work – The Western Howl

April 2, 2025

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief

Surefire Design has been in business in downtown Albany for at least 20 years. Despite this, many don’t know it exists, even in the heart of town. They walk past it on Saturday nights out, on the way to church early Sunday and spot it from the coffee shop across the street — wholly unaware of what they’re missing out on.

I joined the team three years ago, leading up to my high school graduation. It was the first job I ever got. I lacked experience, expertise and honestly, craft; painting was not my forte by any means. But I was 17, broke and desperate for purpose. Everyone I knew had a plan in place. I hadn’t prepped for college, hadn’t known what I wanted to do with my life, had no leftover friends and a dreaded home life — but I could have this job.

It was never just a weekend thing or teenage gig to me.

When I hated going home, I’d take extra care to sweep and make sure the tables were spotless. I’d check the windowsills for dust and organize the back — take my time, make it last. I would not always be so lucky.

There was a day over the summer when one of my coworkers called out last minute, leaving the shop dark and door locked. I had gotten into a nasty fight at home, leaving me to feel so unaligned and unwanted that all I could think to do was drive to work. I flipped the open signs, prepped the tables and manned the counter. It was grounding.

My first year in college was isolating and dead quiet. I lived off-campus and couldn’t make nor keep any connections with my peers. But at the shop, certain customers lingered longer at the counter so we could chat, some families knowing me by name. I remember the regulars, lost to the revolving door of life, and the times children offered me birthday cupcakes from their special day.

Before I turned 20, I was offered the position of studio manager. I took it without a second thought — originally unaware that this little pottery painting shop would cement itself into my character and build me as a worker, as a leader and person. That it would make my gloomy days a little bit more colorful, that I could find some semblance of peace at the front desk. That I could grow so close to my coworkers and customers.

I’ve been lucky enough to weave my own presence in the studio. I painted the counter pink and it’s my voice on the shop phone voicemail. I’m in a state of constant reinvention and renovation of myself and of Surefire Design, and it has been so fulfilling to work somewhere I love.

And, no, we’re not currently hiring. But we’re always accepting resumes.

Contact the author at howleditorinchief@wou.edu

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Setting boundaries

February 12, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Learning how to set healthy boundaries is essential for maintaining mental health and strengthening respect within relationships. According to TherapistAid, “Personal boundaries are the limits and rules we set for ourselves within relationships.” They enable people to protect their emotional, physical and mental health, allowing one to show up as their best self, both in personal and professional lives. Many people may feel uncomfortable setting boundaries due to fear of rejection, a desire to please others or simply not knowing how to express personal needs. Unfortunately, not setting boundaries can lead to overwhelming feelings of burnout, resentment toward others and a loss of identity. Getting taken advantage of causes emotional exhaustion and unnecessary stress. With practice, establishing and maintaining boundaries can lead to healthier, more fulfilling relationships and a greater sense of self-respect. Setting boundaries isn’t about shutting others out; rather, it’s about creating a safe, respectful space where one can thrive. Boundaries do not end at personal and professional relationships, they can be applied to various other areas within our lives, even our online presences. We have to also understand that setting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no.” It’s about preserving one’s mental and emotional health, and nurturing a sense of self. Some may believe that setting boundaries can be hurtful to the other person, but not expressing one’s own needs, including the need for space, can be extremely damaging, even leading to possible feelings of resentment.

In order to set boundaries, it’s necessary to identify what needs to be protected. Sometimes the answer doesn’t immediately come to mind, but asking these questions can help to clear the way.

“What makes me feel uncomfortable, drained or disrespected?”
“Where do I feel my time, energy, or emotions are being taken for granted?”
“When do I feel I’ve been overcommitting or sacrificing my well-being?”

Once we understand what’s not going to be tolerated, it’s important to define the limits. This could be applied to personal relationships, work environments or even among social circles. After all of this has been recognized and acknowledged, the next step is to communicate these boundaries to others. Communication should be clear and kind, but also direct and assertive. Setting boundaries is not asking for permission, but informing another person of a change of needs. When expressing limits, one should be prepared for any resistance. Some may not be immediately accepting of boundaries. Stay calm, and reinforce the boundaries. Saying “no” is healthy and is part of a balanced life. Consistency is key when it comes to upholding boundaries. Conflict is uncomfortable and it can be tempting to bend the boundaries, but it undermines them in the long run.

Boundary violations are very likely to happen, so how one responds to any violations is extremely important. It’s crucial to have a direct conversation with the boundary violator in order to fix the issue. When another does not take boundaries seriously and continues to violate them, it might be time to reevaluate the relationship. Healthy relationships require mutual respect, and part of that respect includes honoring each other’s boundaries. Many people feel guilty or selfish when they enforce their limits, but in reality, boundaries are an essential form of self-care. Taking up space, saying no and prioritizing one’s needs without feeling guilty can lead to several health benefits. Among the benefits are increased emotional well-being, stronger relationships and improved self-esteem that all result in a larger control over one’s life.

Setting boundaries is an essential skill that allows one to live authentically and protect their well-being. It can be difficult at first, especially if one is not accustomed to asserting their needs, but with practice, it becomes easier. Understanding one’s limits, communicating clearly and consistently enforcing boundaries cultivate healthy relationships and create a life that honors one’s own needs, priorities and values. In order to protect one’s health, we need to reiterate to ourselves that boundaries are not walls — they are bridges to more fulfilling, respectful and balanced relationships, where everyone can flourish.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

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Why should we slow down?

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

In this fast-paced world, it can feel as though there is never enough time to do everything needed and wanted to do each day. Between classes, work, internships, friends, family and much more, it can be overwhelming to anyone. At times, one may ask themself if they’re not doing enough, if they could be more organized or why does it seem like everyone else has it together? Maybe a different question is required — why is there so much pressure to do more?

With never-ending busy lives, one might believe that slowing down in life is a luxury that cannot be afforded. In reality, slowing down is a necessity. As a society, younger generations are already facing major burnout in life. To combat this, it’s important to reconnect oneself to the present moment and relearn how to find balance in an ever-changing world.

1. What are your priorities?

In order to slow down, one has to figure out what’s important to us. Endless to-do lists can distract from what’s really important. By taking time to reflect on the things that bring peace and joy in our everyday lives, distractions can be cut out. If one is unsure on where to start, try looking at relationships with family and friends. Is there anything one would like to do more? Anything less? Once what’s important is identified, it’s easier to release unnecessary stresses that drain energy.

2. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is an extremely important skill that everyone can benefit from. Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment. It includes observing one’s own thoughts, feelings and environment with an open and accepting attitude. It takes time to master mindfulness, but with lots of patience and a willingness to learn, anything is possible.

3. Mindful Breathing

Pay attention to the sensation of one’s breathing as it moves in and out of the body. Try to breathe slowly and deeply, noticing how the air feels as it moves through the nose, fills the lungs and leaves the body. Allow the body to fully relax and feel as if it’s floating among the clouds. This practice can be done at any time, but it is especially helpful when one is overwhelmed or feeling disconnected. By focusing on what’s happening in the present, one can break free from the never-ending cycle of stress.

4. Embrace Doing Nothing

Living in a time where productivity is highly valued, doing nothing seems foreign and wrong. Doing nothing is crucial in restoring mental and emotional selves. Whether it’s simply taking a nap, reading a book or people-watching, doing nothing is extremely vital for recharging one’s mental batteries. Learning how to relax without guilt or pressure is extremely rewarding. One simple “nothing” activity is sitting out at night and looking up at the sky. The chilly air is refreshing and looking at the night sky can encourage one to reflect on their life as a whole. Giving oneself permission to take breaks and rest can lead to a more positive mindset about resting and can result in a higher level of productivity.

5. Reconnect with Nature

Nature has a magical ability to help individuals slow down. It allows for escape from modern responsibilities. Whether it’s in the park, garden or hiking in the woods, reconnecting with nature lowers levels of cortisol — the stress hormone — and improves feelings of emotional well-being. Nature reminds one of the simple pleasures of life, such as feeling the warmth of the sun on our skin or the calming sounds of the wind and water. One such place that encourages one to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the world is Peavy Arboretum. It has many different trails and it feels as if one is deep within the forest, when they’re relatively close to Corvallis. For anyone who wants to do this hike, one would recommend hikers to park in the small parking lot on 99W going South.

6. Do Not Disturb

As technology continues to advance, people are relying on this powerful tool now more than ever. Whether it’s the constant notifications from email, Canvas, messages, Instagram, TikTok and more, it can become a distraction and eat up free time. Technology, especially phones, can feel as if they’re taking over lives. Just like any other relationship, setting boundaries is important. Some things one could do to limit the unnecessary stress is to turn off any notifications that are not essential. This simple step can make all the difference. As college students, many rely on our phones and laptops and it can be hard to completely take time away from busy schedules. Other than silencing unnecessary notifications, another important reason to take time away from phones is to strengthen in-person relationships. Spending too much time on phones only increases the feeling of being constantly overwhelmed. Setting boundaries in order to separate oneself from the online world allows one to prioritize important personal connections and experiences.

When life feels like a competition, slowing down can feel unproductive. But slowing down has shown the opposite effect. By embracing a mindful lifestyle, it can allow for the ability to feel truly alive and appreciate the smaller things in life. It is important to prioritize what’s really important in order to create a life that is more meaningful and fulfilling. Life is not about the destination, but about the journey — a journey that should be experienced and enjoyed.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

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GAPS possible strike

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief

During the first week of school in Sep. 2024, a heat wave of more than 100 degrees swept the town of Albany. Schools encouraged students to dress lightly and drink water instead of closing down or early for student and staff comfort as well as safety. GAEA, the Greater Albany Education Association, posted online, “Unfortunately, many of our classrooms are not equipped with air conditioning, and as of now, district leadership has not communicated a plan to address this concern … We are advocating for the district to take immediate action to ensure our students and staff can continue learning in a safe and comfortable environment.”

Since then, Albany teachers have only gotten closer to striking.

Educators demand safe, healthy classrooms, fair, competitive pay and essential healthcare benefits. Rallies have been persisting since Sep. 23 with a large turnout of supporters. They’ve also requested smaller class sizes, fair caseloads and supportive work conditions.

A vote held Oct. 29 led to 92 percent — 542 of 590 — of union members from Greater Albany Public Schools voting yes to striking Nov. 12 if demands are not met by the GAPS administration before then.

Amanda Miles, teacher at South Albany High School and Greater Albany Education Association bargaining chair as well as secretary, stated, “… I authorized a strike. I didn’t do it for myself or wanting to be paid more. I did it because the students in my school district aren’t getting what they deserve, and I’m willing to stand up and fight for what’s right for them.”

Another mediation date is set for Nov. 7, with the school district stating, “We will continue to collaborate with GAEA and hope to settle the contract as soon as possible.”

One individual took to Facebook to state that the union declared an impasse after eight months of negotiations and brought new complaints to light. “Today I listened to story after story from staff who are dealing with being bit, tables being flipped, teachers covered in bruises and people not feeling safe,” they wrote. “Teachers do not get paid enough to be injured every day … Things are not changing or we are being completely ignored.”

A bargaining update published by GAEA Nov. 2 stated, “We believe that it will cost between $400K and 600K each year to fully fund reasonable learning conditions for our students — a far cry from the $4.2 million management is claiming … After nine long months, it’s time for management to stop playing games and settle this contract NOW.”

On top of that, the bargaining update alleged multiple other miscalculations from the district.

During the mediation session Nov. 4, GAPS “took hours” to tabulate information regarding class sizes and GAEA checked the average class size to find it incorrect. “Despite these setbacks, we remain steadfast in our commitment to a fair contract that addresses these core issues,” said GAEA publicly. “Our members have made it clear that the bargaining team is to stand firm on these priorities until we secure a contract. It’s disappointing to see the amount of time management is spending trying to intimidate and coerce our members, but your resilience in the face of these tactics is inspiring.”

“Over 12 hours of mediation today, and no movement,” wrote one West Albany High School teacher on Facebook. They continued to allege that the information GAPS was publishing regarding class sizes and other data was exaggerated or incorrect. “Teachers DO NOT want to strike, but we will not back down,” they finalized.

District Superintendent Andy Gardner implored all teachers to “deeply consider the rush through these steps, and the ultimate impact of their actions on the community, families and most importantly, their students. Last year, Portland Public Schools learned that there are no winners at the end of such a process.”

Portland Public Schools went on strike for more than three weeks in November of 2023, losing 11 days of school. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek stepped in when the strike escalated to the point of vandalism and safety threats to bargain between both sides, leading to a higher-paying contract. Despite the win, it implied budget cuts and the union claimed they could no longer trust management.

The Albany school district has made attempts to reason with GAEA, adding class size caps and increased financial compensation, but has not met the demands listed by GAEA.

“Our educators do not take this step lightly,” said Dana Lovejoy, president of GAEA, in regard to the potential upcoming strike. “We do it because we are deeply committed to the students we teach and the community we serve.”

Contact the author at howleditorinchief@mail.wou.edu

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Friends and where to meet them

Written by: Taylor Duff | Lifestyle Editor

Making friends in today’s world is difficult with everyone glued to their phones for a sense of belonging and interaction. There are a few alternatives to making friends, or at least trying to, that aren’t boring or scary and will help build meaningful connections.

Firstly, if in-person isn’t the immediate go-to, many apps such as Bumble BFF and Friender have people who are in similar situations looking for friends. These apps allow users to display their interests and preferences clearly and safely to help find similar people. Other apps like Eventbrite, Meetup and Facebook groups target in-person interaction with a larger group setting to allow for multiple people at once to get to know each other at an event they all have an interest in.

Functions such as paint and sips, trivia nights, speakeasies, pottery classes, cooking classes, bingo and many more introduce fun and crafts to socializing. It all depends on what an individual wants to explore and can open the door for meeting new people. Social media communities, such as Discord, are also very accessible.

Work may not be the easiest place to navigate, but making friends with co-workers can potentially allow for friendship in and outside of the workplace. If there are charity events or potlucks through work, that is a great place to further that connection. There is also networking for employees to learn about upcoming events and introduce themselves to higher-up employees.

Learning environments that offer plenty of opportunity for conversation, like taking up a new pastime in a classroom, are also excellent options and may be simple for oneself. Taking classes in-person or online gives students a chance to interact with each other and learn.

Clubs such as book clubs, chess clubs and writers groups hold many event spaces for people to interact and get to know each other. In a similar space, if an individual is looking for a spiritual environment, there are many church events or groups held frequently. One could look for charity events or volunteering spaces to meet people, but also to help those in need. Charity events may include fundraisers and 5k marathons, and there are volunteering opportunities like helping at shelters for people and animals, beach clean-ups and food banks.

Fitness clubs are also great opportunities to socialize while also working on fitness goals. Many gyms have different group classes such as Zumba, yoga, pilates, cycling and tennis, to name a few. This allows people to create a community within the gym and enjoy working out.

Overall, finding friends takes a bit of searching and many conversations. It can be challenging with the rise of social media, but taking one step at a time and looking in the right places could be a great start.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

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The tutoring opportunities are endless

Everything students need to know about free tutoring at Western

Mikayla Coleman | News Editor

As students are entering week three of fall term at Western, the time for tutoring is upon us. Western offers a wide variety of student tutoring and support services that many students do not even realize are available to them, completely for free. There is no reason for any student to struggle alone or be afraid to reach out for help in subjects that they need extra support in when there are so many kind faces ready to set them up for academic success.

Appointment availability decreases as the demand for tutoring and help in courses rises near the end of the term. To ensure students receive all the help they need, it is encouraged to be mindful of when the most support will be needed in specific courses and make appointments in advance accordingly.

This tutor guide is available outside of the Advising Office.

Writing Center — The Writing Center offers writing help for papers and professional projects. Many English courses at Western either require an appointment with the Writing Center for course credit or offer extra credit for showing proof of a Writing Center appointment when working on a project. They are currently offering appointments online and in person on the first floor of Hamersly Library. The easiest way to make an appointment is to use their specific online scheduler via the Western portal.

Math Center — The Math Center offers drop-in math tutoring for almost all 100, 200 and 300 level courses, both in person on the second floor of Hammersly Library or online via Zoom.

Science Center — The Science Center offers drop-in and scheduled appointments in person, in study room 124 in Hamersly Library or online via Zoom. The Science Center seeks to help struggling students master skills that are necessary for success in science courses here at Western.

Computing Science Tutoring — The Computing Science Center offers tutoring in upper and lower computer science and information system courses. They offer drop-in appointments Monday – Thursday from 12 – 4 p.m. in person in the newly renovated ITC in room 310D, or online via Zoom. To make an appointment, students are encouraged to email a known tutor or reach out to the tutoring director, Tracy Boyson.

SSA Tutoring — Student Success and Advising Tutoring covers the most ground by far, tutoring in over 20 different subjects, many of which fall under general education requirements. Outside of the previously stated academic disciplines — they cover many different nontraditional tutoring subjects such as art, music, sustainability and gerontology. In addition, they offer study skills tutoring where students can learn how to be more effective in their notetaking, test taking and time management skills.

According to Keegan Gormally, the tutoring coordinator/academic success advisor for SSA, “SSA Tutoring seeks to build content knowledge in courses, study skills and academic habits, peer connections/connections to campus for students, support for students so they are more likely to seek help, and empower students towards their personal and academic goals.”

SSA Tutoring appointments are going to remain strictly via Zoom through fall term. Students can schedule appointments with a plethora of different tutors via the Wolf Connection System on the Western portal.

Contact the author at newseditor@thewesternhowl.com

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Interviewing tips and techniques

Four tricks to leave a good impression on potential employers

Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

The need for a job becomes apparent for just about everyone at some point in their life. One of the most important things about a job can be the interview — it sets up not only the opportunity for employment, but also for one’s path as they progress at said job. Here are four of the most important focusing points to help land the job.
Dress for the job being interviewed for. According to Jill Hurd, broker at Taylor & Taylor Realty Co. in Lincoln City, “It shows the person’s motivation and determination.”

It is safer to overdress for an interview than to underdress. If applying for a job where the dress code is casual, go business casual if possible. Dress up an outfit that is already owned with small details such as adding jewelry like a watch or earrings, accessories like a portfolio or purse and wearing a clean pair of shoes. Make sure to also be well groomed.

Dressing for success in business casual wear is a great way to impress potential employers.

First impressions are important, so make sure you show up prepared for the interview. Know who is conducting the interview and memorize their name. Bring a resume copy and any references to the meeting. This shows organization and gives the appearance of professionalism. Research the company as well so if a question arises the ability to answer will be quicker and the interviewer will be more likely to remember you. Lastly, read the listed job post, and look up the resumes of other people with the same title. This is a great way to tune up a resume with skills that may not have previously been considered.

Eye contact with the interviewer is proven to convey confidence and self esteem which are important qualities in an employee, according to Fusion Career Services. This can be a difficult task for many, but try to remember to look them in the eye at least 50% of the time, or try focusing on one eye and switching while they talk.

“Eye contact is the number one thing for me,” said Jody Gaver, guidance director at Taravella High School in Florida. “I always tell my students that. If you can’t look in my eyes to talk to me and show interest and are looking around everywhere, I would be concerned you can’t do your job well.”

Tardiness to an interview can foreshadow later punctuality issues. Not only will arriving 10 – 15 minutes early to an interview allow time to decompress and prepare, but will also indicate to the employer that their time is valued and can earn respect.

“I have always been praised for showing up early to interviews and making it a talking point before exiting at the end that being on time is something I pride myself in,” said Caitlyn Kessinger, former nanny in Dallas.

Contact the author at lifestyleeditor@thewesternhowl.com

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.

Surefire Design

Setting boundaries

Why should we slow down?

1. What are your priorities?

2. Practice Mindfulness

4. Embrace Doing Nothing

5. Reconnect with Nature

6. Do Not Disturb

GAPS possible strike

The tutoring opportunities are endless

Interviewing tips and techniques

Tools

Resources