take you on journeys, let the love songs fill your heart, and let the invitational dances allow to experience the power of the drum, and the power of the people.

Mark your calendars ladies & gentlemen, Festival of Native Arts will take place March 4th-6^th from 6 p.m. to midnight. The dancing will be at the Charles Davis Concert Hall and the artisans at Wood Center Multi-level Lounge. The last day of Festival (Saturday March 6) will begin with a potluck from noon to 2 p.m. at the Carol Brown Ballroom in the Wood Center. Bring a dish to share and/or have a taste of some our Alaskan favorites and so on. Following that will be a Pow-Wow from 2 to 5 p.m. There’s nothing better than starting off spring break weekend with singing, dancing, arts & crafts, and of course, food!

Quyana.

Robot Rock

2010-02-22T13:08:00.007-09:00

Some people are good with athletics and compete through sports. But these guys Rock with Robots! It was a tough battle collecting and tossing balls into various goals. Sometimes there were issues and repairs had to be made quickly before the start. The officials and announcers were amazing, providing hilarious commentary. The teams did an amazing job at controlling their bots. All of this effort has put their minds and skills to the test, but they have conquered this sport and will continue to do so as they work with more robots in the future.

Just another day in paradise

2010-02-15T09:23:00.002-09:00

Yep, you heard me, paradise. I don't need sandy beaches or palm trees, just clear and cold winter air.

February and March are by far some on my favorite months in Fairbanks. Its cold sure, but the worst is generally behind us. The sun is coming back at something like 7 minutes more sunlight a day or over 45 minutes a week! Goggle tans are in by the way. But seriously, this is the time to be outside! Get out there!

As further motivation, you now get to hear about my stellar weekend. Excited? I'm sure you are. Friday rolled around with the usual excitement (it is Friday after all!) but because lab was canceled, today consisted of trekking down to Healy for some ice climbing. Needless to say, the weather was gorgeous, the ice was fat and everyone had a great time. What more could one want?

The answer of course is more. More ice. More cold mountain air. More awesome.

Saturday morning finds us once again on the side of the highway in Healy, blue sky and sun lighting up the mountains in fantastic ways. Today's agenda is bigger, taller ice. As we rope up and begin to climb, workers from the Alaska Railroad pull up across the river on the tracks and sit and watch us work the face. I can't decide what they want to see more... us making it to the top or Jason whipping down onto his last ice screw. He builds his anchor and comes down, the railroad workers drive off; clearly they wanted the latter.

Saturday turns into Sunday and Moose Mountain beckons. It's time for some downhill skiing! The trails are great and the hill was surprisingly quiet. Fast runs and good times with friends. Many many runs later, cup of coffee in hand I can sit back and reflect on my weekend. What more can one say?

Just another day in paradise.

UAF in the Winter

2010-02-14T13:01:00.023-09:00

Arctic Greetings~

Recently I have been asked about living in Alaska, especially during the winter time.

I just want to say that even though I love Alaskan summers, the winters here offer unique opportunities and beauty that is rare in other places.

When I am not studying or working, getting out in the winter time offers a variety of recreation. For example some of my favorite past times include ice climbing, going to glaciers, hiking, dog sledding, and just enjoying all the beautiful places. There are a variety of places to go within a days trip from campus. If you are new to winter time recreationOutdoor Adventures UAF offers guided trips through Outdoor Adventures. They have everything from camping, skiing,snowshoeing and much more throughout the year.

If you are really interested in winter time out door recreation, UAF even offers a variety of classes in outdoor recreation and leadership certification.

Probably, the place that my dogs and I visit most is Ester Dome, which offers a panoramic view of the Golden Heart city and the surrounding valley.

I understand being a busy college student, but it is important to take a break from the books. So if you don't have the time for a day trip UAF offers a variety of hiking and ski trails that take you through the beautiful boreal forest right here on campus.

Please remember when going out in the cold dress for the weather, carry enough water, and wear proper foot gear.

a reason I love UAF

2010-02-10T14:27:00.002-09:00

Hey all,

After traveling over break coming back to Fairbanks was ... interesting. I was exited for my classes, I'm taking fun ones this semester, but the cold and dark was hard adjusting back to.

But today was one of those perfect Fairbanks days. It was warm enough to enjoy the outdoors and sunny enough to give you your daily dose of vitamin D. This actually made it kind of difficult to attend class.. but I was still really exited.

Tomorrow the office I work for on campus, LIVE, is having its first leadership lunch of the semester. It's going to be pretty interesting, our speaker is an expert on permafrost and will be talking about a recent trip to Antarctica!

Hopefully tomorrow will be this beautiful too!

Opportunities with NASA for UAF Students

2009-12-07T10:03:00.000-09:00

Hey All,
As many readers out there may or may not know, UAF is a triple crown institution: Land, Sea and Space grant. As a Space grant institution, there is some very exciting research is going on with relation to space and the atmosphere at UAF, and our students are able to be involved. We're also the only school in the world that owns its own rocket range, Poker Flats, so our students and faculty can build and launch rockets to gather data from the atmosphere. We're hoping to launch a satellite sometime soon, so then we'll have the only University owned satellite launching range ^_^

This year, for students majoring in science, technology, engineering, and math and some other programs will have an opportunity to apply for NASA internships and for a NASA Academy. So, for students interested in learning more about NASA and maybe laying the ground work to work for them after graduation, check out the application process here.

How cool is that, seriously? Thanks for reading, and have a great week!

Joe Alloway, Admissions Counselor

Power Shift West '09

2009-11-10T12:09:00.003-09:00

Power Shift West 2009 is a conference campaign and this year its focuses included energy issues, climate change, and the Senate Committee Climate Bill for Copenhagen negotiations December 2009. The bigger picture that Power Shift paints is to educate, motivate, and organize young people in the United States. It works to bring together young leaders to discuss pressing issues, to share ideas, knowledge, and send them back to their own communities to be stronger leaders and organizers. Power Shift focuses on bottom up approaches to local community solutions.

A few of the organizations that hosted and supported this conference were Sierra Student Coalition, Energy Action Coalition, and the Earth Island Institute. It consisted of panels, workshops, and breakout group sessions. Panels addressed issues such as climate justice, energy efficiency, and renewable energy. Panels of guest speakers from a variety of fields briefly discussed their issues and then open the floor to question and answer sessions. I learned some easy ways to conserve energy such as plugging out appliances when not in use and using a power strip and turn it off to cut the flow of electricity. I also learned about toxic affects of coal on human health and the environment and mountain top removal in Appalachia which carries environmental justice issues, along with other social and political components to coal mining and their communities. There was even a panel speaker, Emily Farenbacher, from Sierra Club in Anchorage Alaska, who discussed energy, coal, and climate change in Alaska.

In workshops students had the opportunity to gain new skills and understanding on a variety of topics which they could hopefully use back at home. Some topics were campaign planning, coalition building, fundraising, and other organizational and leadership skills. There were all levels of activists at the conference which provided an opportunity to work among student peers to share knowledge and ideas between campuses.

A few of the Keynote speakers included Rikki Ott, an activist and author of Sound Truth and Corporate Myth: The Legacy of the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill. Another keynote speaker was Dan Carol, he served as the Content and Issues Director in Chicago for the Obama Campaign. Formerly, Carol was an environmental and energy budget analyst at the Congressional Budget Office.

At the end of the conference students had breakout sessions where we gathered by region to discuss issues specific to our areas. Then we worked together to design an action plan to try and begin to address issues which affect our home state. The conference ended with a parade of solutions where students rode bicycles, dressed as polar bears, and carried windmills and banners.

Alpha Phi Omega Region Conference in Eugene

2009-11-09T20:38:00.000-09:00

This past weekend I had the opportunity with another brother and a pledge from UAF to visit the University of Oregon, Zeta Psi chapter for a Region 11 conference for Alpha Phi Omega. For those of you who don't know, APO is a National Co-Ed Service Fraternity. There are tons of schools with a chapter. We love to do service. Our other focuses are developing leadership and friendships.

I arrived early Friday morning to pouring rain with two other brothers from Alaska, one from Fairbanks and the other from Anchorage. Since most of the brothers at UO had class, the three of us gave ourselves a campus tour. I was amazed at how many building that campus has! We visited their Duck Store (the bookstore), which was huge! After wandering around campus for awhile, we went back to the E.M.U. (the student union center [I forgot the official name of it]) and we were just in time for some live entertainment from three different a cappella groups. My favorite was On the Rocks!

Shortly after the performances the conference began with dinner and mingling. We had lasagna! Yum... There were crazy conversation starters and it was a lot of fun. After that we visited an ice cream shop in Eugene called Prince Puckler's. MMMM that was soooo tasty! And our entertainment for the evening was bowling! The first game was terrible for me, but in the second game I think I got my all time record of 104! The Anchorage brother had like 5 strikes in a row next to me. By the end of bowling, I was exhausted... I had been up since 7 am the day before.... darn red-eye flights.

Saturday, we were up early for a region business meeting, followed by service projects. But after breakfast and before the meeting, we played an ice breaker called Street Fighter. I can't explain it, but here are a couple pictures:

We could choose from either visiting a youth homeless shelter and helping sanitize everything or helping UO's Student Coalition in registering people to vote. I chose to help sanitize the homeless shelter, since politics aren't really my thing. It was nice to know that there was somewhere for the youth to go and get a warm meal and place to sleep, but it was upsetting that there are a lot of homeless youth in Eugene.

When we got back, we had an entertaining risk management "training" (review/whatever you want to call it). This was done by APO's National President, Maggie Katz! I love that she isn't a crazy strict person and understands that we are college students and all we want to do is have fun! She definitely wasn't there to kill our fun, just to remind us to be careful and take care of each other while doing so. Then we had an advisor recruitment session followed by lunch. During my lunch, since I am the president, I had to go to a confidential meeting that determined this years region winners of three awards: leadership, friendship and service.

In the afternoon, we had the opportunity to participate in APO LEADS courses. Launch, Explore, Achieve, Discover and Serve are the 5 courses. Available this weekend were Launch and Discover. It was really interesting and I had a blast improving my leadership skills.

We had a short break to change for the awards banquet dinner. That was the most tasty meal of the whole trip! My chapter won the Friendship award, Zeta Psi won the Leadership award and Alpha Zeta Eta won the Service award. That was one of the toughest decisions I've ever had to make in my entire life. Following dinner, we had a "Halloween Mixer." It was part dance, part costume contest, part charades and part just fun!

In the morning we received parting gifts and said good bye. But all of the Alaska Brothers itineraries left in the evening so we spent quite a bit of time with Zeta Psi brothers and saw a bit more of Eugene. We had lunch at Cornucopia. I'm pretty sure that was the best burger I've ever had in my life. After resting and digesting that some, we went to Sweet Life. OMG, I had a chocolate silk cake that was pretty amazing and I brought home an eclair which was also to die for.

After wandering around Eugene a little more and getting to know my brothers more, it was time to depart :(
I'm really glad I went, and can't wait to visit my brothers again!

More Halloween Fun at UAF!

2009-11-04T13:11:00.004-09:00

Hello Fiendish Fiends and Ghoulish Ghouls,

Yes indeed, another Halloween has come and gone. It was a fun one here at UAF. As you may have noticed, we thrilled the World, we did the great cover up, and for me . . . I dressed as the Riddler and made Homestar Runner pumpkins. It's the little things about the holidays at UAF that make it so much fun. Like the fact that there are so many things to do, and so many opportunities out there. Whatever you're into, you can express it at UAF, and that's really important when you're considering a college, eh? UAF has traditions, too, which are a lot like UAF holidays!

Holidays are always fun, and we always look forward to the next one. For Thanksgiving, the UAF Outdoor Adventures Office is going hiking in the mountains and they're going to cook a turkey on a cabin cook stove. Perfect! That's so Alaskan!

Below I've included some of the photos I took and that were taken of me and by me during the halloween festivities. Enjoy, and I'll be back to posting soon!

Sincerely,
Joe Alloway
UAF Admissions Counselor
Alumnus '07, '08

My wife Erin and I on the stair, posing in our costumes. Erin is Lulu from FF X, and I'm . . . The Riddler!
A group photo, Erin and our neighbors at the Halloween dance.

Senor Cardgage and a Duck. Truly, the greatest of pumpkins.
These are the pumpkins out neighbors did. I think they're both a little on the creepy side . . .

10th annual leadership conference!

2009-10-23T13:10:00.004-08:00

This last weekend was the leadership conference put in by the L.I.V.E office (leadership involvement and volunteer experience)! It was my first conference attended and the first conference I helped plan. When I was hired as the leadership assistant last spring I was told I would have to plan a conference, yea.. right.
But it happened! And it went off basically without a hitch. We had about 12 different workshops, which participants picked 3 to attend. Our keynote speaker was amazing. We were really exited to have him up from Colorado and I think his speech spoke to everyone at the conference. It was a great reminder on why we are leaders and what it means to have character and integrity.
The food was great, the company was entertaining, the information was valuable and I'm ready to go for next year! October! Mark your calenders!

Alaska Nanook Pep Band!

2009-10-15T15:19:00.000-08:00

Hey Band Geeks!
I love playing in the Alaska Nanook Pep Band! Let me give you the run down. In Fairbanks, we lack a football team, so unfortunately we don't have a marching band. But, we do have mens hockey, which is another awesome sport. So, that's who we cheer on! We also play for our basketball teams (both men and women) and our ladies volleyball team! Hopefully, in the future, we'll play for our ladies hockey team (they are just a club right now, but they want to be a NCAA team eventually) as well!

In the past, we've had a smaller group, but this year, we have 46 members! Who doesn't love being loud, playing music that everyone recognizes and having tons of school spirit?! I certainly do. Here's a picture to prove our spirit!

even the mascot wants to play trumpet!

We've done some upgrades to the uniform this year too!

We went from this.... in the lovely gold shirts with nothing on the back

To the awesome blue shirts with a upgraded front logo and the Alaska Nanooks A on the back!!

Our director is a pretty awesome grad student from the UAF Music Department, Hannah Johnston.

So, if you play a pep band instrument and are coming to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, come out and play with us! Or cheer for us if you don't play anything.

Mercedes
tenor saxes for life! :)

24 Hour Comic day in Fairbanks!

2009-10-03T11:41:00.003-08:00

Hey True Believers,
If you didn't know, today is the fourth 24 hour comic day across the world. Fairbanks is right there in the mix, with our third year in this event. Contestants gather to draw their own 24 page comic in a 24 hour period (daunting, for even the quickest artist!). Local artists and students are right mixing it up, including UAF Art professor Jamie Smith (and artist of Freeze Frame and Nuggets daily comic strips). Yet another example of Fairbanks folks having a blast in the arctic north. If you're in Fairbanks, check it out at the Comic Shop, or find a location near you!
Excelsior!
Joe

Starvation Gulch at UAF!

2009-10-01T16:48:00.003-08:00

Yo yo yo!
This last weekend was a hot one in the arctic north. I'm referring, of course to UAF's 85th annual Starvation Gulch, our fall celebratatory bonfire. For the event, clubs and organizations around campus gather wood to build gi-normous, flammable structures for the sole purpose of burning them down. Check out this video on youtube to see more Starvation Gulch action. This is just another example of the folks here at UAF having a blast, and having fun outside, even when it is cold. Enjoy!
Joe

Top to Bottom: The view of the fires from the top of a neighboring hill; A life size replica flaming fire truck; Me and Chancellor Brian Rogers with the fires in the background (seen in fire gear, because tradition dictates that UAF's leader must light the fires).

Tunnel Man Emerges!

2009-09-22T12:08:00.000-08:00

Hey Team,
I just wanted to share an awesome youtube video with everyone: Tunnel Man Emerges! Tunnel Man is a super hero who lives in Ice Tunnels, and teaches children about Ice Wedges and Contraction Cracks in Alaska. Tunnel Man is played by Kenji Yoshikawa, a Research Associate Professor for the Institute of Northern Engineering. I thought the video was awesome, fun, and educational. It was produced as part of UAF's participation in the International Polar Year (IPY). The Anchorage Daily News also did a story on Tunnel Man. Finally, check out the video!

Thanks for reading, more excitment in the North to come! Joe

The Great Outdoors in Fairbanks

2009-06-04T12:33:00.000-08:00

Hey Future and Current Nanooks,
About a week ago I decided to go climbing and hiking out at Angel Rocks about 50 miles out of Fairbanks. The weather was beautiful, and it was a great hike. Afterwords, I went out to the Chena Hot Springs Resort and went for a soak in the natural hot spring. Since I was there, I also went to the Aurora Ice Museum, which is the world's largest year round ice facility. Of course, being from Alaska, ice is nothing new to me, but it was fun to see all the carvings in one of the hottest months of the year.

One of the great things about living in Fairbanks and attending UAF is that you are IN Alaska. If you have any interest in the great outdoors, this is a pretty great place. We highly encourage our students to get out an enjoy it with our wide array of intramural sports and our Outdoor Adventure Office. If you're coming up for Orientation, be sure to check out the Wilderness Welcome!

Thanks for reading, and excelsior!
Joe
PS: Photos coming, they're on my camera at home.

Academic Decathlon!

2009-03-05T08:44:00.002-09:00

Hey team,

This is Joe again. I just wanted to take a moment to tell you all about the awesome state Academic Decathlon competition I just attended. The Academic Decathlon, for those of you who haven't heard of it, is a high school academic program designed challenge the best and brightest students from each school in a competition with other schools from their region and state. The students compete in 10 different categories (hence, decathlon): Art, Economics, Essay, Interview, Language and Literature, Mathematics, Music, Science, Social Science, and Speech. In high school, I did Drama Debate and Forensics, so I couldn't do Aca Deca, but I wish I had the chance.

For my part, I was a guest judge and proctor for the event, and I got to hand out 18 scholarships during the awards banquet. I have quite a background in public speaking, so I was totally stoked to be a judge for both the Interview and Speech programs. These student were great!

The result of the competition were as follows:
1st Place large school: Lathrop High School (my alma mater)
1st Place medium school: Monroe Catholic Jr/Sr High School
1st Place small school: Klawock High School

If you want to find out more about the Alaska Academic Decathlon, feel free to visit their website. They also compiled a video of the event and it's online here. If you watch the video, make sure to watch out for the couple of shots of me! Thanks for reading, and I'll update you with exciting information from my adventures soon!

Joe

Power Shift is Coming!

2009-02-06T11:39:00.000-09:00

Dear fellow shifters,

Hello, this is Joe from the University of Alaska Fairbanks Office of Admissions again. Just wanted to give a quick post about a meeting I sat in on last night. The meeting was sponsored by the upcoming Power Shift event which will be happening in Washington DC at the end of February. This is an opportunity for people all over the country to come together to share their thoughts, concerns and hopes for the future of the environment. I was impressed to see such a wide variety of students attending this meeting on campus. It seemed like a real community event. Parents with their children attended, undergraduates, graduates, staff members, and more were present. I was impressed with the dedication to the environment, and I can only hope that the response was as positive on other campuses throughout the nation and world. I know that some students and community members from Fairbanks will be attending, and I hope that many more attend. I won't be able to attend, unfortunately, but I will be following the event and related events closely. Remember, that's powershift09.org!

Thanks for reading, and have a great day. I'll post again soon about some more excitement!

Joe

Rejuvenation!!!

2009-02-05T15:30:00.004-09:00

Winter break is the perfect opportunity to get out and explore!!! After a hard semester, the best way to get back in the game in the Spring is to explore and learn new things! This winter break I went home to Anchorage for Christmas to visit family and house sat for a family with dogs!

After the holidays, my boyfriend and I took off to the East Coast because it is so easy to get around with all of the public transportation options! We started off in Washington DC with a tour of the capitol and checking out the museums, and then just walked around exploring all DC has to offer. Our first day out of DC we traveled to Annapolis, MD the capitol of Maryland and home of the U.S. Naval Academy. The Naval Academy and the town were exciting to see for me because I had almost gone there before I came to UAF!

The next day we went down to Mt. Vernon, George Washington's home and learned a lot about him and walked all across the expansive acres of the Washington's farm. A self-taught man, he experimented and designed upgrades to farming and its equipment!

We had many other adventures during that break, but the biggest one of all was attending the Inauguration of President Obama! This was a very exciting event! We had taken the train, which was jam packed with people, down the day before and when we got off and entered the train station, there were people everywhere we could barely move! We headed over to the Senate Office building to pick up our Inauguration tickets and had to wait in line for 20 minutes just to get into the building! After I went up for the tickets I found out that some people had waited nearly 2 hours earlier in the day! On the day of the actual event we got on the Metro with so many people that there wasn't even standing room available after a couple stops! We couldn't find the gate we were supposed to enter through because there were so many people we had to snake our way through the mobs! When we got to a line we were not even sure if we were in a line!

Friends in Fairbanks

2009-01-26T15:06:00.003-09:00

So, I just finished my blog entry on the amazing trip I had to Washington DC this winter break. However, while my break ended in witnessing history, it actually got off with a pretty bleak start. I'm originally from the Portland, OR metro area and right after finals I was to be headed home to see my family over break. Unfortunately, a huge storm hit the Pacific Northwest completely shutting down the Seattle, Portland, and Spokane airports--apparently not all airports are prepared for snow and ice like Fairbanks! My flight, and the flights of many friends were naturally canceled. But just as I was beginning to bemoan the reality of not making it home for Christmas, I realized that even in just two years of being up here I have accumulated quite an awesome group of friends. From spontaneous sledding adventures to Winter Solstice parties to Contra-dancing, my Fairbanks friends and others stranded like myself banded together and made the best of what could have been a pretty miserable kickoff to our Christmas break. This is just one more example of the incredible hospitality and kindness of the amazing community here at UAF and throughout Fairbanks. When you choose to come to UAF, you are not just coming to a unique and wonderful college, but also a unique and wonderful community.

Witness to History...Thanks to UAF!

2009-01-26T14:20:00.003-09:00

This last week America ushered in a new era with the inauguration of Barack Obama. As a political science major, I have been following the campaigns for the past year, and I have had my eye on Obama ever since his 2004 Democratic National Convention speech. Thus, to say the least, this has been a BIG deal for me! Last fall I was approached by a series of professors and administrators who were extremely excited to tell me about an opportunity to attend the Inauguration in Washington DC this January. I applied and was accepted as one of eleven students choosen to represent UAF at the Washington Center's Inauguration Seminar. This all-expenses paid trip included a week long intensive academic seminar at the University of DC, site visits to a plethora of amazing locales, VIP meetings with various officials, and tickets to the Inauguration (half the group went to the actual Oath of Office Ceremony on the Mall, while the other half had VIP tickets to the Parade). I recently returned from this incredible, once in a lifetime winter vacation and would like to take a brief moment to share with you some of the fantastic experiences I had back in Washington DC.

The week-long seminar was an academic treat--"seminar" might sound boring, but what it really means is an all-star cast of speakers, site visits, and other opportunities. Among some of our more impressive speakers were Sam Donaldson, the Pakistani Ambassador to the United States, Bush's Press Secretary Dana Perino, Ted Koppel, Mark Russell, and CNN Correspondant Dana Bash. We also had the opportunity to visit a wide range of Washington sites, including: the Republican National Committee Headquarters, the Jordanian Embassy, the Center for American Progress think-tank, and many others. As Alaskans we were able to get a few extra-special treats that many of our fellow Seminar particpants (students from all over the nation) did not get, these included meetings with our three Congressional delegates and VIP tickets to a National Press Club Luncheon.

When not in seminar, the eleven of us had a splendid time exploring Washington DC. Just a few highlights included: the Smithsonian museums compelete with special Inauguration celebrations, the baby guerrila that was born at the National Zoo upon arrival to DC, all of the Mall's memorials and monuments, and of course, delicious dinners in Georgetown and Dupont Circle. But the highlight of all highlights was without a doubt, Inauguration Day. While half of our group watched the Oath of Office Ceremony from a privileged spot right in front of the Captiol, myself and four other UAF students staked out our spots across from the White House on the parade route. Although it was a cold, long day, all five of us were honored to have virtually front row seats to history as we watched Barack and Michelle walk down Pennsylvania Avenue, followed by over 100 performances from groups from across the nation. Extra-special for us was that our parade seats were right across the street from Obama's viewing box--so for three hours we got to watch our new President laugh and joke with his family as he cheered on group after group.

All in all, it was an incredible experience to be in our nation's capital during such a historic event. The energy and enthusiasm radiating throughout the city was one of the most remarkable environments I have ever been in. Whether Republican or Democrat, American or a vistor from afar, Barack Obama's Inauguration weekend and the week proceding it was one filled with hope, optimism, and a sense that the world is indeed changing and the people are at last ready to embrace those changes. I have been privileged a number of times to get to travel on behalf of UAF, but by far, being a "witness to history" in Washington DC this January was certainly the most memorable.

For all those in the Fairbanks area, I invite you to come to a special presentation and reception by the eleven-student Inaugural delegation on Tuesday, February 10th at 4:15pm in the Wood Center Ballroom.

Worldwide Influence

2009-01-08T07:46:00.002-09:00

Ever told someone that you go to or are thinking of going to UAF and then get that confused look and a mumbled "Huh? Where is that?" Students often have a bit of a complex when it comes to the notarity of UAF. Hearing things like "Nobody knows or cares we're up here." or "What can you do with a degree from UAF? Its a state school!" unfortunatly is too common.

Right now, I'm in Longyearbyen, a town of about 2,100 inhabitants on the Norwegian archepeligo of Svalbard on exchange from UAF. (I assure you, myself and other ambassadors will be telling you a lot about Exchange and Study Abroad from UAF in the weeks to come.) I've been here for a week. In that one week, I've found 2 paper publications with articles about science and activities conducted at UAF. Furthermore, UAF was mentioned in a lecture I attended on Tuesday. Today as I walked out of the computer lab, I saw someone looking at the Aurora Forecast website run by UAF's Geophysical Institute. You can check it out yourself at http://www.gedds.alaska.edu/AuroraForecast/. All that in just a week!

Clearly, UAF and its students are making big impacts worldwide. I don't know about any of you, but I say that I'm a UAF student with pride. I have faith in our students, our staff, and our faculty and the education they give us. We are influencing the world in countless ways and it makes me proud to be a part of that.

More from Longyearbyen soon!

2008-12-16T23:45:00.003-09:00

Hola everyone!
I can't wait for this semester to be over! I'm very excited because now I just have one semester left in my undergraduate degree. There's not too much going on with me except for finals and Christmas shopping. My last final is on Thursday as well as my final paper. The paper is going very well but I haven't had too much time to study but I'm sure I will. I just wanted to drop a quick note about life these days. Wishing you all a happy and safe holiday season!

Hasta luego,
Deanna

Back from travels!

2008-11-12T11:53:00.000-09:00

Hey again, righteous fans!

This is Joe again from the UAF Office of Admissions. I just thought I would take a couple of moments to write a blog about my recent trip to the Eastern part of this country. I just got back from a week of high school and individual visits in Michigan and Pennsylvania (and this was pre-November 4th, so the political atmosphere was intense). In Michigan, everything was going pretty great. I ran into a whole bunch of students who were interested in our Biology programs, our Hockey team, our Natural Resource Management progam, and our Marine Biology MS and PhD Programs. Overall, the enthusiasm of the students, families, teachers and counselors in favor of UAF was wonderful.

Now, it wasn't all fun: When I was supposed to fly from Musekgon (Western MI), the whole airport was fogged in, so I had to re-rent a car, and speed across the state to Detroit so I could catch my connecting flight from Detroit to Pittsburgh. Then, when I got to Pittsburgh, I found out my hotel was actually an hour drive away from the Airport. (and my rental had a funny smell, for some reason). But, after that, things went pretty well.

But hey, pop quiz: what excitement just recently occured in the state of Pennsylvania? That's right, the Phillies winning the World series for the first time in 28 years. Does Philly know how to party? Well, it would appear they do. They actually had a city wide celebration and parade on the 31st, which was the day that I was in Philly. Now dig this: the parade route went down 21st and Market, and my hotel room was overlooking 22nd and Market. I actually got to watch the Phillies' float drive by from my window. It was awesome.

In Pennsylvania, I also received a lot of postive reactions to UAF. Mostly I was asked questions about Engineering, Physics, Liberal Arts, and such. Again, the positive attitude present in the schools was very heart-warming. One of the schools in Allentown was so excited to have me at the school, I actually wound up giving the presentation in their auditorium, and they took photos for their yearbook (which I wish I had asked for copies of, in retrospect)!
Anyway, I know this is longer than I initially meant for it to be, but it's all good information and/or in good fun. Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for the next exciting adventure of Joe in Admission Land!

Joe

PS: Photos coming soon, I just didn't have my memory card with me when I wrote this :(

Adventures in the Last Frontier

2008-10-27T22:04:00.003-08:00

Hello there!

Blogging huh? I must say, I've never done this before but I hope that this gives everyone a new and informative look at UAF, the activities here and the lives of students.

So, I work at UAF Outdoor Adventures and this weekend I led a trip down to Gunnysack Creek in the Delta Range south of Delta Junction (about 2 hours south of Fairbanks). We had 6 fantastic participants on the trip and we all had a great time. The day started off cold as we drove down and the wind was howling when we arrived at the trail-head. We got on our way and soon the steep valley walls were shielding us from most of the wind and it was quite nice. We hiked our way up the valley, stopping every now and again to snack and take pictures of the neat ice formations and beautiful views. We returned to the car and stopped in Delta for dinner. We saw 4 moose on the way home which was the first time for some people. It was a great day overall and everyone had fun. What a great Saturday!

I love that Outdoor Adventures provides these opportunities for UAF students, staff and faculty. It feels really good to have a programs, like my trip on Saturday, that was facilitated by students for other students. It creates a unique environment to do new things, and challenge yourself as an individual by trying new things. I think everyone on the trip on Saturday would agree, this wasn't just a hike in subfreezing temperatures. It was an experience where students bonded with other students from different walks of life, where Wildlife Biology majors joked with Engineering majors, where exchange students met lifelong Alaskans and where we all shared a little of ourselves with each other.

A new Year for the Student Ambassadors

2008-09-08T12:00:00.007-08:00

Dear Faithful fans!

Hello, everyone, this is Joe Alloway, the Admissions Counselor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks who acts as coordinator for the Student Ambassador Program. I use that super long sentence to describe my part in this program to let you know how small my role really is. The Student Ambassador Program at UAF is about the students. The goal is for them to be involved with other students, and to share some of their stories about college in general and UAF in particular.

So, here we are at the beginning of another awesome school year, and I have a fine crew of Ambassadors ready to meet new students. We have students studying everything from Communication to Chemistry, so there's probably somebody who can give you some good advice. And if you're having trouble, you can always contact me, and I can set you on the right track.

Soon, this blog will be populated with exciting posts from all of our Student Ambassadors, so keep tuned, and enjoy the fun!

Ciao,

Joe

Photo Credits: Todd Paris, UAF Marketing. Not for reproduction or sale.

It's a new year

2008-09-03T11:34:00.003-08:00

The start of the academic year brings the campus alive! With over 2000 new students joining the UAF community, we are a flurry of activity and action this week. In my role as Director, I delight in seeing the students that Brandon, Ginny, Jessica, and Joe have worked so hard assist during their admissions process. At the recent Grand Orientation Kick-off we invited each new student to stand if they had met with an admissions counselor. Nearly everyone stood up! For me it just emphasized the importance of making that connection and contact with an admissions counselor! SO, if you haven't already visited, called us, or stopped by our table at your local college fair, keep an eye out for the Admissions Team (A-Team) during the Fall recruitment season. I know for sure that they want to meet you and tell you all about UAF!

UAF Student Ambassadors

2008-08-21T14:03:00.004-08:00

The Student Ambassadors volunteer to help others get to know the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Their majors cover a wide span of curricula, and their interests and extracurricular activities are equally diverse.

You can visit the UAF Student Ambassadors website and read the profiles of each of the ambassadors at www.uaf.edu/ambassadors/. You can also easily contact the ambassadors with any questions from this site.