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Around Campus• Letter From the Editor

• DMACC President’s ListPage 2

Urban Spotlight• UCT Program• Breast Cancer

Awareness MonthPage 6

Around Town• Earn More with a Degree

• When Creepy Becomes Criminal

Page 7

Student Voices• Urban Asks

• Join Our StaffPage 8

Around Town• Live in Des Moines

Page 4

Urban Spotlight• Faculty Profile

• New Public Awareness DrivePage 3

Inside This Issue

URBAN VIBEDMACC

October 9, 2014VOLUME 9 | ISSUE: 2

The Urban Vibe is committed to sharing our unique environment at the DMACC Urban Campus

Urban Spotlight• Ebola Epidemic

Page 5

By Vivian Doelue

After decades of civil war in West Africa another war has started again claiming several lives of their citizens. This time around is the deadly and merciless Ebola outbreak. This outbreak is massive and unprecedented in four West African countries: Liberia, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Nigeria.

The number of cases reported in Liberia, the hardest hit nation, has topped 3,455. More than 1,800 there have died. The suspected death toll could be higher than that, with reports that people have literally died in the streets, or of patients being turned away due to overwhelmed treatment centers.

According to the world Health Organization (WHO), the Ebola virus is spreading fast and exponentially. Experts have said Ebola could potentially spread across the globe. A new report suggested that if the virus isn’t curbed, the number of cases could reach up to 1.4 million, compared with the current 5,800.

Dozens of Urban Campus students still have families residing in various parts of West Africa.

Massah Kamara, a second year student from Urban Campus whose dream is to one day to become a public health worker, said, “I have everybody over there in Sierra Leone. My father, my siblings. In fact one of my aunties died, two of her daughters died, her

Ebola Epidemic Affects Urban Campus Studentshusband is the only survivor.

“Everyday people are dying,” she said. “When you prevent something from happening, people would be on the safer side.”

Being “on the safer side” is what most African countries affected by this Ebola virus failed to incorporate in the beginning, with reports of a lack of health workers or proper medical equipment to treat patients presenting bigger obstacles than had been anticipated.

Diseases such as malaria or the Ebola virus, which can leads to symptoms such as severe weight loss and diarrhea, are difficult to treat or control in West Africa. However, they are much easier to control or cure in the Unites States, and the chances of an Ebola outbreak in western world is low.

“We live in an interconnected world where travel is free and easy,” said Jeffery W. Weiss, a professor of political science at DMACC and Grand View University. “Even though Ebola began in a small village, it is not surprising.

“Africans travel from country to country,” he said, noting that something like Ebola could spread, and potentially spread through every corner of the globe.

“Is a mess over there,” said Fatamata Bangura, a Sierra Leonean native and

a nursing student on Urban Campus. “This is like

another war again, and actually I do think

our government overlooked this disease because when it first got discovered in Guinea, they should’ve shut

down the borders. They allowed this

to go on for too long. They don’t care about

their citizens, they don’t care at all, that’s how I see it.”

West African presidents and political leaders, however, praised Obama and expressed support for his announcement in September, the United States would be sending 3,000 troops to West Africa to help set up field hospitals for Ebola patients.

President Ellen Sirleaf Johnson of Liberia

Continued on Page 5

By Heather Carey

It may begin with what seems like an innocent flirtation. In time, this is followed with the reception of persistent, unwanted phone calls. Texts, that at first were suggestive, become annoying, then offensive. Often, they’re followed by feelings of embarrassment or fears of pending violence.

Sexual harassment and even rape happen to a large part of the student population on every college campus, yet more often than not, nothing is done about it due to the victim’s feeling of fear, embarrassment, or simply not knowing the choices the student has to make the harassment stop.

Everyone should take precautions when walking to their homes or cars after class. Be wary of giving out your personal information. Cell numbers are fine, but your schedule or home address is not.

According to the FBI article “Crimes in Schools and Colleges,” college-aged

When Creepy Becomes Criminalstudents are four times more likely to be raped than people in any other age group. One in four women aged 15-24 will be raped in their lifetime, and while men can be rape victims themselves, they are far less likely to report it or to tell a friend.

The college years are exciting times with lots of new people to meet and new places to explore. While students take part in these things, there are some important safety measures to remember.

First, many students spend free time with friends having drinks at parties or in bars. To be on the safe side, never leave your drink unattended. There are also many options available now to test your drink for date-rape drugs such as Rohypnol, XTC, and GHB. The website www.drinksavvy.com sells glasses, cups and straws that change color when they come in contact with date rape drugs, and a new nail polish is available that does the same thing.

Many people think nothing will happen to them, but it can.

In a crowded campus bar in late August, two students, Alex and Morgan, left their drinks

Continued on Page 7

Letter from the Editor Urban Vibe Staff

Faculty Advisor Michael Bryant

Page 2 October 9, 2014

Vivian Doelue

Hello, my name is Vivian Doelue, your Editor-in-Chief for the DMACC student newspaper here on Urban Campus.

My guess is everyone is having a busy and productive semester so far. I am pleased to welcome back all old and new Urban students. We have great issues this semester that I am so passionate about to share.

As we have heard on the news, the Ebola virus is taking away many lives in four West African countries. So I decided to localize this issue, which could potentially lead to global disaster, and how those death cases have affected students on the Urban campus.

We also have a great article written by Jessica Sanchez about DMACC’s University College Transfer (UCT) program. For students who desire to transfer to a four year college, this article will help you better understand how DMACC and help with those opportunities.

Another amazing, eye opening article that will blow your mind is written by Heather Carey. “When Creepy Becomes Criminal” is about the danger we face as students when it comes to sexual harassment or cases of rape on college campuses. It is a must read.

I also had the chance to profile DMACC Urban’s newest full time faculty member, Chelsy Croson, a math instructor and the sweetest individual you could ever meet. And if you are looking for a live band in the Des Moines area, we’ve also got an article to help music lovers find something fun and exciting on the local scene.

Urban students are speaking out loud this semester by expressing their opinions, as well as their likes and dislikes regarding important issues both here on campus and in other parts of the world.

We can not be neutral on a moving train. Therefore, it is important that you tell us how DMACC is changing your life, as well as those changes you would like DMACC to make. The Vibe values your opinions. Please email us them to us at urbanvibe@dmacc.edu. Wishing everyone a successful semester and don’t forget to read the Urban Vibe.

A r o u n d C a m p u s

- Vivian

Vivian Doelue Editor-in-Chief

Jessica Sanchez Staff Writer

Heather CareyStaff Writer

Todd RazorEditorial Advisor

The Des Moines Area Community College Spring 2014 President’s List was released by DMACC President Rob Denson, and is intended to recognize students who have earned a 4.0 grade point average. Those recognized from the Urban Campus for Spring 2014 include:

Cynthia Adams, Human Services, Pleasant HillShemaa Albayati, Liberal Arts, West Des Moines

Sera Alexander, Pre-Health Occupations, Des MoinesAngela Allison, Pre-Nursing, Des Moines

Emily Amonson, Liberal Arts, WaukeeJames Asher, Liberal Arts, West Des Moines

Yancy Aviles-Houk, Pre-Nursing, West Des MoinesLaury Aye, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesDawn Bateman, Pre-Nursing, Ames

Taelor Beeck, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesBryan Berryhill, Computer Languages, Osceola

Fatima Besic, Accounting Certificate I, West Des MoinesElva Beyart, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Joellen Bittner Collins, Pre-Dental Occupations, PleasantvilleGregory Boehne, Liberal Arts, Waukee

David Bolen, Management Information Systems, CliveRaymund Boltron, Business Administration, Des Moines

Jesup Bonnstetter, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesElizabeth Bossenberger, Liberal Arts, West Des Moines

David Bowles, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesDonell Buerckley, Liberal Arts, Van MeterCindy Bulman, Legal Assistant, AnkenyShelby Burns, Legal Assistant, Waukee

Michele Cabal, Associate General Studies, West Des MoinesMonica Campbell, Liberal Arts, JohnstonGabriel Carnes, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Miguel Castellanos, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesCheri Cayou, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Melissa Chapman, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesErin Charbonnet-Baker, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesMarlene Chilton, Pre-Nursing, West Des Moines

Ninzin Conrey, Liberal Arts, UrbandaleEmily Conway, Pre-Nursing, Des Moines

Timothy Cook, Interpretation & Translation-Generic, IndianolaTravis Corlis, Associate General Studies, Des Moines

Jinifer Cox, Liberal Arts, Pleasant HillMaria Cross, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesNhan Dao, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Lindsay Daugherty, Human Services, NewtonJamie Davidson, Business Administration, West Des Moines

Isaac DeFord, Paralegal, PerryKeela Degeest, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Nathan Dengle, Human Services, Des MoinesEmily DePenning, Liberal Arts, Johnston

Sean Devlin, Business Administration, AltoonaJayna Devore, Pre-Nursing, Des MoinesYasoda Dhital, Pre-Nursing, Des Moines

Mark Dickerson, Business Information Systems, Des MoinesDustin Dixson, Accounting & Bookkeeping, Clive

Christina Downey, Early Childhood Education, IndianolaSeyerra Dubois, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesKalee Dykhouse, Human Services, CliveKaitlynn Eden, Liberal Arts, Pleasantville

Theresa Edman, Legal Assistant, Des MoinesSylvia Edwards, Pre-Visual Communications, Chariton

Ebenezer Emunah, Management Information Systems, Des MoinesMarisol Escamilla-Lara, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Satara Fairweather, Associate General Studies, CliveCarolyn Fitzgerald, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Michael Fitzpatrick, Management Information Systems, Des MoinesJason Foley, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Esther Fraser, Surgical Technology, Des MoinesHarprabhjit Gill, Computer Application, CliveTeresa Gilliland, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Kevin Gillispie, Associate General Studies, Des MoinesAimee Gissel, Veterinary Technology, Pleasant Hill

Alex Gitau, Liberal Arts, West Des MoinesMarcia Goffinet, Paralegal, Ankeny

Colby Grabill, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesBrandi Graspy, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesBirkha Guragai, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Lucas Gutknecht, Database Specialist, West Des MoinesMindi Hansen, Pre-Nursing, Newton

Tammy Harper, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesCharles Harris, Business Administration, Urbandale

Benjamin Harsch, Architectural Technology, West Des MoinesRoberta Hastings, Accounting & Bookkeeping, Des MoinesKira Haumersen, Accounting Paraprofessional, Des Moines

Autumn Headlee, Liberal Arts, CarlisleKatherine Healy, Associate General Studies, Newton

Rose Henn, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesHolly Herbert, Pre-Nursing, Des MoinesHaley Hermanson, Liberal Arts, AnkenyKendrick Hill, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Christopher Hilpipre, Web Development, Webster CityThu Trang Ho, Pre-Nursing, Des Moines

Susan Hobson, Liberal Arts, CarlisleDavid Hornberg, Pre-Information Technology/Network

Administration, MarshalltownRobert Howard, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Caitlin Huffman, Liberal Arts, NorwalkShawna Hughes, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesKrystal Jackson, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Stephanie Jacobson, Interpretation & Translation - Health Care, JewellKathleen Jeffries, Interpretation & Translation, Dubuque

Yun Jeong Jeon, Interpretation & Translation, AmesMatthew Johll, Liberal Arts, Winterset

Rick Johnson, Human Services, Des MoinesTammy Johnson, Associate General Studies, IndianolaJoseph Jones, Associate General Studies, Des Moines

Gurjinder Kaur, Liberal Arts, Pleasant HillTracey Kelley, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesMichael Kelly, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesAmanda Kewitsch, Liberal Arts, Waukee

Deanna Klinefeldt, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesDeborah Knowles, Pre-Nursing, Waukee

Mustapha Kromah, Legal Assistant, Des MoinesAshley Kubby, Human Services, Des Moines

Raad Lateef, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesMelissa Lauer, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Tanya Lawrence, Management Information Systems, Des MoinesJaime Lawson, Business Administration, West Des Moines

Daniel LeClair, Liberal Arts, MaxwellTatiana Leclair, Liberal Arts, Maxwell

Garrett Lies, Associate General Studies, MartensdaleKelly Looney, Liberal Arts, Ankeny

Kelsey Lorenz, Liberal Arts, West Des MoinesWilliam Lundbohum, Liberal Arts, PerryIsaura Luong, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Nelson Lutakome, Liberal Arts, JohnstonMazin Mahdi, Liberal Arts, West Des Moines

Amy Main, Liberal Arts, WaukeeSandhya Mainali, Liberal Arts, West Des Moines

Jennifer Mains, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesRobert Majors, Human Services, Des Moines

Ramon Maldonado Marquez, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesRyan Markle-Klapp, Associate General Studies, Urbandale

Katarina Martinsen, Pre-Nursing, Des MoinesMason McCoy, Associate General Studies, New Virginia

Sylvia McGee, Pre-Nursing, AmesEdmir Miljkovic, Business Administration, Urbandale

Tabari Miller, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesKarilyn Miller-Bailey, Early Childhood Education, Johnston

Arianna Molitor, Surgical Technology, Des MoinesAimee Moore, Associate General Studies, Oskaloosa

Brian Muir, Business Information Systems, Des MoinesMaida Mujkic, Human Services, West Des Moines

Nasija Muratovic-Civgin, Liberal Arts, AnkenyRyan Murphy, Liberal Arts, Altoona

Anh Thu Nguyen, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesTrung Nguyen, Business Administration, Des Moines

Betty Nichols-Flam, Associate Degree Nursing, Des MoinesMatthew Nnanna, Business Administration, Des Moines

Eva North, Liberal Arts, AnkenyDaniel OConnor, Associate General Studies, Centerville

Chandria Page, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesKristine Pederson, Liberal Arts, AnkenyJennifer Pham, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Tien Pham, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesEsperanza Pintor, Interpretation & Translation - Health Care, Des Moines

Andrew Polzin, Accounting & Bookkeeping, WoodwardVeronica Posada De Velasco, Office Assistant, Des Moines

Valerie Purvis, Management Information Systems, WoodwardZain Quntar, Liberal Arts, West Des Moines

Tonya Rawlin, Paralegal, IndianolaChris Reyes, Advanced Manufacturing, Ames

Taylor Richard, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesPatricia Richards, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Brian Rittel, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesKarla Rivera, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Holly Rochelle, Pre-Health Occupations, West Des MoinesNicholas Rogers, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Nicole Rogers, Legal Assistant, Des MoinesHaley Ropp, Liberal Arts, Prairie City

Angela Rothfus, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesJuana Rounsville, Early Childhood Education, Des Moines

Kevin Ryan, Business Information Systems, West Des MoinesJeremy Sales, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Benjamin Sargent, Business Administration, GrimesAlesha Schuler, Associate General Studies, Des Moines

Robert Schulze, Liberal Arts, UrbandaleChelsey Selin, Human Services, Des Moines

Jennifer Sengun, Liberal Arts, Ames

DMACC President Rob Denson Releases Spring 2014 List

Continued on Page 7

Page 3October 9, 2014

U r b a n S p o t l i g h t

by Vivian Doelue

Like many teachers before her, Chelsy Croson has been around since January 2011 providing her services to Urban student for the past four years as an adjunct instructor, which is what her undergraduate degree program was in.

Croson who teaches developmental math classes, such as college prep math, elementary algebra and pre college algebra at Urban Campus, earned her master’s degree from Drake University this past spring. Croson said, “It worked out really nicely to come here at DMACC to teach.”

Croson came to DMACC originally because she wanted to get into tutoring students in math “I was working in a different position and I just missed working with students so much,” Croson said, so I decided to come work in the Academic Achievement center (ACC).

She tutored for few years and started teaching classes as an adjunct professor. When a full time position came open to teach math, “she jumped on applying for it.”

“I have been really excited to be on board full time,” Croson said. “I have been here for four years, but this is my first semester being full time.”

Working as a professor in a college that is as diverse as the Urban campus means a lot more to Croson than just a regular teaching job. “It’s awesome,” she said. “For me, having students from different parts of the world with different culture and perspectives creates a unique environment for teaching.”

With her desire to help students reach their potential goals, she is here to make a remarkable difference in the lives of DMACC students. “I think is important to find out what motivates students,” Croson said. “So what that means is, what are your goals? What is it that you want to do? How can I

Faculty Profile: Chelsy Crosonhelp support you in those math classes that you are taking from me in order to reach your goal?”

One of Croson’s strategies for her students this semester is to let them explore individually based on their interests. Croson said, “One thing I’m doing this semester with my math 110 students is giving them an individual project based on what their interests are. So you have to find out where your strength and weakness lies.”

With her motivational attitude for students, a winningly

New Urban Campus Math Instructor Chelsy Croson

sweet personality, and, even underneath it all, Croson has an unbridled sense of drive. The kind of drive geared toward students succeeding in her course as they advance to their next level of education.

Her desire to help students achieve more or do more individually, and independently, in math. From a tutor to a full time faculty member, Urban Campus students are fortunate to have Chelsy Croson on board.

By Renee Schoof

Sept. 18, 2014 – McClatchy Washington Bureau (MCT) – President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden on Friday launched a new public awareness campaign at campuses across America to prevent sexual assaults.

Called “It’s on Us,” the new campaign will try to get students and others on college and university campuses to play a part in trying to stop sexual violence before it happens. A new public service announcement aired for the first time on Friday.

Advocates say many rapes are not reported, and that on campuses the assaults most often occur during women’s first two years at college by someone they know. The new campaign will have a strong focus on engaging collegeage men to take part in bystander intervention and raise awareness of the problem on campuses. RAINN, an antisexual assault group, is one of the groups and companies that make up a partnership with the White House on the campaign.

“One of the most effective ways to prevent rape is to mobilize men and women on campus to join together in stopping perpetrators before they can commit a crime,” Scott Berkowitz, president and founder of RAINN, said in a statement. “RAINN has joined the ‘It’s On Us’ campaign as a partner to help bring attention to the important role that students play in keeping their friends safe and preventing rape on campus. We also need to make sure that if a friend is sexually assaulted, students know how to support him or her and ensure they have access to the help they deserve through the National Sexual Assault Hotline and local resources.”

Other partners include the NCAA; Electronic Arts, a video gaming company that will carry the message on

White House Starts New Public Awareness Drive to Prevent Sexual Attacks on Campus

its games; and Viacom, which will use it on MTV, VH1, BET and CMT. The new public awareness campaign is the latest in a series of steps the White House has been taking recently to reduce campus sexual violence. In 2011, the administration gave guidance to help schools understand their obligations under federal civil rights law to prevent and respond to sexual assaults on campus.

On Friday, the White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault, which was set up in January, also released three documents of best practices to help colleges and universities improve their responses to sexual assault. The documents will be posted on the website NotAlone.gov.

US President Barack Obama speaks at the launch of the ‘It’s On Us’ campaign to prevent sexual assault on college campuses at the White House in Washington, D.C., on September 19, 2014.

(Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT)

Page 4 October 9, 2014

A r o u n d To w n

Some bands on the local scene include:

Pets with Human Names - A dirty, loud and dynamic rock band from Des Moines, Iowa. Starting from a hot storage shed in the summer of 2011, members Andrew Pierson, Alex Nickeson, and Benton Schoenrock have crafted a sound that hits you hard and makes you move.

The Spartan Blue - Jen Allen writes the bones of the songs, playing guitar and writing the lyrics. They are raw, bare pieces of honesty, faults, determination, love, and absolute heartbreak. She is joined by Jay Corigliano, whose diverse experience makes him a powerful addition on the drums, as well as vocal harmonies, adding a unique flavor to this indie rock experience. Jim

Corigliano, Jay’s brother, on bass.

JBJC - Live acoustic from Des Moines, Iowa. Armed with hundreds of original and cover songs, JBJC is capable of playing for days if need be. Self-described as an acoustic music and comedic accident, members include Josh Brainard and Jim Corigliano.

Alchemist - They are a three-piece rock cover band that plays everything from Johnny Cash to Tool. All the members are in original bands, but enjoy doing cover songs they love and like to have fun. Mike Ruby (guitar, vocals) and Rich Cantrell (bass, vocals) are in Cirrus Minor, and Jay Corigliano (drummer, vocals) is in Spartan Blue.

Live in Des Moines!

Singer Jen Allen of Spartan Blue. Photo by Chad Taylor.

The acoustic music and comedic accident known as JBJC.

Alchemist.

The Vaudeville is a much-beloved live music venue on Fourth Street in Downtown Des Moines.

By Heather Carey

Looking for something to do in your free time? Tired of cram sessions and need to expand your horizons? Maybe you’ve just finished exams and are ready to kill a few brain cells. Look no further than the local live music venues all over town!

Des Moines boasts a bevy of local bands, most of which are accessible on Facebook and other social networking sites. Hit up their websites for gig info, or check out the websites for dates and showtimes at venues at House of Bricks, Gas Lamp, Wooly’s and Vaudeville Mews.

Vaudeville Mews located at:

212 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309(515) 243-3270

House of Bricks located at:

525 E. Grade Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309(515) 727-4370

Wooly’s located at:

504 E. Locust, Des Moines, IA 50309(515) 244-0550

Gas Lamp located at:

1501 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50309(515) 280-3778

Page 5October 9, 2014

u r b a n s p o t l i g h t

expressed her gratitude in a statement during her speech in Liberia on September 17. “On behalf of the Liberian people and in my own name, I want to thank president Obama and the American people for scaling up the American response.”

Bangura, who is so passionate and saddened by this massive outbreak, said, “This is not just an African issue. It can be a global thing if nobody take it under control. And since the U.S. has the super power, I think it is better if they stand; then other countries will be willing to along with them. We can contain this back home. We just need technology and help.”

Dr. Samir Koirala, an epidemiologist working with Iowa Department of Public Health, recently spent 25 days in Sierra Leone. The Des Moines Register, citing Dr. Koirala’s remarks during a news conference in mid September, reported that the main problem he saw was a shortage of health workers. Many local doctors and nurses are also afraid to treat patients affected by this virus, he said.

Local Iowans stepped up to make a tremendous effort in supplying meals for these affected patients in West Africa. A nonprofit group ran by Walter Gwenigale, Jr., 42, and his father Walter, 79, who is a doctor and a minister of health in Liberia, along with the Outreach Inc. – based in Iowa – have both combined to have shipped 300,000 high-calorie, vitamin-filled meals to Ebola patients in Liberia.

The Register reported that the shipment had left for Liberia, and another 400,000 meals would be shipped via sea freight once a donor is found to pay the shipping cost. These meals combined will hopefully feed 1,000 patients for about six months.

“The situation is indescribable,” said Gwenigale, who visited Liberia this summer and is also a worker and manager at the veteran medical center in Des Moines. “The destructive nature of Ebola cannot be put into words, especially in a country that was just beginning to rebuild its health care infrastructure after a 14 year civil war.”

Gwenigale Jr., who saw a relief effort and treatment centers there, referred to the Ebola situation as “devastating,” adding that when patients are hospitalized

or isolated, “the government’s funds are very limited to get the food in to the patients.”

Rick McNary, the vice president of strategic partnership for Outreach Inc., which is active in the provision of food for malnourished and impoverished people in Africa, said the nonprofit strives to engage volunteers across America in meal packaging events. The meals headed to Liberia are made of rice, soy protein, vegetables and 21 vitamins targeted to build the immune system.

“We do a lot of work in Africa and have seen people die of starvation there,” said McNary.

“But the critical component for us is the ability to get meals into a safely distributed.”

Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines has stepped up along with the global health ministries to pay for and arrange the shipping of containers. It was reported that the project arose so quickly there wasn’t a single volunteer

group available to package meals, however. Gwenigale Jr. tapped into an existing supply of 300,000 ready meals assembled by groups out of Minnesota and Missouri. His hope was to have the remaining 400,000 meals shipped with the help of donor who had committed to covering shipping fees.

Though the situation in West Africa is getting worse and the outbreak continues, some students on Urban Campus are taking initiative by getting engaged with some charity

events that could raise funds to help people back in West Africa.

Yaser Ibrahim, a DMACC Urban Campus student and native Sudanese, is hosting or participating in two October fundraisers, including a beauty pageant on October 4, at the Voice of Hope center on Douglas Avenue in Des Moines, and a “Liberia Vs. Sierra Leone” soccer game combined with a barbeque the following day at Crossroads Park in West Des Moines. The soccer match beings at 4 p.m.

“I have a lot of Africans that I know from Liberia, Sierra

Leone and Sudan that are affected by Ebola virus,” Ibrahim said. “I try to do whatever it takes to help them.” Ibrahim,

whose cousin is currently affected by the Ebola virus, is passionate to join forces along with the Liberian community in Des Moines in helping Ebola patients throughout West Africa.

The upcoming artist said a third charity event has been planned for October 18, in Kansas City, MO.

Vinton AJ Hookes Jr, a local reporter and publicist for the Liberian Association of Iowa and community, said all proceeds will be matched by the American Red Cross in Iowa, adding that they will be used to

assist the affected countries in West Africa.“All funds will be donated to the American Red Cross,

who will also match us 5050,” he said. “If we raised $5,000, for instance, they will match us $5,000, as well.”

According to WHO, there is currently no vaccine for Ebola. It was introduced into the human population through close contacts with blood or bodily fluids of infected animals like fruits, bats and monkeys. This virus can only be transfer to others after symptoms have begun. Symptoms, however, typically appear between 2 and 21 days after exposure.

The good news? More help is on its way.U.S. officials have announced that a regional command

and control center will be created in Monrovia, the capital of Liberia. U.S engineers will build additional Ebola treatment units in affected areas, and establish a site to train up to 500 health workers per week to care for those affected patients. The United Nations and other international partners have also committed to helping the government of Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea.

“We just have to train our people over there,” Kamara said. “Give them training. It’s not about the medication. Prevention is better than cure.”

President Obama receives a briefing on the outbreak of the Ebola virus in West Africa at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta on Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2014. The purpose of his trip was to thank the scientists, doctors, and health care workers who are helping those affected by the disease at

home and around the world, as well as to discuss the U.S. response to the Ebola outbreak. (Hyosub Shin/Atlanta Journal sConstitution/MCT)

Ebola Epidemic Continued from Page 1

“Everyday people are dying When you prevent something from happening, people would

be on the safer side.” – Massah Kamara, a second-year

DMACC student who dreams of pursuing a career in public health, recently lost family members to the

Ebola virus in Sierra Leone.

“I have a lot of Africans that I know from Liberia, Sierra Leone and Sudan that are affected by

Ebola virus. I try to do whatever it takes to help them.”

– Urban Campus student Yasir Ibrahim, a native Sudanese with a cousin affected

by the Ebola virus, who is rallying with the Liberian community in Des Moines to

join forces in support of patients back in West Africa.

Editor’s Note: The Ebola crisis is being reported on daily by national and international media outlets, and the World Health Organization. For the most current data available regarding reported cases or current death tolls related to the epidemic, find more on the web or your mobile device at www.who.int.

Page 6 October 9, 2014

U r b a n S p o t l i g h t

By Jessica Sanchez

Ever find yourself hitting your forehead, saying, “If only I knew then what I know now.” Well, while it is still now, save your forehead, and your time spent in college by using the University-College Transfer program to plan ahead.

What to know about UCT

1. What is it? The UCT program prepares students for the future by creating an academic plan that prepares those that are going to transfer to a four-year institution.

2. Who do you contact? Email Megan Baker at mmbaker@dmacc.edu or uct@dmacc.edu, or call her office at (515) 9646643.

3. Where is Megan’s office located? Building 1 on the DMACC Ankeny campus, at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd., in Ankeny.

4. Why get involved? UCT assists students by helping them engage in activities and fulfill their educational goals while maintaining a healthy balance.

5. How much is this program going to cost? It’s free. There is no charge in signing up!

Whether this is your first semester at DMACC or your second year, getting involved can aid in making connections, assist you in school work, and maybe prevent a coronary attack from anxiety. It does not matter whether you’re at a four-year institution or earning a two-year degree, an education can be a huge investment. According to The New York Times, more than 70 percent of Americans enroll at a four-year university, yet fewer than two-thirds end up graduating. Including community colleges, the graduation rate drops to 53 percent.

Luckily, one of many programs DMACC has to offer is

Planning Ahead with the UCT Programthe UCT.

This significant program is made to ensure an easy transfer to a university upon completing your associate degree and making DMACC an amazing overall experience. Studies show that students who obtain an associate degree before transferring to a four-year university save money, are more likely to graduate, and become successful in the career they are pursuing.

With that being said, don’t spend your time at DMACC not knowing what courses you are going to need to transfer! College is about finding your strengths, sculpting your dreams, and getting ready for your future. Seems a bit overwhelming, right? Here are some ways the UCT program makes transferring a smooth ride.

Academic advisors and mentors are available to prepare a graduation plan. Get information on courses needed to transfer to a four-year college or university, while at the same time getting involved in activities that will help you gain knowledge with your educational goals in mind.

If you missed any of the welcome events for the program, email uct@dmacc.edu regarding your questions, or schedule an appointment with an academic advisor to discuss the both program and your expectations as an entrant.

DMACC is full of resources, yet it’s your job as a student to seek them out.

Sporting the logo of a community college may not be what people fantasize about when asked, “Where will you be attending college?” Students often presume that going to a university and living on campus is a much better option. However, some students at the University of

Northern Iowa would disagree.Students at UNI have a lot to say as to why they would’ve

liked to start at a community college before transferring to a university. During a recent visit, there was talk of avoiding awkward encounters with roommates, to trying to fit grocery shopping and laundry time in an already busy schedule, and of course figuring out the plan to finance

everything.Jackie Urbina, a freshman

living on the UNI campus said, “You have more time to think about what (career) you want to do while saving money.” She is currently trying out different majors to explore what her interests are. According to NBC

News, roughly 40 percent of those who start a four-year degree program still have not earned one after six years.

Programs and staff at DMACC will gladly elaborate on what classes students will need when transferring and choosing a major, which avoids wasting time and stops future headaches from occurring, with the reality of student loans and tuition clock that doesn’t stop ticking.

Fulfilling basic requirements at DMACC is a great way to save money, and gives people time to decide what their true passions may be. According to the Huffington Post, students who complete an associate degree can save 40 percent or more of the total cost of their undergraduate education!

DMACC also makes transferring an easy transition, both socially and academically. Classes at DMACC tend to be exceptionally small, which provide better one-on-one opportunities with professors versus classrooms that range from 60 to 300 students per classroom.

Jennifer Balcarcel, also a freshman at UNI, said, “It would be awesome if it was easier to get a hold of professors. Being fresh out of high school then going into a college environment had to take on some getting used to also.”

Unlike other campuses, DMACC is extremely diverse, and therefore has smaller classes. This can be especially important for some international students, including those who have difficulty understanding professors who may talk a little fast, as an example. Similar to the diversity of its student population, the resources available through DMACC can help make the best out of your college experience.

Creating clear-eyed decisions about future goals is the first step in higher learning, and making DMACC a part of that journey is the smart step.

Four-year university student Jackie Urbina says, “The food is so good here (at the University

of Northern Iowa), but nothing in these cafeterias could replace my mother’s cooking.”

“College is about finding your strengths, sculpting your dreams, and getting

ready for your future.”

The National Breast Cancer Foundation kicked off its annual promotion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, with a goal of increasing awareness of the disease. Most people are aware of breast cancer, yet, according to the foundation, many forget to take the steps to have a plan to detect the cancer in early stages while encouraging others to do the same.

Celebs, Athletes Racing to Raise Awareness for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

From helping people create an early detection plans to connecting patients, as well as survivors, and their friends or families with educational resources, the National Breast Cancer Foundation also raises awareness via fundraising and helping provide mammograms women in need.

Everyone from major corporations to athletes and celebrities are discovering unique ways to get the word out. Internet domain registrar and web hosting company giant GoDaddy, for instance, is teaming with American racing car driver Danica Patrick to race this month toward stopping the disease in her No. 10 GoDaddy Chevrolet, which will painted bright pink to help advertise breast cancer awareness and importance of fundraising campaigns.

The NBCF says one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and continually touts the importance of early detection.

“My friend had a double mastectomy as a preemptive strike because she actually tested positive for the breast cancer gene,” Patrick said in a release. “She went through everything and hopefully avoided it, but it hit close to home. I think far too many people know someone affected by this disease. We wanted to do something a little different this year, something to honor people who have fought the disease, and we wanted to do it in a way that might help drive donations.”

Patrick will drive her GoDaddy No. 10 Chevrolet wearing a pink fire suit during the last three races Nascar races in October. This year, as part of GoDaddy’s “Put the Brakes on Breast Cancer” campaign, the car will also include names of people impacted by breast cancer.

More information may be found at www.nationalbreastcancer.org, or learn what the Iowa affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Foundation is up to at www.komeniowa.org.

On Oct. 2, Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad signed a Breast Cancer Awareness Month proclamation in his formal office at the State Capitol building.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The NFL and the NFL Players Association are showing support by wearing pink cleats, gloves,

chin straps and footballs with pink ribbon decals. (Jeff Siner/Charlotte Observer/MCT)

Page 7

U r b a n S p o t l i g h tOctober 9, 2014

By Mike Bush

Oct. 1, 2014 – Albuquerque Journal, N.M. (MCT) – A new study that compares the lifetime value of a high school diploma with associate and bachelor’s degrees – and examines the divergent earnings of 80 different college majors – proves that it pays to go to school and that the field of study can be all-important.

Researchers with the Hamilton Project, an affiliate of the Brookings Institution, examined data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey in reaching the conclusion that, regardless of a student’s major in college, a bachelor’s degree means that the typical graduate will earn considerably more than someone with an associate degree and a lot more than a high school graduate.

The median career earnings for graduates with four-year degrees is $1.19 million – $335,000 more than the holders of two-year degrees and twice as much as those with only a high school diploma. However, the study also found that the top tenth of high school graduates earn more than the bottom tenth of college graduates, regardless of the college major.

The earnings were gathered from the weak labor market during and after the Great Recession. Earnings profiles include part-time workers and those who may have experienced layoffs. The data were analyzed and the study written by Brad Hershbein and Melissa Kearney of the Hamilton Project.

University of New Mexico Provost Chaouki Abdallah responded to the findings via email, noting that a college degree “is proven to be beneficial to both individuals and to society at large.” However, he said, it is often the case that the rewards of a higher education are not reflected in salary.

“Many of the societal benefits (healthier, more engaged citizens) cannot be measured in the short term nor can they be reduced to financial metrics,” Abdallah said. “The value of an artist or a philosopher may not be in their earning potential but in their impact on humanity. It is, however, absolutely true, based on the data, that college graduates earn more than those with less education.

“The important caveat here is to focus on graduation rather than simply on college attendance,” he said. “Leaving college without earning a degree may actually set someone back financially.”

Depending on a university graduate’s major, the median cumulative lifetime earnings range from just under $800,000 to just more than $2 million, the study found. College majors that involve quantitative skills – engineering, physics, economics, finance, and computer science, operations and logistics – tend to provide the highest earnings.

Study: People With a Degree Tend to Earn More Over a LifetimeIndeed, the top nine majors as far as earnings are concerned

are all facets of engineering. Chemical engineering tops the list, followed by aerospace engineering, energy and extraction engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering.

On the other end of the spectrum, university graduates who work in early childhood education earn the least. The second-lowest paying career is family and consumer sciences, followed by theological and religious vocations. Next on the list are fine and studio arts, social work and elementary education.

Regardless of the level of education, annual earnings tend to level off and even decline after 25 to 35 years. A few majors, notably engineering, crest at about $100,000 annually, while others, such as fine arts, social work and some education fields, barely break $40,000.

In a previous analysis, the Hamilton Project placed the cost of a bachelor’s degree – tuition and fees, room and board, course materials and lost wages while in school – at $102,000.

Because the typical college graduate, regardless of major, can expect to earn at least $200,000 more than a

high school graduate, the cost of a college education will eventually pay off.

In conclusion, the study noted that college degrees “may not be a guarantee of higher income, but they come closer than just about any other investment one can make.”

“Importantly, the higher earnings associated with obtaining a bachelor’s degree, even in low-earning fields in the humanities and education, stand up when accounting for the risks of unemployment and underemployment. … Even college graduates who begin their careers in a recession with a relatively low-earning major will still earn more over their lifetimes than individuals with just a high school diploma,” the researchers said.

A top official at Central New Mexico Community College agreed. “This study reinforces the lifelong importance of becoming a college graduate,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs Sydney Gunthorpe. “Each level of higher education that a person achieves – whether it’s a certificate or an associate degree at a community college, or a bachelor’s or graduate degree at a university – provides them with greater earnings potential and a much better chance for a desirable quality of life.”

When Creepy Becomes Criminal Continued from Page 1

Errin Sharp, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesLinsey Short, Business Administration, Des MoinesNancy Shryock, Environmental Science, Ellsworth

Chelsie Smith, Pre-Nursing, CarlisleLydia Smith, Pre-Health Occupations, Newton

Theresa Smith, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesKhu Soe, Pre-Nursing, Des Moines

Kayla Sowder, Accounting Paraprofessional, Des MoinesAugust Stangl, Management Information Systems, Des Moines

Ruth Stover, Legal Assistant, Des MoinesEmily Stueckrath, Legal Assistant, Windsor Heights

Cheryl Taylor, Pre-Nursing, IndianolaUyen Ton, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

Cole Toovey, Liberal Arts, Des MoinesAlyson Trotter, Paralegal, Boone

Kelsey Trower, Legal Assistant, Des Moines

Ra Tun, Pre-Nursing, Des MoinesMollie Tungland, Liberal Arts, North Richland Hills

Robert VanDyke, Accounting & Bookkeeping, Des MoinesSheri Veber, Visual Communication, Elkhart

Carissa VerPloeg, Associate General Studies, Des MoinesDebra Vinje, Business Administration, Ankeny

Vy Vo, Business Administration, CliveDaniel Voss, Liberal Arts, Atkins

Correy Wallace, Business Administration, Des MoinesJennifer Wasko, Liberal Arts, Altoona

Kimmy Wellons, Human Services, Des MoinesSarah Wiemann, Accounting & Bookkeeping, Des Moines

Rosemary Wilson, Business Administration, WaukeeKatelyn Wiseman, Liberal Arts, KnoxvilleYvette Young, Pre-Nursing, Des Moines

Stephanie Zaldana, Associate General Studies, Des MoinesSara Zaragoza, Liberal Arts, Des Moines

unattended, covered only by a coaster, while they went to the restroom. Being questioned upon their return by an onlooker about the naiveté of leaving drinks unattended, Morgan said, “I just trust people.”

Alex said they should be careful, so they covered their drinks. “Nothing’s going to happen here anyway,” said Alex. “We know everyone.”

When the onlooker reminded them that they didn’t know her and that access to their drinks would have been much too easy, Alex said that it hadn’t occurred to them that they had only just met. Nor did it occur to them that their drinks could have been tampered with.

In the event that you have become a victim of sexual harassment, your first step should be to contact DMACC Campus Security at (515) 248-7200. Afterward, there is a process in place, and that begins with filing a report on the www.dmacc.edu website. Under “Students” look for “Student Conduct,” and then “Report Misconduct.” There you will find the appropriate forms. Next, print and give a copy of your report to a counselor in Building 1.

The issue will be handled for you, and most importantly, with you. Counselors are available. Call Dale Chell at (515) 697-7727 and Pamela Parker at (515) 697-7791.

President’s List Continued from Page 2

Page 8 October 9, 2014

Do you have a question that you’d like the Vibe to

ask students for 2014? E-mail us at

urbanvibe@dmacc.edu! Contact mkbryant@dmacc.edu for more information.

Join Our Staff: We Need You!!The Urban Vibe is accepting applications for the up-coming semesters.

Writers and photographers

needed.

Earn three hours of class credit

Looks great to have “published author” on

your résumé!

URBAN ASKSS t u d e n t Vo i c e s

The Vibe’s editor and staff ask around and seek out views and opinions on and about DMACC Urban Campus.

“I think DMACC students should have a fundraiser. African students need to make an organization or whatever. If we have an

organization, I can bring out my ideas.” – Fatamata Bangura,

a DMACC nursing student

Read this issue’s cover story by Vibe Editor Vivian Doelue to learn more

about what’s going on with the Ebola crisis in West Africa, and the far-reaching impact it is having on the lives of students

and their families with ties to DMACC Urban Campus. Turn to Page 1 to see

how DMACC students are supporting relief efforts from right here in Des Moines

and the Midwest.

How can DMACC get involved in the global community?

“It a decent school, good program for nursing students. Graduating is my main goal.”

– Mariam Gonzalez, a first year nursing student

“DMACC school books should be a lot cheaper because they are less expensive online.”

- Ilham Dawood (Ella), a DMACC nursing student

“Collection of soccer jerseys.” - Misael Chavez,

a DMACC student studying Fitness & Sports Management student

No. I don’t know what it is, I don’t know where they are located on campus.

I didn’t know DMACC had a newspaper.” - Rita Gonzalez

“I like that DMACC is not just a school for the young, but has a nice diversity of age. I would like to see a building that had recreational area

and fitness center like the Ankeny campus.” - Deborah Daily,

a second year DMACC student

“To fly.” - Tarik Zaki,

a DMACC ESL student

“Toenail clippings.” Shannon Kaster, a DMACC Liberal Arts student

What are your thoughts for DMACC as a new student?

What are your dislikes and concerns this semester?

What is your weird addiction?Have your heard about the Urban Vibe?

What superpower would you like to have, if any?

What do you like about DMACC?

What is your weird addiction?