Posted by: umlstudentactivities on: November 4, 2011
Five years ago I was entering my freshman year of high school. The Student Government Association at UMass Lowell however, was starting the beginning stages of what would eventually become the Student Bill of Rights and Responsibilities. Over those five years, various chairpersons of the Governance Committee collaborated with the administration of the school to create a document that was pleasing to the students and the faculty. The document would go through various changes before making our first big stride last year. And over the summer, the Bill of Rights and Responsibilities would get the support from the Provost office, Dean of Students office, and the Chancellors office.
The Student Bill of Rights and Responsibilities was created to remind students that they have a certain set of liberties guaranteed on campus. Everything contained inside of the four page document can be found elsewhere on campus. The problem was it was spread throughout thousands of pages of documents. So, the Student Government Association set out to create a clear and understandable document that could have real life use. These rights are as simple as having a campus without discrimination, or as complex as having an open financial process. But at the same time, it is important to remember that faculty and administrators have a certain set of rights. The Bill of Rights and Responsibilities outlines that to receive respect, we must return it equally.
This document is an important first for not only our campus, but for every UMass campus. It is the first of its kind guaranteeing students the ability to enjoy their time at UMass Lowell without having to worry about unfairness or discrimination. To see it for yourself, visit the Student Activities Office on South Campus on the second floor of the McGauvran Student Center. If you would like more information, feel free to e-mail the Governance Committee at SGAGovernance@student.uml.edu.
Posted by: umlstudentactivities on: November 1, 2011
For the VPAC (Visual & Performing Arts Center) the final week prior to an event is intended to be a week for heavy promotion and last minute minor adjustments. During this week we focus primarily on group promotions, in collaboration with MEISA (Music & Entertainment Industry Student Association) and on ensuring that all the minor details have been attended to. VPAC typically hosts an event every Thursday night in Fox Common, so the bulk of the last week preparation begins on Monday and is executed or delegated by Tuesday night. Given the frequent nature of our events, sometimes the week leading up to an event includes more last minute preparation than we would hope for and may vary on the type and location of the event. Most of our events are in Fox Common so I will focus on our typical model of the week before these events.
Some of the final preparations consist of assigning members to a job or a task leading up to and during the Thursday night show. Members are assigned to specific tasks such as: Running audio equipment during the live show, running the light show, helping bands load in and load out equipment before and after the show, breaking down and setting up the stage between sets, executing online promotions before the show, carrying out promotional campaigns on campus with promotional materials and occasionally making announcements at large student gatherings.
Some additional last week preparation consists of details such as: Securing parking for bands, tending to any specific needs of an artist’s contract, confirming any back-lining that may be set between the performing bands, collaborating with WUML for radio promotion and live interviews, collaborating with other student organizations and inviting them to set up tables at our event to promote their organization and finally, confirming police details.
The most successful week leading up to an event includes only very minor details to be addressed. What happens before the week of the event always determines what must be done during the last week. The preparation that takes place before this final week is key to avoid scrambling to finalize paperwork and promote the event. The events that are given the most preparation are always executed successfully and with a high degree of confidence.
Posted by: umlstudentactivities on: October 28, 2011
As a student leader here on campus I have developed a set of skills that I believe make me an effective leader. The most important of these skills I feel would be communication. We use our communication skills every day in interactions we have with others. How good we are at communicating determines the course of our actions, especially if we are trying to relay a specific message or complete a certain goal or task.
Just imagine a situation where you are in any position of authority, what happens if you are ineffective at communicating what you want to those around you? Nothing. Which is why it is imperative that in order for your organization to succeed you and all of the members need to communicate well. The following are some tips that will help improve communication should you experience difficulties:
• If you are in an officer role within your student organization Listen to yourself. If you cannot understand the tasks you are delegating then how do you expect your members to comprehend?
• If you are given a task and don’t understand your responsibilities Ask for clarification. You will get nowhere if you can’t ask for help. There is no such thing as a dumb question.
• If you have delegated responsibilities to another officer or a member and haven’t seen much progress Follow up with this person. We are all extremely busy between classes and work for those students who have a job. It is quite simple for someone to forget about tasks if they have three midterms and two essays. If this becomes a constant however, well that is a different kind of conversation you need to have with this member.
• Should there be a breakdown in communication then be prepared to listen and to give Feedback. This feedback should always be constructive in nature and only give it when the person is in a receptive state, because if they are not receptive then they’re not going to listen to you. Also, you should always be prepared to receive feedback as well. The more we work together the better our organization will be.
I now leave you with these pieces of advice. I hope that they help you with any endeavors that you may have within your student organization, as well as any troubles that occur outside of the organization
Posted by: umlstudentactivities on: October 26, 2011
Hello everyone my name is Marck Clerveau. I am a senior in the Electrical Engineering program here at UMass Lowell and the current president of the Association of Students of African Origin (ASAO). I wanted to share a few tips about something that is very important to all student organizations on campus and that is creating a brand for your student organization. Branding your organization is important because it reinforces the identity of the organization not only to your members but to those who may not know what your organization is about. I have three simple tips when it comes to branding your organization:
Be Clear & Concise
When it comes to branding your organization you want to make sure you are clear and concise about your mission statement. A long spiel about your organization is less likely to be effective than a short informative summary.
Be Consistent
You want to make sure that you are sending out one message when branding your organization. Multiple messages may confuse the audience you are trying to capture and, in result, turn them away. Also by being consistent, the message you are sending out is more likely to be remembered.
Be Creative
This is the most enjoyable and important part when it comes to branding your organization. Be sure to be innovative and original in order stand out. You have a higher chance of capturing your audience’s attention this way rather than by repeating the same old tactics that your target audience has seen done over and over.
Posted by: umlstudentactivities on: October 18, 2011
Sometimes it seems like every professor thinks they’re my one and only. They want me to do an in-depth analysis of entire books, prepare myself for these exams, and edit my peers’ assignments, all by next week! They have no idea that outside of the classroom, I have other commitments that I need to set aside time for; like being a part of the ASAO Executive Board. For me, ASAO is the assignment that never ends; each week we meet to discuss and brainstorm ideas to make the group better and better. However, after these meetings, it’s up to us to execute the delegated tasks to make our ideas a reality.
After classes and ASAO, my agenda book goes from being bare to overflowing with assignments and tasks I would otherwise never remember. I constantly check my agenda so that throughout the day, I can use my time wisely to chip away at what needs to be done. When it feels like I’m drowning in the responsibilities I have, it also helps to think about the reason why I’m doing this. Making a significant impact on campus and excelling academically are my two goals, and I’ll do anything I can in order to reach them. Being a student leader leaves no room for excuses or shying away from what’s expected of you, and applying some self-discipline, utilizing organizational skills, and keeping the end goal in mind are the things that keep me on track.
Posted by: umlstudentactivities on: April 10, 2011
Importance of Voting by corey Lanier
Last year, I took a class at my high school on American politics. At the time, I was only 17 years old and had no care for politics. But as I took the course, I will never forget the way my teacher, Mr. Porell, described the political system. Politicians are controlled 100% by the people. It seems like a trivial idea, but I had never thought of it like that. We vote them in office, we allow them to receive a paycheck, and we allow them to speak on behalf of us. We are the boss of a politician, and if a politician isn’t working to the best of what I want, that politician should not be allowed to continue working for me.
Many people ignore the importance of voting, citing issues of being unheard, or a single vote being insignificant. But here is another lesson Mr. Porell taught me, an uninformed voter, is a politician’s best friend. By not voting or not paying attention to the candidates, you are possibly allowing a politician to stay in power who shouldn’t be allowed there. Now I understand that Student Government elections are not nearly as important as an election for senate, but does that mean it is not important at all? On April 12th and 13th, you will have the chance to decide who will represent you to the administration, or to other universities. Don’t allow undeserving people to get elected, rather become informed and send a message to your student leaders. As Abraham Lincoln once said, democracy is “government of the people, by the people, and for the people”. You’re in charge; not them
Posted by: umlstudentactivities on: April 8, 2011
One of the many benefits of being a student at UMass Lowell is University Day. Students are given the day off to have some fun and enjoy some of the things the University has to offer. On this day, the Campus Activities Programming Association (CAPA for short) sponsors one of the best events UMass Lowell offers…SPRING CARNIVAL! Returning students already know how exciting Spring Carni is but if you’re a new student, you have to make sure you come and experience it yourself. It’s a time for the student organizations to showcase what they’re all about at their booths, as well as a time to recognize and appreciate the student body with the various kinds of food, activities and giveaways that are offered. In the past, ResLife brought the dunk tank, LASA provided amazing pastelitos and CAPA gave away free themed t-shirts. The theme this year is Monsters, Heroes and Villains; it’s always fun to see how each club chooses to incorporate the theme into their booth. Personally, my favorite part of Spring Carni has always been the inflatables; they make me feel like a kid again!
Spring Carni is also a time for the musically inclined individuals of the University to showcase their talent in the annual Battle of the Bands Competition. The winner receives a cash prize and all finalists receive a wonderful t-shirt designed by CAPA Marketing Chair Evana Gizzi and the University’s very own Mistress of Graphics Liron Asher and her interns. Preceding the event this year is the University’s first ever Eastfest, held on the Campus Recreation Center Lawn on East Campus on Thursday April 28th. The dining hall will shut down and instead, a bbq will be held outside. There will be music, food, free novelties and an outdoor movie. What better to show than the modern day “hero”, The Green Hornet?
We’re pairing up something old with something new this year and only you can make it a success. Come out and relax, play some games, eat some food and listen to some music before you’re thrown into finals. I promise you will not regret your day. Spring Carnival is from 11-3 at Lester Cushing Field on North Campus. It’s free for students and $3 for the public. See you there!
Posted by: umlstudentactivities on: April 6, 2011
by Fox Common Program Coordinator Pedro Vasquez
Fox Hall Common Happenings
It is obvious to all UMass Lowell students that there are many projects going on around campus to improve the University. The Fox Hall Common is no exception to this. Last fall 2010, the Common had been unavailable to students due to a renovation project that was updating the amenities provided to our students. With the addition of the P.O.D. Convenience Store and the new Taco Bell, the space has become more of a hang out spot of many students. Yet, some may still ask themselves what exactly is the Common? Is it a food eatery on campus? Or a late night hang out spot? Or is it both?
The Common has been created as a Late Night Common space for all students. Our efforts are geared towards establishing an identity among our students-that this, space is 100% for them to use and enjoy. The vast range of programming which occurs in The Common illustrates our attempt to catch the attention of all our students and their varying interests. The month of April showcases to our students the wide range of events available to them during the late night hours. This month we will be hosting an Open Mic Night on April 11th, and 25th. All students are encouraged to sign up via email to FoxCommon@student.uml.edu. Student Government Association has also teamed up with The Common to kick off the Student Government Elections. ROCK THE VOTE will occur on Tuesday, April 12th. On Wednesday, April 13th, the Common Presents Aida Rodriguez, A BET comedian whose sassy and raunchy humor, will keep you laughing all night. Residence Life and The Common joined forces to provide our students with a Karaoke Night on Thursday, April 14th, followed by one of our most successful events, Fresh Fridays, a club style party with one of Boston’s hottest DJ’s. DJ Sisko spinning the best in Hip Hop, Reggae and Dancehall until 2AM, on Friday, April 15th. One of our weekly series of events are the VPAC Music Concerts, sponsored by our Music Entrepreneur club on campus. Every Thursday night, they feature local bands. The musical tastes ranges from acoustic guitars, jam bands, and grunge bands. The Off Broadway Players will also be hosting a Cabaret Night on Wednesday, April 20th. They will showcase their members with solo numbers, duets, and improvisational comedy. Donations will be taken at the door. Lastly on Wednesday, April 27th, The Common Presents the Adult Spelling Bee. And of course, prizes are always provided to our champions! Best of all, all events in The Common are FREE to all students!
Our tagline says it all, “Your Nightlife is Our Business!” and we attempt to fulfill our mission. The Common provides a wide range of events to our students! If you’re looking to relax after a long day of class and enjoy yourself with your fellow students, check out our lineup of monthly events! We are always willing to take new ideas for events. For questions or suggestions please email FoxCommon@student.uml.edu. Find us on Facebook “Fox Hall Common” . See you at our next event!
Posted by: umlstudentactivities on: April 4, 2011
Authoroed by Christian Elwood of the Student Veterans Organization
Everyone is aware that we are at war. Everyone knows someone who is in the service. Everyone probably even has a family member who is serving now or has served. How many times a day do we all think about this fact and what it means, though? It is very easy to become complacent and comfortable with the situations we live in everyday. Now think about those who have been fighting for their lives and all of ours, everyday, for a year straight. While we complain about the weather, nothing being on the television, or having to wait too long for service at a store, there are those who eat once a day, live outside, and worry about not coming home from their next patrol.
My point is not to condemn us for our nature of complacency but to remind us to remember. We have effectively been at war for the better part of a decade and this country, Massachusetts, and even Lowell, have lost sons and daughters in that time. Here at the University, there are close to 600 veterans enrolled in classes this semester. Look around you on campus, chances are you pass by a veteran everyday without knowing it. For some the war has been closer to home than for others and we must all remember to say a prayer, say thank you, donate to a cause, or just silently appreciate the freedoms we have. Going to school, driving to work, playing golf, or visiting family across the country, are all freedoms we have, that are available only because of the brave who have fought for us.
For a veteran it is hard to forget with close friends’ overseas, injuries from war, and brothers lost. As the weather becomes nice and we are all planning vacations, weddings, and outings with friends, let us not forget those who enable us to do so and cannot come home just yet, or ever will. Let us remember their sacrifices and service. Let us remember the Veterans.
Posted by: umlstudentactivities on: March 22, 2011
pring Carnival Applications DUE Friday!!!
Spring Carnival applications are available in the Office of Student Activities and Leadership or online for download at http://tiny.cc/springcarnival.
NEW: Spring Carnival will be held on NORTH CAMPUS (not South!) this year on Friday, April 29 from 11am-3pm.
This year’s theme is Heroes, Monsters, and Villains so get those creative juices flowing!!!
Questions? Traditions@student.uml.edu
