The Western Howl, Author at The Western Howl

Written by:Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

As of Nov. 1 2022, Western’s General Scholarship Application is open for students seeking financial aid for the 2023-2024 academic year, with a deadline of Mar. 1. If students are discouraged from applying for scholarships, they are not alone. Scholarships tend to be highly competitive, making it seem as if the odds of being awarded one are slim to none. Here are six tips to help make scholarship applications less daunting.

Make an impression. This may seem obvious, but the standard for neatness and specificity in scholarship essays is often ignored. These attributes encompass many aspects of the application process. When filling out scholarship forms, the key is to formulate a chain of working drafts, working off one form in order to perfect the other. When writing an essay, include concrete details and examples of one’s accomplishments. A good rule of thumb to make the writing process smoother is to include the standard “who,” “what,” “where,” “when” and “why.”

Create a list of your good traits. Today, there are scholarships available for nearly every individual trait, from nationality, one’s spoken languages, first generation students and students who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. Students often believe that applying for a broader, general scholarship increases their chances of being awarded. However, students who apply for trait-specific scholarships have a smaller pool of applicants to compete against.

Apply for small awards. If there is a scholarship that fits one’s qualifications but is offering a small award, don’t overlook it. Small awards can add up quickly. In addition, small awards tend to have less competition than larger awards.

Take advantage of ScholarshipUniverse. ScholarshipUniverse, available through the WOU portal, includes an integrated search engine for more than 8000 scholarship opportunities. ScholarshipUniverse has an integrated questionnaire, which narrows down scholarships according to the student’s qualifications and individual traits.

Complete the full application, including the optional work. Many scholarship applications provide students with “optional” application materials, such as essays, letters of recommendation, or even something humorous, such as a joke. While it may sound exhausting to complete this additional and very much optional piece of work, it may increase one’s chances of being awarded against more qualified applicants who failed to complete it.

Reapply. Scholarships are not a one-time deal. Even if a student fails to secure financial aid from a particular scholarship, it is wise to reapply. In fact, the next application process will roll out much smoother than the first application process, considering the student is already well-versed in the process.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

The Western Howl

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Explore Next Door

Written by: Jude Bokovoy

Monmouth is at the center of an assortment of towns and cities, giving students an opportunity to explore different places, most of which are only a short drive away. Take a look at the list below for inspiration for one’s next day trip.

Dallas — Bike or walk along the Rickreall Trail System. This trail weaves in and out of trees, parks and along the creek throughout the town. For a bite to eat, go to Spoon N Folks Thai Cuisine for a thai iced tea, noodles or curry — all for a reasonable price. For students over 21 years of age, there are a few bars that have free pool nights as well as darts and karaoke.

Salem — Try breakfast at Isaac’s Downtown for coffee, bagel sandwiches and pastries. Bush’s Pasture Park is a great place to take a peaceful stroll. The Riverfront Park is another great place for a walk; during the spring one can go down to the dock to feed grown ducks and baby ducklings, then head to Basil and Board for unique individual pizzas for lunch. Whether it’s the mall or a museum, both are great places to kill some time. Sip on a cocktail while sharing an appetizer with friends during happy hour at Ritter’s Housemade Foods. For dinner, have some tacos or pasta at the Masonry Grill.

Corvallis — Grab a cup of coffee and a plant at Greenhouse Coffee and Plants. Pick up a sweet or savory crepe at the Saturday Corvallis Farmers Market. For those who enjoy hiking or mountain biking, the Oregon State University McDonald-Dunn Research Forest is a great place to visit. Have a sandwich and side salad at downtown’s Bodhi Cafe and Bakery. Watch a movie at Darkside Cinema or roll a strike at Highland Bowl. End the day with a burger and fries at Bo and Vine Burger Bar.

McMinnville — This town is full of galleries for those who appreciate art. Those who are 21 and older can enjoy wine tastings and tours at a variety of wineries. Experiment with a variety of “tapas” at La Rambla Restaurant and Bar— warning, it can get pricey. Spend the rest of the time exploring all of the cute shops downtown.

Lincoln City — The beach is a great place to fly a kite, find shells, explore and relax while watching the sunset. Order a burger and fries at HWY 101 Burger and play a game of pool. If shopping is a hobby, look no further, the Lincoln City Outlets are full of rare and popular stores. There are also lots of shops and restaurants to choose from when walking along the downtown strip.

Portland — Drive an electric scooter along the riverfront while taking in the beautiful scenery and getting the city feel. Try creative sandwiches at Lardo for lunch. Explore the Alberta Arts District by going into small shops, visiting hidden food trucks then getting a scoop at Salt and Straw Ice Cream. Test one’s capacity for heat with a chicken slider and fries at Dave’s Hot Chicken. Portland has plenty of things to do, just search up one’s desires and chances are that Portland has it.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

The Western Howl

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Pleasing Pasta

Written by: Jude Bokovoy

Searching for a simple, quick and healthy pasta recipe? Take a gander at the recipe below to see if it sounds like it would be up one’s alley.

LEMON KALE AND PARMESAN RIGATONI

Start to Finish: 15 minutes

Yields: 2 servings

½ bag of rigatoni

½ of a lemon

3 large kale leaves

4 tablespoons olive oil

2 garlic petals

5 tablespoons parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon seasonings of choice

Start by putting four cups of water into a pot over heat to boil. In the meantime, remove garlic petals from the clove. Smash petals with the back of a knife to flatten then place in a warm pan with two tablespoons of olive oil. When water is boiling, place kale leaves into the pot until soft. It should take around three minutes. When ready, put the kale leaves into a blender by using tongs, then add garlic and olive oil. Add seasonings then blend until smooth. Bring another four cups of water to boil then add pasta to cook. While pasta is cooking, add the sauce into a pan to reheat (if using red pepper flakes this is a great time to add them). Once pasta is done, add to the pan and fold until pasta is evenly coated. Plate then sprinkle with parmesan cheese. One can find a video tutorial on the Tik Tok account @justines.table.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

The Western Howl

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Get to Work

Written by: Mikayla Coleman

First developed by psychoanalyst Carl Jung, shadow work is described by medicalnewstoday.com as a type of therapy that focuses on the shadow self — a hidden or repressed part of the psyche. The goal of shadow work is to combine the shadow self and the present psyche of a person so that repressed impulses can be managed in a healthy way.

Listed below are a variety of shadow work journal prompts curated to encourage one to better connect with themselves, explore the depths of their history and become more aware of their unconscious mind.

What do you need more of in your life?
When are you hardest on yourself? Where do you think this stems from?
What do you consider yourself to be morally passionate about? Why?
How do you typically react when you are angry? Is this similar to individuals who have been in your life since childhood?
What negative emotions do you avoid? Why?
How do you want people to feel around you?
What are you most passionate about?
What drains you? What excites you?
What are your priorities?
If you could write a letter to a person who hurt you, what would you say?
When did you recognize your parents/guardians are not perfect?
How much do you think you rely on external validation? How do you feel you could improve with this?
What do you know today that you did not know about this time last year?
What was your favorite activity as a child? Do you still participate in it?
What things are you looking forward to in your lifetime?
What are qualities and traits in others that you admire?
What does being confident look like? What does it feel like?
How do you show compassion to others? How can you extend that same compassion to yourself?
What emotions do you find hardest to accept? How do you handle these emotions?
How do you handle change? Why do you think that is?
How would you define your personal spirituality?

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

The Western Howl

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Campus Job Posting

Written by: Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

Having a tough time finding job opportunities? This winter term, Western is offering various job and volunteer opportunities for students. Full position descriptions can be found in their respective applications.

Paid Positions

Copy Center Student Employee

Employees answer print requests, prepare print materials for Western community and faculty and provide customer service to patrons. The application can be found on HandShake.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour

Application Deadline: Jan. 30

Campus Dining Barista

Campus Dining is seeking students to work as cashiers and baristas for The Press and Caffé Allegro. Barista experience is preferred, but not required. The application can be found on HandShake.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour

Application Deadline: Feb. 1

Leadership Positions

To apply for all four positions, visit https://forms.gle/8w6SocJE1nRREsL78

Campus Ambassador

Campus Ambassadors work directly with prospective students and their families, providing tours and hosting panels, as well as working on Western’s Preview Days. Ambassadors receive spring term training.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour

Application Deadline: Jan. 31

Destination Western Peer Advisor

Peer Advisors welcome new students to campus through a summer live-in orientation program. Advisors receive spring term training and summer training. The program runs from Sept. 4 to 15.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour; $14.18/hour for bilingual workers

Application Deadline: Jan. 31

PLUS Team Peer Advisor

The PLUS Team assists in Summer Orientation and PACK Welcome Week. Members receive spring term training, summer orientation and summer training. Peer advisors must be available during PACK Welcome Week, which runs from Sept. 17 to 23.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour; $14.18/hour for bilingual workers

Application Deadline: Jan 31

Resident Assistant

Resident Assistants work directly with students to provide support and guidance, and are expected to have knowledge of campus resources, good rapport and the ability to work cooperatively with other members of the University Housing staff. Resident Assistants receive spring training and are expected to be available for pre-fall preparations.

Pay Rate: Room and meal plan, plus a stipend of $100/month

Application Deadline: Jan. 31

Student Building Manager

This student leadership paraprofessional position manages the Werner University Center when Student Engagement professional staff are not present, supports the Student Engagement mission and supervises a number of other student employment positions.

Pay Rate: $14.25/hour

Application Deadline: none

Application Link: https://wou.presence.io/form/student-building-manager-application

Student Custodian

This position does non-technical, entry level cleaning in the Werner University Center.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour

Application Deadline: none

Application Link: https://wou.presence.io/form/student-engagement-student-employee-job-application

Upwards Bound Student Tutor and Mentor

Upward Bound (TRIO) is a college preparatory program for high school students from low-income and/or first-generation backgrounds. Participants for the mentor program provide tutoring in general high school subjects and provide guidance, information and support to participants in preparing for college.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour

Application Deadline: none

Application Link: wou.edu/upwardbound/studentpositions/

Volunteer Positions

Multicultural Representatives Mentor

As an MCR mentor, students will serve as a mentor and guide to new students from first generation, low income and/or underrepresented backgrounds. The mentorship position is for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Application Deadline: Feb. 19

Stitch Closet Volunteer

Volunteers for the Stitch Closet commit to volunteering a minimum of three hours per week for a term. Volunteers assist in restocking clothing racks, keep storage areas organized and clean, helping coordinators process clothing donations and welcome students.

Discover Leadership Mentor

The Discover Leadership Mentor role is a volunteer position that focuses on providing support and mentorship to students enrolled in the Discover Leadership program. Mentors will receive training and must be available for mentor meetings, a Discover Leadership course and scheduled day retreats.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

The Western Howl

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The Press Resumes Operations

Written by:Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

Campus Dining’s The Press café is set to resume operations during the second week of winter term, according to Director of Campus Dining, Albert Worotikan.

The Press, a coffee shop located on the left side of the first floor of Hamersly Library, was shut down in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic — a time where social distancing, mask mandates and safety regulations were heavily prioritized. For nearly three years, the café had remained an isolated island in the Hamersly Library.

Similar to Caffé Allegro, which is located across from the Wolfstore on the second floor of the Werner University Center, The Press will function as a “proudly serving” Starbucks foodservice. This means that The Press will not accept Starbucks credit or the chain’s official foodservice app.

Western has formed a rocky history with campus coffee shops over the last few years.

In February 2021, Campus Dining opened a new coffee shop in the backstage area of Valsetz Dining Hall to cater to students’ caffeine needs, after Caffé Allegro was opened and promptly reclosed due to low traffic. However, regardless of its popularity, Valsetz Café was shut down less than a year later.

Shortly after Caffé Allegro’s reopening in late 2021, Western began to observe student displeasure over the lack of timely and available coffee shops on campus. Caffé Allegro — although located at the heart of campus — ran on limited hours, closing at 2 p.m.

To make up for the demand for afternoon coffee, The Press’s hours will run consecutively to Caffé Allegro’s.

The Press will be open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. – 7 p.m. while Caffé Allegro will continue to remain open and run Monday through Friday, 8:30 p.m. – 2 p.m. However, there is a catch.

According to Worotikan, much of the equipment needed to make the high quality Starbucks beverages were not covered by Western’s budget. This includes the appliances needed to make blended drinks. Until further notice, The Press will only serve hot drinks. Though, students will still have the option to purchase snacks from the grab-and-go display.

In preparation for the coffee shop’s reopening, barista training for both new and long-time employees began the first Tuesday of the term, led by Starbucks representative and operations manager, Reid Van Ness.

Campus Dining will also begin offering DaxBot delivery services and mobile ordering for Caffé Allegro the second week of the term. Although Caffé Allegro’s mobile menu is limited, individuals will have the option to choose from classic Starbucks drinks, such as blended beverages and iced refreshers.

As a reminder, students must have an active meal plan or Wolf Bonus account in order to place an order for DaxBot delivery.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

The Western Howl

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New Releases While we were Away

Written by:Gretchen Sims

It feels like so much time has passed since the traumatizing end of finals week. Since The Howl has yet to have a release since school was in session, there is much that has been missed. Here are just a few media releases that have been rocking viewers since early December.

Albums and Singles — During the month of December alone, several albums have blown up, taking America by storm.

SZA had the biggest success in December with the “SOS” album released on Dec 9. Paramore released “The News” as a precursor for their album that is set to release in January.
Lana Del Rey also released a song, “Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd,” teasing her 9th studio album set to release in March.
Weezer released “Winter,” the 4th and final EP in their SZNZ series.
A$AP Rocky released “Sh—n’ Me” as part of the official soundtrack for the racing video game, “Need For Speed Unbound.”
Ava Max continues to tease her upcoming album “Diamonds and Dancefloors,” which is set to release in late January, by dropping “Dancing’s Done.”

Movies — This past month has had many notable movie releases. However, here are a few that broke the box office.

“Babylon,” starring Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie and Jean Smart, follows several key figures of early Hollywood through their rise and fall.
“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” documents the heartbreaking yet joyous story of Whitney Houston — arguably the most influential female vocalist of all time.
“Avatar: The Way of Water,” the second movie in the critically acclaimed Avatar series, follows Jake Sully’s new family and their struggle to protect their home.
“Violent Knight” redefines Christmas movies with a bloody spinoff of “Home Alone.”
“Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” is a long-awaited sequel to the Puss in Boots franchise in which Puss must go on an adventure of a lifetime to preserve his own.
“M3GAN” addresses the fears of AI going rogue while preying on an audience’s fear of dolls.

TV Series — Because they deserve a category of their own, here are the TV series released in December 2022.

Season three of “Emily in Paris” was released on Netflix on Dec 21.
“1923,” the second Yellowstone prequel, debuted on Paramount Dec 18.
The rebut of “Gossip Girl” was released on HBO Max on Dec 1.
“The Witcher: Blood Origins,” a prequel to “The Witcher” series on Netflix, could be streamed as of Dec 25.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Western Oregon University’s Land Acknowledgement
Western Oregon University in Monmouth, OR is located within the traditional homelands of the Luckiamute Band of Kalapuya. Following the Willamette Valley Treaty of 1855 (Kalapuya etc. Treaty), Kalapuya people were forcibly removed to reservations in Western Oregon. Today, living descendants of these people are a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.

Accessibility Public Records Privacy Student Consumer Information

WOU prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by WOU.

A students’ tips for acing scholarship applications

Explore Next Door

Pleasing Pasta

Get to Work

Campus Job Posting

The Press Resumes Operations

New Releases While we were Away

Tools

Resources