Bears are Smoke-Free

Posted on November 29, 2013 by alicroom

By TJ Partida

This past Thursday morning, I was beyond excited to see something that would change campus forever: an email declaring Baylor smoke-free effective Aug. 11, 2014. You would think Baylor would be smoke and tobacco-free already, just because of how beautiful campus is. Strangely enough, we do have those folks who huff and puff cigarettes throughout the day. In fact, one of my best friends is so avid about this policy that she ripped someone’s cigarette out of their hand and tossed it because, in our opinion, it just shouldn’t be a welcomed habit on campus.

We have created a Student Smoking Policy website dedicated to raising awareness and discouraging people from lighting up on campus. Now, this policy can’t officially be enforced through fines or tickets, but this movement is definitely going to raise awareness and create a culture that’ll prevent students and faculty from blowing smoke. To put it in perspective, think of it as a positive form of peer pressure making it unthinkable to smoke on Baylor’s gorgeous campus. I mean come on, would you really want to mess this up?

That’s all I’m going to say because I’m clearly passionate about this issue. So when you guys get here, don’t be afraid to tell someone to quit it. This movement just solidifies Baylor’s beauty holistically.

The Baylor Marina

Posted on November 28, 2013 by alicroom

By Ashley Woo

The Baylor Marina is something I did not discover until my junior year. Tucked right next to the athletic complex, the Marina is truly one of Baylor’s hidden gems. Located on the banks of the Brazos River, it is a place where students can come who are looking for a study break or just a place to have fun. Whether it is kayaks, canoes, paddleboats or stand-up paddleboards – the Baylor Marina has it all, and it’s FREE for all Baylor students.

However, in my opinion, the best feature of the marina – the peaceful environment – cannot be measured by any monetary value. When I went for the first time, I was expecting to have fun with my roommates but who knew that it would actually be one of the most relaxing days that I have ever experienced at Baylor. Because it is right next to campus, you are still able to see some of the main buildings of Baylor while canoeing down the Brazos. However, you also get a perfect mix of nature as well. Here are just some pictures that I took during my first time at the Marina.

If you are looking for a fun, relaxing, FREE and scenic afternoon, you should definitely head down to the Baylor Marina. With a valid student ID, you have access to kayaks, canoes, lifejackets and more!

The Chime of the Baylor Bells

Posted on November 7, 2013 by alicroom

By Laura Beth Moore

Nothing feels more collegiate than hearing the chime of the Baylor Bells. While giving campus tours, I would always point out the grand tower and wonder about the mysterious woman who rang the bells. When I was assigned a photo story for my journalism class, I decided to go and actually meet her.

Not only is Lynnette Geary the Baylor carilloneur but she is also the assistant to the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. A couple of weeks ago, I literally walked into her office to see if she would be the focus of my photo story. After we finished chatting, she agreed to take me to the top of Pat Neff Hall to watch her play the Baylor carillon.

Going to the top of Pat Neff has always been on my “Baylor bucket list.” It’s one of those “special access” and prominent features of Baylor. As we hiked up the stairs, the green-shaggy carpet and bamboo wallpaper made me feel like I was going back to life at Baylor in the ’60s. On our way up, Mrs. Geary walked me through the history of the bells. Trustee Cullen Thomas gave the original 25-set in Dec. 1939. Later in 1988, the family of Regent Emeritus Drayton McLane (whom the Student Life Center is named after) replaced the 25-set with the current 48-bell set. Mrs. Geary said all 48 bells were lined on Fountain Mall for people to go and look at before they were installed. Fun fact, the Doxology was the first song ever played on the Baylor carillon.

Mrs. Geary lights up talking about her attraction to music. “There are some things that words and actions can’t express and music can,” she expressed to me. For several Baylor students, including myself, the chime of the bells is the sound of Baylor. At first, the bells are just a pleasant melody to listen to when walking to and from class. Then, with each passing semester, the chime of the bells serve as reminder that this is home.

The bells have been a familiar chime to me since I was a little girl. When we visited Baylor, a huge smile would always come across my dad’s face as the chime would play. It was like the familiar melody was taking him back to his favorite memories at Baylor.

“The bells are a part of the landscape of the college. We have brick buildings, the beautiful flowers and the historic bells that give a sense of tradition and connection that you just don’t get anywhere else,” said Mrs. Geary. “When alums come for Homecoming and hear the bells, there’s a sense, and you hear them say so. You can see it on their faces. This is where my life began, and this is what got me started on my way. This is my anchor.”

Like my dad and other alumni, the various traditions of Baylor, including the ringing of the bells, not only make Baylor distinct but are also what makes us feel at home.

For more information check out this video from Baylor:

Baylor Squirrels – They’re kind of a Big Deal

Posted on November 6, 2013 by alicroom

By Brooks Goodwin

The campus is one of the best parts about Baylor, in my opinion. From the buildings to the trees to the overall feel, there’s just something special about it. With that being said, there’s one more aspect of campus that you may not know about but happens to be one of my favorite – the Baylor squirrels.

Seriously, there are a TON of squirrels everywhere. And, if you happen to be like me and have a strange love for squirrels, it can be pretty exciting getting up close and personal with one of these little critters on your way to class. Because these squirrels live on campus and are used to being around college students on a regular basis, they will let you get fairly close to them. This can lead to some pretty great photos, as I’ve put in this blog post.

The funny thing is that no matter how many times I run into one of these squirrels, it is equally exciting every time. And, I know I am not the only one. I constantly see people whipping out their phone to snap a quick pic or just stop to watch them for a few seconds. This definitely makes me feel better, knowing that I’m not the only one with an affinity for the Baylor squirrels. And, I hope it will make you feel better when you come to campus and have the urge to take their picture too!

As I said in the title, these squirrels are kind of a big deal. Not in the sense that they are often talked about, but everyone on campus notices them and knows how cute they can be. In addition, the Baylor squirrels have an ‘official’ Facebook page with a pretty nice following of more than 3,000 likes.

Now, you might be thinking to yourself, “Why did I just read a blog about squirrels?” Well, really I just wanted to make a point that if even a small part of the experience at Baylor – such as squirrels on campus – can be this exciting, just imagine the possibilities if you decide to attend. Over the years, I have definitely learned to appreciate the little things in life, and seeing one of the Baylor squirrels while walking to class happens to bring me joy. Squirrels may not make you happy like they do me, but I guarantee that something will.

You’ll Never Have to Leave Campus

Posted on October 30, 2013 by alicroom

By Michael Allen

One of the many things that adds to Baylor University is all of the restaurants throughout the campus. Baylor has many on-campus dining options that might be unknown until you make it inside Baylor’s doors.

In the Baylor Sciences Building (BSB), there is a Which-Wich Superior Sandwiches and Moe’s Southwest Grill that allow students to grab a quick meal between classes without having to walk or drive anywhere. For science majors who spend a majority of their time in the BSB, these restaurants are close, convenient and cheap.

At the Student Union Building (SUB), there are a wide variety of restaurants from which students can choose. No matter if you’re in the mood for Chinese, Mexican, or American style foods, Baylor’s got them all! The SUB has a Panda Express, Chick-fil-A, Mooyah Burgers, Ninfas, Einstein’s and a Quiznos Subs. I personally enjoy grabbing a Chick-fil-A sandwich without having to drive to one of the further off-campus locations.

Many student’s favorite location is the full service Starbucks that offers many different pastries as well as sandwiches and salads. Located in the lobby of the Moody Library, it is constantly busy, especially during midterms and finals. It’s also a good place to grab a morning snack and coffee before heading to class.

Another great aspect of eating on campus is the easy to use Dining Dollars program. While the meal plans can be only be used at the dining halls, Dining Dollars can be used at any of the restaurants on campus with a simple swipe of a student ID card. This allows students to grab a meal without carrying around cash or a credit card. Dining Dollars are usually included in the meal plans.

As you can see, Baylor makes sure to take care of its students and staff by offering several dining options in addition to the residential dining halls. While there are other good restaurants near campus, it’s hard to beat the convenience of these on-campus locations.

Coffee Break

Posted on October 24, 2013 by alicroom

By Laura Beth Moore

I don’t know about you, but I love holding a warm, soothing cup of coffee. I used to make fun of my sister’s obsession with coffee. However, I must admit there’s something special about the rich taste and variety of flavors offered to coffee lovers. In the morning, you might want a rich, hardcore flavor to wake you up, but there are other times when you might prefer a little extra sweet sauce. If you are a coffee fan, I’d love to introduce you to a few of Baylor’s on-campus coffee locations.

Starbucks – Winner of the most popular award for its convenient location at the front of Moody Library. Just last night I walked into “Club Moody” – as commonly called by students – and couldn’t help but notice that Starbucks cups seemed to be a common accessory among students. With at least two hours worth of reading to finish, I decided to pick up my own study aid for the night by ordering a tall Café Mocha. Now with my cup in hand, I confidently walked to a study nook ready to take on my psychology and history readings.
Atrium Café – For pre-med and science majors, this will mostly likely be your first stop for coffee with its location in the Baylor Science Building. The café offers a variety of drinks from café mochas, chai lattes and more.
Einstein Bros Bagels- When I have classes in the center of campus, I’ll usually pick up some coffee at Einstein’s Bros Bagels located in the Student Union Building. Einstein’s offers a variety of at least four regularly brewed coffee flavors along with Caramel Macchiatos, Americanos and more. It’s a great place to mix and mingle with friends in-between classes.
Bobo Spiritual Life Center – One of the best-kept secrets at Baylor. The Bobo Spiritual Life Center actually offers free coffee for students every day. However, let me warn you; I’ve tried going in the afternoon, and it’s usually already out. After you grab a cup of free coffee, you can kick back and relax in the living room style study area for students.

If you find yourself in need of a little energy boost before hitting the books, be sure to check out these four on-campus options.

Leaves

Posted on October 21, 2013 by alicroom

By Mary Margaret Hambuchen

Fall Break is upon us. As I walked from class late last Thursday afternoon to my apartment, campus was silent. The shuffle of freshman loading their cars and hurrying off to embrace their anxiously waiting families had long subsided. Strange as it was to witness such a dead campus, it gave me the opportunity to experience how beautiful my home really truly is. In the midst of all the craziness of midterms, papers, homecoming preparation and social events, life occasionally throws you these beautiful little moments where you are reminded of how incredibly thankful you should be.

Baylor is an amazing place. It has allowed me to grow, change and become who I am supposed to be. But, sometimes in the midst of the buzz of everyday life, you forget what it is that this place is teaching you. So, bare with me for a few moments while I explore what it is that Baylor is teaching me.

During the past two years, Baylor has taught me to:

Laugh and love life with some of the most incredible friends a girl could ask for.
Know that life is a learning process, and it won’t be easy all the time.
Build incredible relationships with faculty that care about my entire wellbeing.
Become a leader in group organizations that have taught me servant leadership.
Experience the huge Baylor family that has loved me so intentionally.
Realize that I have an incredible support system to help me through!

Just a few pictures to demonstrate my points…

As the leaves begin to fall and you make big decisions about college, take a moment to be thankful for what it is you have been blessed with.

Happy Baylor Fall everyone!

Late Night Strolls (by Grant Siluangkhot)

Posted on February 11, 2013 by michellerava

I never used to go out in the middle of the night and take walks before I left Houston. I’m not quite sure why it’s different now that I’m at Baylor. Actually, I would be a bit apprehensive of doing the same back home.

There’s something about the Baylor campus at night that I enjoy. Even with the occasional tennis match and Ultimate game going on, the campus is stiller― more peaceful. There’s no time or place for the many eyes to watch me rush to class or to a meeting. It’s just me, the cool fresh air, and the stars.

Perhaps what I like about the campus at night is the fact that I can lie in the cold grass on a hill and not expect to be bitten by little critters in the ground. That I can look up through the winter branches and see the night sky. That I can see Pat Neff Hall light the night green. That I can walk around the corner and see the La Lola Loca food truck.

I’m safe here. With the words of ancient wisdom scattered across the sidewalks and buildings, I am welcomed to pause, and to think. The trees call me to sit and relax. Every so often I see the shadows of night walkers like me. Of backpackers coming from late night studying at the Moody Library. Of pairs of joggers huffing on their late night laps on the Bear Trail. Among them are friends―some old, some new, and some I’ve yet to meet. This is Baylor campus at nighttime. This is home.

Wear Pants! (by Grant Siluangkhot)

Posted on October 17, 2012 by michellerava

Can’t wait to hear another freshman horror story from Grant? Well, wait no longer! A while back, when I first started classes at Baylor, I was excited to start a new routine and go to my new lab classes; after an interesting morning of Japanese and Chemistry, I merrily headed to my chemistry lab.

Because I had a few minutes before lab, however, I stopped to check if I was prepared. I had viewed the PowerPoint slides and took the pre-lab quiz the night before, my cleanly stapled summary and syllabus were with me – I was all set. Feeling ready for lab, I walked in the room to see everyone in lab coats. And me? No lab coat.

I could see signs posted with “PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT REQUIRED,” and with the multiple reminders about appropriate attire online, I could tell that the lab people were very strict on dress code. Lab was going to start in 2 minutes, but I knew I wouldn’t be able to do the lab if I didn’t have my coat.

Then I did what my little freshman brain thought was best to do. I ran for my dorm. The BSB, where my lab is, happens to be on the other side of the universe to Brooks College, my residence hall. I tore into my room, heaving from my sprint, and rummaged through my drawers and closet to find my lab coat and goggles. (I’m glad that I remembered to grab my goggles, too.)

That’s my dorm on the lower left and the BSB is on the upper right – clear on the other side of the Baylor universe!

My roommate saw that I was freaking out and asked what was going on. I said something along the lines of “Forgot my lab coat! Started 10 minutes ago! I was so ready for the lab. I had everything done! Can’t believe I did this!” and dashed back to the BSB.

When I got back to my chem lab, I was sweating, smelly, and feeling lost. Everyone had already started, so I had to hunt down the lab assistant who was busy going around guiding other students. Eventually, I got my lab instructions and my own station. I was relieved.

That’s when some lab official comes in and says to the class, “You can’t do lab if you’re wearing shorts. You need to wear pants!” OH NO. I’M WEARING SHORTS. In my lab coat rush I had forgotten the other part of those email reminders. I couldn’t imagine missing anymore lab, so I talked to the lab assistant and he let it slide—this time. Phew!

YES! I am so glad I got to do my first chemistry lab, especially after being late and wearing shorts. Here’s the thing, I had Bio lab next. They happen to have the same policy and whoops, still no pants. Luckily, I got by again because it was only the first week. I know that others weren’t so lucky. Some students were sent back to change to the appropriate attire.

On the first day of lab I was late and sweaty. I did not want to go through that again, so I made sure that I had many reminders on my phone and in my room.

. . . And that is the story behind why all the Tuesdays on my calendar have WEAR PANTS written on them.

Beauty of Baylor (by Gerald Cofer)

Posted on September 4, 2012 by alexistadda

My experience at Baylor has truly been inspirational, and has made a major impact on my life. Because of Baylor I am now able to see clearer and understand things more in depth. There are rare moments in your life when you have an experience that changes your life forever, and those moments will never fade into a memory but will always be everlasting imprints on your life that you carry with you everywhere you go, and Baylor has been one of those moments.

Welcome week, wasn’t just a week to join many activities, or learn the geography of Baylor, but to me it was a week of newness. During welcome week I was instantly plugged into the Baylor mainframe and was able to download and absorb the love and energy given to me by welcome week leaders, community leaders, staff, and also friends that I met along the way. There was never a dull moment on campus, nor did I ever blink my eyes out of fear of missing something extravagant and beautiful.

Not only does the campus depict it’s beauty at night but during the day while navigating the campus… and you feel the beautiful oozing spirit of Baylor.

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