On Friday, February 2, WEXP Radio released its first episode in almost four years.
WEXP Radio is La Salle’s student-run broadcasting station with episodes now available on YouTube and Spotify. Originally, WEXP opened its studio in 1972 and became dormant in 2020, ending a 15-year run as one of the Philadelphia area’s most prominent student-run radio stations. Last week, I met with Lily Henshaw ‘24 after seeing her LinkedIn post regarding the news of restarting the station following the COVID shutdown.
Henshaw led the project of getting WEXP back on the air with the help of her two roommates, Josh Schields and Kate Vasey; the three of them hosted the first podcast episode back entitled “Drop-Shipping is Taking Over – The JKL RatPod EP 1.” The episode, in the style of simple conversation between close friends, featured a main talk about Temu, Shein, TikTok and Instagram shops.
Getting WEXP back on its feet took more than just a few weeks. “Just kind of getting into the studio and getting things operating again has taken the longest. Now that we’re in full operation we can go where we want with it, which is super cool,” said Henshaw. This project, beginning this past fall, would not have been possible without the help of advisor and communication Professor Dr. Mark Lashley. Lashley worked to arrange the technical equipment in the WEXP studio, and even brought in some of his personal tools to aid in the recording and uploading of the episodes.
As “RatPod” is one series that has begun on WEXP Radio, there are plans in the works for new programming. “We’ll have a sports show soon, and we have plans for new movie reviews,” Henshaw stated, in addition to speaking about her potential plans to collaborate with members of “The Masque,” who are interested in doing acting content on the station.
The members of WEXP are dedicated and driven to providing a space where students can express themselves freely and creatively. In the next few months of expanding the WEXP platform, their hope is to amplify the voices of our vibrant student community for prospective and current students, along with our beloved alumni. “There are a lot of ties to our alumni in relation to WEXP. I made a post on my LinkedIn profile saying things are back up and running, and I got a lot of people reaching out to me who used to be involved with it.”
The revival of WEXP Radio marks a noteworthy milestone for La Salle University’s student community. Operated by a dedicated team of around 10 students, the station’s comeback after a four-year hiatus demonstrates their commitment to fostering creativity and passion.
After celebrating Martin Luther King Day, La Salle students resumed their studies on Tuesday, Jan. 16. Here’s a recap of what has been going on recently:
On the morning of Jan. 16, students woke up to a winter wonderland after inches of snow fell overnight. Per an alert that was sent out at 5:39 a.m., the university planned to operate normally, and students were advised to “exercise caution when traveling.” The next day, the university delayed opening until 10 a.m.. On Friday, Jan. 19, the university shifted to remote learning with no in-person instruction while essential workers were required to report to campus as scheduled. Many students were seen sledding and playing in the snow outside of St. Basil Court, St. Neumann and other various locations around the university buildings at the end of Week 1.
On the afternoon of Jan. 23, La Salle’s Union Ballroom hosted the involvement fair. The involvement fair was a great chance for students to get informed about clubs, organizations and resources available on campus. From OLAS providing cups of mango and guava juices to Student Entrepreneurs giving out strong handshakes and a listening ear, representatives at each table were extremely welcoming to students who were interested in what they had to offer.
The La Salle Grad Open House was held on Wednesday, Jan. 24. This event allowed undergraduates to find out how they could advance their goals in their future careers.
Panhellenic recruitment kicked off this past weekend on Thursday, Jan. 25 at 9 p.m.. The following events for the weekend contained significant moments for those seeking to join Greek life, as it provided opportunities for potential members to connect and develop relationships with girls from various sororities and find their ideal fit.
Lastly, Late Night La Salle hosted two events this past weekend. They began with a game and pizza night on Friday, Jan. 26 in the Union Ballroom with a basketball shooting game, jenga, a raffle and more activities. The following night, LNL arranged mochi donuts and ice cream in the Union Food Court from 8-10 p.m.. Be sure to follow their new TikTok account @late.night.lasalle to be in the loop with all upcoming events and see behind the scenes of these wonderful events being put together!
The La Salle Collegian team wishes you all the best for a successful spring semester. Go Explorers!
In an era of glitter rose bouquets and Valentine’s Day baskets for your partner, it can be easy to forget what February is truly about – Black History Month.
What was once originated as Negro History Week, the month-long celebration gained extended recognition in 1976 by U.S. president Gerald Ford, to “honor the too often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Today, Black History Month continues to commemorate the historic pioneers of the past, but also acknowledges the current resilient activists, contributors and notable figures leading the advancement of African Americans.
The African American Student League (AASL), along with other collaborating organizations, aims to actively carry on the celebratory legacy here at La Salle through a plethora of events, spirit week activities and educational programs for all students and administration to get involved in and enjoy. Some events include interactive panel discussions, arts and crafts, trivia games, art shows, student performances, tasty treats, savory eats and more. To keep track of all upcoming events, refer to the Black History Month calendar for all important dates.
via Jya Marshall
Yet, if you are looking to continue the celebration beyond West Olney Avenue, the city of Philadelphia has Black history woven within its infrastructure and therefore, many opportunities to commemorate the trailblazers of the past. Click here for a guide to Black History Month in Philadelphia. There are also ways to celebrate Black History Month even in the comfort of your own home which include: supporting Black businesses and entrepreneurs, read(ing) Black authors, watch ) a Black film or documentary, donate to a Historically Black University or charitable organization, explore podcasts by Black artists, explore music by Black artists and educate yourself on Black history and culture.
Black History Month grants an opportunity for all to admire and highlight the significant contributions of Black Americans undeterred by systemic racial oppression and discrimination. I urge my fellow peers and the La Salle administration to join the African American Student League in celebrating Black History Month and attain “the message of courage and perseverance it brings to all of us.”
Read on for a brief outline of some of the great events to come at La Salle:
Thursday, February 1st: African American Student League General Body Meeting
Location: Dunleavy (3rd Floor of Union Building)
Time: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Event Details: The African American Student League will be kicking off Black History Month on Thursday, February 1st at their General Body Meeting. Get a glimpse of what Black History Month is all about by joining them for some sweet treats and an informative overview of upcoming events and how to get involved.
Monday, February 5th: Black History Month Reception
Location: La Salle University Art Museum (Lower Level of Hayman Hall)
Time: 4:30 p.m.-7 p.m.
Event Details: Interested in the arts? Galleries within the La Salle University Art Museum will feature 14 works from the permanent collection by African American artists, highlighting the impact of major Black artistic movements. Enjoy snacks, drinks and discussions to learn more about these amazing artists!
Tuesday, February 6th: Unapologetically Black Education: Strategies for Dismantling Systems of Domination
Location: Dan Rodden Theatre in the Union Building
Time: 5 p.m. – 6:30pm
Event Details: Gain unique perspectives on promoting an unapologetically Black educational experience that empowers and liberates, contributing to a vision of equity and justice in education by attending this panel discussion on Tuesday, February 6th. This event will explore transformative insights from a diverse panel including scholar, Dr. Christopher Rogers, high school educator, Hannah Gann, elementary educator, Tia James, and parent activist, Martiza Guridy, as they collectively share strategies to challenge and dismantle systems of domination within the education system.
February 12th – 16th: Black History Month Spirit Week
Monday, February 12th: 50 Years of Hip-Hop – Dress as your favorite Hip Hop artist/group
Tuesday, February 13th: Sunday’s Best Dressed – Dress like your church-going relatives
Wednesday, February 14th: Black Love – Dress in red or pink to celebrate Valentine’s Day
Thursday, February 15th: My Hair is My Crown: Embrace your natural hair
Friday, February 16th: Black Students Matter: Dress in all black or your African American Student League Shirt
Monday, February 12th: Paint & Sip
Location: Compass Club (2nd Floor of Union)
Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Event Details: Come reset, refocus and recenter with the African American Student League. Enjoy painting canvases, mocktails and karaoke!
Tuesday, February 13th: Black History Month Trivia & Games
Location: Union
Time: 12:30pm – 2:00pm
Event Details: Think you are an expert? Come test your Black history knowledge on Tuesday, February 13th from 12:30pm to 2:00pm in the Union and win prizes and treats!
Thursday, February 15th: Ted Talk – Black Love Edition
Location: Dan Rodden Theater
Time: 12:30pm – 2:00pm
Event Details: Attend this Ted Talk discussion led by the Black Excellence Group and the African American Student League. Bring all your questions, shareable experiences, knowledge and the tea on Black love.
Sunday, February 18th: Soul Food Sunday
Location: Dunleavy (Third Floor of Union)
Time: 4:00pm – 8:00pm
Event Details: Black History Month would not be complete without an event catered to our palates. Join the African American Student League on Sunday, February 18th for a soul food dinner and games!
Wednesday February 21st: Book Discussion of Black Liberation Through Action and Resistance: MOVE
Location: Music Room
Time: 3:30pm
Event Details: Dr. Frederick V. Engram, an Assistant Professor of Higher Education at Fairleigh Dickinson University, will be coming to La Salle to discuss his first book, Black Liberation Through Action and Resistance: MOVE. Attend this event and learn about ways that racism impacts African Americans in both systems of higher education and the criminal justice system.
Thursday, February 22nd: Family Feud
Location: Dan Rodden Theatre
Time: 6:00pm
Event Details: Survey says…You do not want to miss this event! Hosted by On The Quad, this event encourages student organizations to join this event as a team, however all students are welcomed to attend as audience members or participate in the popular
Tuesday, February 26th: Black Town Hall
Event Details: Want your voice heard? Attend the Black Town Hall on Tuesday, February 26th and engage in a discussion with special guest speakers, La Salle University President Dr. Dan Allen and Vice President of Student Development & Campus Life, Dr. Gaby St. Leger, about the Black experience in many areas. More details about this event will be released soon.
Thursday, February 29th: Black Showcase
Location: Dan Rodden Theatre
Time: 6:00pm
Event Details: On February 29th, the African American Students League will be elevating the stage with a celebration of Black excellence at the Black Showcase. Join us for an evening of student performances and refreshments.
Fall is the perfect time to get cozy inside with some coffee and a movie, but why not go out with the crisp air and outdoor activities before it gets too cold? If you’re looking for some fun fall-inspired activities to do with your friends this autumn season, here is a list of five fun activities that are happening right here in Philly!
1. Eastern State Penitentiary
First on the list, is a well-known attraction that never fails to impress at Halloween time! That is the Eastern State Penitentiary. Located in the Fairmount section of Philly, the Eastern State Penitentiary is a historic 10-acre real abandoned prison. It holds a variety of different activities to get involved in throughout the year, but Halloween time is when it is most visited.
Currently, the penitentiary is hosting Halloween Nights, which include five haunted houses, historic tours, themed bars and lounges, live performances and many other activities! Halloween Nights started back in September, and it runs until November 11. Ticket prices vary by night, but start at $39, a great price considering how much is included in the night! The haunted houses include a 3D haunted house, Al Capone’s cell, a vampire-themed lounge, a guided flashlight walkthrough tour and more. Different activities may include an extra cost, but be sure to check out the Eastern State Penitentiary website to find out more information! So, if you are into scares and looking for a fun place to go with friends, this is just the place!
2. Spooky Mini Golf
Looking for something a little less scary? No problem! Franklin Square is hosting spooky mini golf as they do every October. Although “spooky” is in the title, the activity is your usual mini golf with some added Halloween decorations, so it’s nothing too scary! There are a total of 18 holes surrounded by Philly landmarks covered in spooky seasonal decorations! The course is open every day in October from 6:00-9:00 p.m. and is $15 for adults, but if you sign up through the Campus Philly website you can get tickets for $10! This is a great way to spend a night after classes to relax and enjoy a good time with friends or family!
3. Explore the Fall Foliage at a Park
Just outside of campus, Philly is home to many beautiful parks, and two in particular are known for their beautiful fall foliage: Wissahickon Park and Fairmount Park. Wissahickon Park is just three miles from campus and has beautiful landscapes and trees that are changing colors right as you are reading this. Fall is the perfect time of year to grab a blanket, snacks and some friends to go have a picnic with a beautiful autumn background.
Similarly, Fairmount Park is also a close five miles away from campus and has over 2,000 acres of gorgeous landscape. Aside from beautiful nature trails and hidden pathways, Fairmount Park is home to the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, a beautiful greenhouse called the Horticulture Center and the Mann Center, a great outdoor concert venue. The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden is highly recommended. It is a traditional 17-century Japanese home replica that has a large variety of plant life, tours, art exhibits and more. During the fall time, it is an amazing spot to visit and is only $9 when you present a student ID.
4. Philadelphia Ghost Tours
Last but certainly not least is another activity for fellow thrill seekers: Philadelphia ghost tours. These spooky tours take place in Independence National Park, Old City and Society Hill, where you embark on a guided candle-lit walking tour and learn about one of the most haunted cities, our own Philadelphia. The haunted tours occur nightly and are $25 per person, but you can find special discounts on The Ghost Tour of Philadelphia website. It was even, “Named one of the top 15 ‘must see’ attractions in the US,” according to the website! So, if you are looking to hear some stories of haunted attractions, paranormal activity and other reported mysterious occurrences, be sure to check out these spooky tours.
Writer’s note: Now, after hearing about some of Philly’s greatest fall and Halloween time activities, I hope you seek out some of these events with friends and family! No matter what activity you are looking to take part in, also be sure to check out the Campus Philly website before doing so because they offer a variety of discounts for college students. Finally, have a safe and happy fall!
This past week, the Nobel Prize Committee awarded those whose work has substantially benefited humankind in the past year. The laureates in chemistry this year are three scientists who worked toward the discovery and synthesis of quantum dots. Alexei Ekimov, Luis Brusand Moungi Bawendi played different parts in the discovery and popularity of these nanostructures.
Despite its sci-fi-esque name, quantum dots can be described as very small crystal structures. So small that if the quantum dots were lined along a baseball bat, there would be approximately half a billion quantum dots in that single line. The fun begins when shining ultraviolet light on the dots, which fluoresce in vivid colors. The excitement around quantum dots comes from the fact that as they grow in size, the crystals change in color. This is like having a pile of salt that changes color as more salt is added (and it’s glowing)! Scientists can choose what colors they want to see by changing the size of the dots.
The vibrant color of the dots has versatile applications in LED displays, where the dots act as pixels and color filters. Many companies are already using quantum dots in their displays, which can be spotted by looking for a “Q” in the name of the product.
Researchers are also studying the use of quantum dots in photovoltaics or solar cells. The dots offer a cheaper alternative to energy capture compared to current materials like silicon, cadmium and telluride.
For biomedical applications, quantum dots can be used in imaging technology that allows scientists to track the movement of drugs through the body or a single cell. Their small size and bright glow make them easy to spot as they are metabolized.
In 1979, Ekimov was researching what gave stained glass its unique color, and why changing the temperature during the glass-blowing process resulted in different colors of the same material. He found that some materials changed color based on their size; they were quantum dots! Independent of this observation, Brus found the same occurrence happening in a different material in 1982. Both concluded that the nanocrystals were so small that they behaved differently than expected, called the quantum size effect.
In 1993, Bawendi created a new way to synthesize the quantum dots that involved the sudden injection of an ingredient of quantum dots into a boiling solution. By controlling the temperature of the solution, Bawendi could control the size of the nanoparticles. This new method greatly decreased the effort needed to synthesize quantum dots and increased the yield.
Nanoparticle research is a burgeoning and promising field of chemistry because of the wide range of applications and how much is still yet to be discovered. Quantum dots are just the tip of the nanoparticle iceberg, with more being learned about them daily. Their small size allows scientists to push the envelope of innovation and research and advance many other branches of science. The 2023 Nobel Prize in chemistry displays the importance of continued work in nanoparticles.
On Sept. 27, La Salle University officially announced their intentions for deconstructing Tom Gola Arena and renovating the space it occupies into the new and improved John Glaser Arena. In a gathering of about 200 people from the Lasallian community, including alumni, faculty, professors, coaches, fans and students, La Salle University alumna Meg Kane ‘03, moderated a panel consisting of university President Dan Allen, Head Basketball Coach Fran Dunphy, Athletic Director Ashwin Puri and Head Women’s Basketball Coach Mountain McGillivray. Kane asked each of the men about their thoughts on what they believe the renovation project means to the university and other specifics about the project as well.
President Allen responded to Kane’s first question by saying that, “It’s been a long time coming. It actually goes back ten years ago when John Glaser made an extraordinary commitment to the university.”
President Allen explained how he had the opportunity to talk to the family of the late John Glaser ‘62, and how Glaser’s family told him of how Glaser kept a notebook of the shooting percentages of teams playing away at Tom Gola Arena, and through research realized that teams shot better when playing against the Explorers due to the absence of fans behind both baselines. President Allen proceeded by saying that part of Glaser’s purpose for donating was to create an environment that made playing away games against the Explorers more challenging.
Glaser ‘62 included a generous donation to renovate the arena in his will. The exact dollar amount of the donation was undisclosed at the gathering. However, it is no secret that Glaser’s donation was a multimillion-dollar gift, according to President Allen.
In addition, the stipulation placed on collecting the donation was that the beneficiaries (La Salle) would have to begin to utilize the funds by Oct. 19, 2023. President Allen went on to say how the likeness of Tom Gola from the Tom Gola Arena will be repurposed with the advent of “Tom Gola Plaza” just outside of the new arena—where fans can fellowship before games.
Athletic Director Ashwin Puri expressed, “It’s just gonna be such a meaningful change to this program, both men’s and women’s programs, all of our student-athletes, all of our current students, staff, faculty and our entire community.”
Puri was the primary articulator for explaining the concept and design of the arena. Puri noted that the renovation will be a 360-degree bowl design—with fans occupying seats on every side of the court and include: a new scoreboard, video board, lighting and a student section next to the visiting team’s bench.
Puri noted that a primary purpose for renovation would be to deliver a Division I athletic experience for La Salle’s students and fans. Premium seating along with a new HVAC system were among the new luxuries Puri mentioned that would be included in the new edifice as well. The entirety of the renovation process is set to be completed by the Fall of 2024, and will take place in three phases:
Renovation of the current court, stands, and overall arena
Construction of a Health and Wellness Facility (approximately $11M)
Transformation of current locker rooms and the addition of sports science amenities
Head Men’s Basketball Coach Fran Dunphy said that the renovation is “needed” and that he thinks that everyone at La Salle is looking forward to congregating in the new arena.
Head Women’s Basketball Coach Mountain McGillivray shared similar sentiments as well.
John Glaser Arena will be able to seat approximately 3,000 people at a time and likely cost upward of $30 million. President Allen, along with Ashwin Puri, thanked all those who have already donated to the renovation project. Puri also encouraged members of La Salle’s community to become financially involved in progressing this project as well. If all goes well, and projections are accurate, then around this time next year, La Salle University will have accomplished three important things.
Firstly, the university will have increased the value of campus. Secondly, the university will have created an ideal environment for fostering La sallian fellowship and student engagement. Lastly, and most importantly, La Salle University will have paid the proper tribute to the late John Glaser, who initiated the commencement of this powerful project with his generous donation. via John freeman
La Salle University’s September schedule is packed full of events geared toward welcoming students back to campus after the long summer break. Events ranging from arts and crafts, success coaching and student involvement will be keeping students very busy during the month of September!
On Aug. 28, On the Quad kicked off the semester with a Water Ice Welcome event in the Hansen Quad. Students were invited to come out and enjoy delicious water ice to celebrate the first day of classes. Later in the week, La Salle’s wide range of student clubs, academic and Greek life organizations all gathered in the Tom Gola Arena for a Student Involvement Fair on Thursday, Aug. 31 hosted by the Career Center and Campus Activity Center. The event was a great opportunity to introduce La Salle’s freshman class to the many ways to get involved on campus.
On Sept. 5, La Salle University’s Commuter and Off-Campus Coaches hosted a Painting and Sipping event on the Hansen Quad where commuter students were given the opportunity to network, paint and learn more about La Salle.
La Salle Student Wellness Services began their on-campus series on Wednesday, Sept. 6 with a DIY Thriving Kit table that provided students with healthy tips and tricks to “survive” college. Students were allowed to make up their own care package of wellness products, healthy snacks and more.
La Salle became an official partner school for Campus Philly’s annual Collegefest this year, an event that welcomed over 20,000 college students back to Philadelphia with free museum tickets, free SEPTA fare, and a block party on Philadelphia’s Race Street on Saturday, September 9 and Sunday, Sept. 10.
While these events have been a success, La Salle students look forward to the events yet to come. On Friday, September 29, La Salle will host Quietfest, a series of music and wellness festivals held by Depaul USA, a national homelessness services nonprofit organization that fights the homelessness crisis by providing safe and stable housing. The event will take place in the Union Ballroom and will include a workshop, vendors and various physical activities such as yoga, meditation and art therapy. Later that night, Late Night La Salle will partner with Depaul USA and the Union Ballroom will be transformed for a Silent Disco event.
To close out our busy month of September, Late Night La Salle will host a Philly Food event to highlight and celebrate the many cultural and delicious flavors of the city. Students will be invited to come and enjoy in the Union Food Court on Saturday, Sept. 30.
Beginning in the Fall semester of 2023, La Salle University’s Business school will begin its pilot program of replacing professors with Artificial intelligence. As defined by Tech Target artificial intelligence is “simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems.” Many universities are finding it increasingly difficult to pay their professors, so some are doing away with them entirely. La Salle is a trailblazer in this operation of using AI to replace professors.
BUS 200: Business Professionalism & Career Preparation is the perfect course to pilot AI considering the main focus of the class is how to use LinkedIn and shake hands. Considering this class teaches students how to be corporate bots, it is innovative that they learn from the best bots we have, AI. The AI will teach students how to make resumes, comment on LinkedIn and how to dress for an interview.
With the addition of AI professors this opens up the opportunity for human professors to instruct new classes like 5th grade mathematics, the importance of greed and exploitation. AI also offers the option to fire experts in their fields to save a buck! La Salle continues to be a front runner in business and technology with this new format of instruction.
On Sat. Nov 6, La Salle Students were fortunate enough to attend the Philadelphia grassroots event at Temple University’s Liacouras Center. Here, they spent their afternoon hearing from local, state, and federal leaders discuss the Democratic Party and their beliefs this election season. Some of these political leaders included La Salle alumni State Rep. Joanna McClinton and Rep. Dwight Evans, Lieutenant Governor candidate Austin Davis, current Governor Tom Wolf, incumbent Senator Bob Casey, and many other prominent leaders of the Democratic Party. A common trend among the speeches was the main goals for this midterm election. These include: creating pro-choice policies, funding public education, allowing the unionization of workers, combatting gun violence, and ensuring democracy for the future of our country.
While there are several tight races across the nation, Pennsylvania is again at the center of the political world. In the race for United States Senate, John Fetterman hopes to solidify a Democratic majority in the Senate over Republican Dr. Memhet Oz. The campaign between the two has been tight and has featured a ruthless political advertising campaign. Fetterman has criticized Oz’s allegiance to the commonwealth and personal character, while Oz has labeled Fetterman as a radical liberal and has attacked his health following a stroke Fetterman suffered this summer. Consequently, most polls find that the race is virtually tied heading into election day.
Democratic Attorney General Josh Shapiro is running against Republican state senator Doug Mastriano at the state level . Mastriano, who was present at the January 6th insurrection and has been recently criticized for his antisemitic comments, faces a severe disadvantage. Shapiro holds a lead over Mastriano in both the polls and fundraising. An article from Penn-Live finds that Shapiro has outspent Mastriano by a margin of 6:1 and a recent Marist poll finds that Shapiro is leading Mastriano by 14 points (54%-40%). Nevertheless, the races in Pennsylvania are some of the most contentious in the country and have caught the eye of political leaders from around the country.
As such, on Sat., both Democratic and Republican candidates made stops around the state to gain some last-minute traction and votes for their parties up and down the ballot. Mehmet Oz and Doug Mastriano traveled to rurals areas with former-President Donald Trump, where they called for stricter abortion laws and policies that is tougher on crime and immigration. It is also worth noting that Trump was adamant about the past presidential election being “rigged and stolen” and that he does not want to see that happen in Pennsylvania. On the flip side for the Democrats, John Fetterman and Josh Shapiro visited cities like Philadelphia, with President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama joining them on stage.
After various state leaders made their case to the crowd, President Biden, former-President Obama, Fetterman, and Shapiro walked out on stage to encourage voters to get out to the polls on Nov. 8. Biden emphasized his legislative accomplishments, including the Inflation Reduction Act and the PACT Act and encouraged the crowd to vote for Fetterman and Shapiro.
Shapiro promptly followed Biden, who commanded the room and was an engaging and passionate speaker. He emphasized being a governor for all the people of Pennsylvania, not just the ones who voted for him. On top of this, he reiterated the previously mentioned ideologies of the party and vetoed any anti-abortion law that was to come across his desk.
Fetterman, who recently made headlines for having a stroke, engaged the audience with humor and confidence in his speaking. La Salle students admitted they were nervous to see him speak so publicly. However, the students who attended explained that Fetterman was concise and, quite honestly, if one did not know he had just suffered from a stroke, one would have had no idea by the way he spoke at that rally. In addition to a few zingers about Oz, Fetterman committed himself to protect reproductive rights and being the 51st vote in the United States Senate.
After Fetterman and Shapiro spoke, Obama echoed Biden’s sentiments and encouraged the crowd to utilize their voices to enact real policy change. He was his usual charismatic self and captivated the room with his public speaking. Obama spoke about the importance of these elections and urged the crowd to get family and friends out to the polls.
Writers’ Note:
At the end of the rally, we left with a sense of pride and optimism toward the election. Not only were the candidates passionate about their stances, but the crowd was too. Josh Shapiro stated, “if you show up for me in two days…I’ll fight for you every day these next four years as your Governor,” and this sentiment stuck with us.
These candidates are running to ensure democracy in our state and country and equality for all, which is something that is worth voting for. So, be sure to head out to the polls and vote on Tue, Nov. 8th, and vote for the future that you want to see, not only in Pennsylvania but in our country.
La Salle University offers many resources for career skill building and tries to position its students to be ready to enter the job field of their choice. One program strives to connect students with alumni or other professionals in the student’s field and gives them an opportunity to “shadow” professionals during a typical day of their work. Previous job shadow employers host partner companies, including the Eagles, Comcast, the Phillies, CBS, Penn Medicine, and more.
The Explorer Shadow Program takes place over winter break or a mutually convenient date for both the student and the host by Feb. 28th, 2023. Students get to network with professionals in their host’s workplace for a day, as well as observe, participate, and learn about the industry, the host’s role, and the organization. They receive a behind-the-scenes look at what professionals in their field do and where they work by “shadowing” the host through a typical day’s activities. The day might include touring the office or place of business, meeting other staff members who work in distinct roles at the company, observing meetings, and working on small projects. A job shadow is also an ideal time to ask questions or get expertise and career advice.
Offered since the 2017-2018 school year, the program has served 260 students with Job Shadow matches. All students are eligible to take part in the Explorer Shadow Program at La Salle University. The Career Center recommends this program for students who are undecided about their career goals to explore options, students who are clarifying different options they are interested in, and students who know what field they want to go into and are ready to jump in. Students can participate in multiple sessions by reapplying and completing orientation each year. Students are expected to supply their own transportation to the job shadow site. The host of their organization will cover the cost of lunch.
The Student Program Contact, Noelle Stueck, believes this program can benefit any student at La Salle in a multitude of ways: “Explore a career field of interest, without the commitment of an internship, gain first-hand knowledge of a real work environment and on-the-job etiquette. Uncover opportunities for future careers. Connect directly with your host (an alumnus and/or other professional), who can serve as an excellent resource for career, job, and internship advice.”
Noelle recommends that students “come prepared with questions about the job, career field, the company, etc. in order to get the full experience of what the host does behind the scenes on a day-to-day basis.” She also highlights the importance of being able to enroll in the program each year: “Students have been able to see if the career they are interested in is the right path for them or create a contact and mentor from alumni to engage with about their future career path.” She adds that “the more involvement and growth this program has, the more likely it can expand into an every semester program where students can have multiple shadow experiences a year. It is an easy opportunity to gain experience in your field of interest and to continue building your resume.”
The application for the program is included on their online Canvas course. Students can enroll in the Explorer Shadow Program Canvas course at https://lasalle.instructure.com/enroll/MGLEN6. Complete the first two modules of the Explorer Shadow Program Canvas course, including the application and orientation, by Oct. 14th, 2022. Students looking for more information can email the Student Program Contact, Noelle Stueck at stueck@lasalle.edu or the Program’s general email, shadow@lasalle.edu. Students can also stay updated on the program’s social media pages @lasalleuesp on Instagram and Facebook. More information can also be found on the La Salle University website at https://www.lasalle.edu/student-life/career-center/current-students-2/explorer-shadow-program/
via John freeman
The La Salle Collegian 