Let's Go Tigers!

The University of Memphis Tigers will take on the St. Mary's Gaels Thursday as part of the 2nd round of the NCAA Tournament.   You can read more about the game below or at SportsChatPlace.

The Memphis Tigers and St. Mary’s Gaels meet in the 2^nd round of the NCAA Tournament on Thursday. 

Memphis won the Conference USA Championship and finished 30-4 overall and 16-0 in conference play.  Memphis appeared in the tournament last year and lost in the second round to Saint Louis.  Head Coach Josh Pastner is 0-2 in two appearances in the Big Dance.  The Tigers were unbeaten in C-USA play for the fourth time in seven seasons.  Joe Jackson tops the team in scoring and assists, averaging 13.8 points and 4.9 assists per game.  Jackson has also improved his three-point shooting over the last season, shooting 49.3% this season.  The Tigers also boast the league’s sixth man of the year in junior Chris Crawford, who averages 9.3 points per game.  The Tigers are very efficient from the floor, shooting 37.9% from three-point range and 47.9% from the field, however; their 66.7% mark from the free throw line ranks 260^th in the country.  Memphis has defeated notable teams such as Tennessee, Ohio, and Southern Miss this year. 
 
The St. Mary’s Gaels won the opening round game over Middle Tennessee State and will advance to the second round of the tournament.  The Gaels finished the season 27-6 overall and 14-2 in the West Coast Conference.  Head Coach Randy Bennett is 2-4 in four appearances in the NCAA tournament.  After an anxious week on the bubble, the Gaels have back-to-back NCAA bids.  G Mathhew Dellavedova will be the key, as he has been through his career.  His teammates played well in the opening round, but they might not be able to give him enough help against a physical perimeter defensive team, one reason they lost to Gonzaga three times.  Dellavedova is averaging 16.5 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game, while Stephen Holt chips in with 11.8 points and 5.3 rebounds per contest.  St. Mary’s lost to Gonzaga multiple times but they did beat Creighton, Pacific, and BYU this season. 

St. Mary’s looked good in their opening round game, but Memphis will be a much bigger obstacle for the Gaels to overcome.  Memphis has faced some quality guards this year and they have an outstanding one of their own in Jackson.  The St. Mary’s doesn’t have enough talent across the board to hang with this Memphis team.  This could turn into a track meet and I’ll take Memphis to win comfortably in the end.  

DIY Drink Place Holders

Are you having a St. Patrick's Day Party, or are you attending one?  These DIY Crafts are super easy to make, and they will help you figure out whose drink is whose.  All you need is some different color card stock, scissors, and straws.   You can follow the directions below and make the straws in different colors.  This way you know what drink belongs to everyone.  For more great DIY St. Patty's Day crafts, you can click on Martha Stewart.



As a nod to Saint Patrick's Day, let your kids create their own luck with four-leaf-clover straw toppers. Shamrocks fashioned from green card stock make for an instantly festive table.

Tools and Materials

Card stock
Scissors
Bendable drinking straws, in green

Shamrock Straw Toppers How-To

1. Cut card stock into 5-inch squares.
2. Fold each square in half diagonally, creating a triangle, and then fold in half once more to make a smaller triangle. Trim off outer points as indicated.
3. Unfold paper halfway, as shown. Cut a small V at the bottom, in the center.
4. Unfold shamrock, and crease diagonally, reversing the direction of the fold; repeat to make another diagonal crease. Slide card-stock shamrock onto one end of a green straw. Make a wish, and have a sip!

Women's History Month at the University of Memphis

March is Women's History Month and the University of Memphis will be celebrating the occasion with more than 20 events scheduled over the next few weeks.  You can learn about women's history to famous Tiger Alumni in the various events around campus.  Check out the list of events below, and you can find out more at memphis.edu.

Women’s History Month will be observed at the University of Memphis with more than 20 events that will celebrate “Women Making History Every Day,” which is the theme for this year’s observance. Setting the tone will be the March 1 opening event, “A Personal Journey Through Women’s History.”

The luncheon, from noon to 2 p.m., in the University Center Ballroom, will feature a presentation by Dr. Janann Sherman, chair of the U of M History Department. Dr. Sherman will share her own story as a chronicler of history, especially women’s history and politics in 20th century America. Dr. Sherman’s research and books have explored the lives and careers of progressive women such as the early feminists who secured women’s suffrage; the first elected woman senator, Margaret Chase Smith; the founder of the modern women’s movement, Betty Friedan; and pioneering aviatrix Phoebe Omlie.

Because of limited space, reservations are necessary for the luncheon. They should be made no later than Feb. 25 via email to crow@memphis.edu.

The second major event, “Muted Belles Revisited: A Conversation Celebrating Women’s Lives,” will be an art exhibit and discussion March 7 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the U of M Art Museum. It will feature the “Muted Belles” sculpture on the U of M campus. Created in 1994 by Gail Rothschild in cooperation with U of M students and faculty, the statue honors eight Memphis women. Dr. Janann Sherman, Peggy Caffrey and Christine Eisel of the U of M History Department and Leslie Luebbers, director of the Art Museum, will discuss the significance of the sculpture and the women it represents. Light refreshments will be served.

The “Muted Belles” exhibit will open March 5 and remain in the Art Museum Lobby through March 31.

The third major event will be March 26 from noon to 2 p.m. in the University Center Ballroom. “Women Who Lead” will feature a panel discussion by U of M President Shirley Raines and the women who occupy four of the six vice-presidential-level positions at the University – Dr. Rosie Bingham, vice president for Student Affairs; Ms. Linda Bonnin, vice president for Communications, Public Relations and Marketing; Ms. Ellen Watson, vice president for Information Technology; and Ms. Julie Johnson, vice president for Advancement.

This is the first time ever that the President’s Executive Council has been predominantly female, so it is critical to capture and celebrate this unparalleled moment in the history of the University. Having a predominantly female executive council contributes uniquely to the campus climate, culture, aesthetics and overall success. Each of these female leaders will share their "herstories" of their journeys to advancement and success in their current roles.

Space is limited, so reservations are requested. They should be made by March 22 via email to Ms. Kelli O’Brien at kobrien1@memphis.edu. Light refreshments will be served.

“Women Who Lead” is sponsored by representatives of Women in Higher Education in Tennessee (WHET) at the University of Memphis.

A few of the other events set to take place during Women’s History Month at the main U of M campus are Wellness Days, March 6 and 26; Islamic Art, March 9; a screening of films dealing with domestic violence, March 25; the Mr. Gentleman Pageant, March 26; Women in Nursing, March 27; and several music concerts and women’s basketball and softball games.

Women’s History Month events at the U of M’s Lambuth Campus in Jackson will include Pie Day on March 13 and a Lunch and Learn meeting on March 28.

Details about these events, plus a full list of all U of M Women’s History Month events, are available online at www.memphis.edu/whm.

Study Abroad with the University of Memphis

Have you ever wanted to Study Abroad?  Brazil to England there is a program that every student can go to.  The excellent Study Abroad Office at the University of Memphis can help with any of your questions.  There are over 200 study abroad sites with tons of programs at the University covered in these studies. Keep reading to learn more about study abroad.  You can visit the Study Abroad website for more information.



The University of Memphis' Study Abroad Office provides the opportunity for students to study in 50 countries abroad and over 200 study sites. Our programs are labeled as bilateral exchanges, faculty-led programs or U of M sponsored programs. Students participating in any of the U of M programs may apply their financial aid and academic scholarships towards the program.

Bilateral Exchanges

U of M bilateral exchange programs are programs that offer students the opportunity to study at one of our partner schools abroad for a semester, academic year or summer. A student from the partner school will have the opportunity to study at the U of M. Students participating in an exchange program pay U of M tuition and the application fee. Students are responsible for paying their housing fees directly to the host institution.

Faculty–Led Programs

U of M faculty and academic departments organize UM study abroad programs for students. Students participating on a faculty-led program earn U of M credit. Course credit varies by program. Our faculty-led programs are offered during winter and summer sessions as well as fall and spring break. Some faculty-led programs are designed as residency programs while others are travel seminars that provide an in-depth introduction to the country. Since these programs are led by U of M faculty, they provide a wonderful opportunity for students to interact with faculty and share an international experience.

U of M Sponsored Programs

To enable us provide more options for study abroad locations the U of M has affiliations with some study abroad program providers. Students may apply to study abroad on any of our affiliated programs. Program costs, application fees and requirements for sponsored programs vary and students should contact the study abroad office for information on the individual sponsors. Students participating in a sponsored program will need to complete the U of M application as well as the program sponsors' application.
If you are participating in a UM sponsored program do not contact the program sponsor before contacting us.

Sponsored programs include the following:

Cultural Experiences Abroad (CEA)

CEA provides study abroad programs to U.S. students in 15 countries and 27 cities across the globe. One of the strengths of a CEA program is its strong student support services. It maintains offices at all study sites with a staff of experienced professionals to help you throughout your study abroad experience. The on-site staff organizes airport pick-up and transportation, serve as academic advisors, cross-cultural counselors and excursion coordinators.

College Consortium for International Studies (CCIS)

CCIS is a partnership of two and four year colleges and universities. CCIS members sponsor 90 study abroad programs in 29 countries around the world. CCIS provides an opportunity for students without any foreign language skills to study in non-English language destinations with instruction in English. In addition, most CCIS programs provide students with the option of living with a host family and have very competitive program costs.

Institute for Study Abroad – Butler University (IFSA-Butler)

IFSA-Butler is a non-profit organization founded in 1998 at Butler University. They maintain offices in all their program study sites to provide student support services. IFSA-Butler currently operates in 11 countries. IFSA-Butler partner institutions are highly recognized academic institutions such as the University of Oxford and the London School of Economics in England.

International Student Exchange Program (ISEP)

ISEP is a network of 275 colleges and universities in 39 countries cooperating to provide affordable exchange programs. ISEP students have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves into their host institution and host culture.
ISEP offers students two options:
ISEP-Exchanges: reciprocal exchange among ISEP Member institutions. Exchanges are between US and International Members. Thus for every U of M student who participates in an ISEP program, an international student from one of the ISEP network of schools will study at the University of Memphis. Students participating in an ISEP-Exchange program pay U of M tuition, housing and a stipend for meals and receive the same benefits from the host institution abroad.
ISEP-Direct: study abroad programs at ISEP Member institutions abroad open to students from ISEP Member and Affiliate institution. Students participating in an ISEP-Direct program pay ISEP direct fees.

Tennessee Consortium for International Studies (TNCIS)

Founded in 2006, TNCIS is a consortium of colleges and universities within the TBR system. Members sponsor and develop programs for students in TBR schools. Credits earned on TNCIS programs will appear as U of M issued grades on your transcripts.

Midterms are Upon Us

Before you know it, your first midterm exam will be here.  Make sure to check out these midterm preparation tips ahead of time so you will ace your tests.  As a student, the earlier you prepare, the easier it will be to remember everything the day of the test.  Check out these tips and comment with any of your own tips you may have for midterm studies.

1. Get a good night’s sleep before the exam.

2. An absolute must if you can: get prior years’ exams and, with a small group of classmates, prepare point form sample answers to share among yourselves.

3. Review your notes to see all the items the professor indicated were important. In some cases, s/he might even have hinted at exam topics.

4. Take a quick scan of the course outline – make a note of the topics the professor seemed to spend a lot of time on, or otherwise emphasized.

5. Take a look at the assignments if there were any – see if you can find topics, skills or techniques that were emphasized, especially those after the mid-term.

6. Did the professor comment on areas of weakness on the mid-term? These sometimes reappear on the final.

7. Make a set of study notes from your class notes and the text. Writing them down in condensed format aids in recall during the final exam, and in some cases, helps you identify items you need to clarify with a friend or teaching assistant. Work with the group you formed to address point 2. If you like – this can increase the scope of your studying.

8. If there is a key item you need to remember for the exam, study it right before you enter the exam room. Right after the exam starts, write down what you know. A favorite is to list formulas (or dates?) that you need to remember. If you wait until you are freaked out by a difficult exam question, you might not remember them.

9. Make sure you have a meal that includes carb’s AND proteins before the exam. This will give you staying power. Take a granola bar and fluids to your exam desk if permitted.

10. In case you have forgotten the first, and very important point, get a good night’s sleep before the exam.

For more information see RP.

Congrats to the University of Memphis!

The University of Memphis has been ranked in the top ten for the most successful internship programs in the country.  52% of students held internships before they graduated.  This beats the national average of 37% for the Class of 2011. 

 
The University of Memphis has one of the top 10 most successful internship programs of any college or university in the nation, according to the “Short List,” published by U.S. News & World Report.

At the U of M, 52 percent of students held internships prior to getting their undergraduate degrees. This compares to a national average of 36.9 percent for the class of 2011, the year the data was compiled.

U.S. News surveyed more than 1,800 colleges and universities to compile the list, with 330 of those surveyed providing internship data.

“The University of Memphis has long recognized the value of internships to a student’s education,” said Dr. Shirley Raines, president of the University. “Internships give students a good look at what their careers may be like after college, and research shows that students with internships on their resumes have higher job placements. Our increased emphasis on internships has resulted in the U of M being ranked as one of the top 10 universities for internships in the country.”

Raines said the U of M is grateful to the numerous businesses, schools, community agencies, hospitals, law firms, public service offices, non-profit organizations and other employers who provide internships for University of Memphis students.

In fall 2012, there were 2,350 U of M undergraduate students holding internships, according to Dr. Dixie Crase, director of Academic Internships at the University.

For more information about internships at the University of Memphis, visit www.memphis.edu/internships or contact Dr. Dixie Crase at 901-678-3102 or drcrase@memphis.edu.

The U. S. News “Short List” is available at http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/the-short-list-college/articles/2012/11/20/10-national-universities-that-produce-the-most-interns. Others who made the top 10 include Dartmouth College, Clemson University, Syracuse University and DePaul University. 

For more information see the University of Memphis.

Roommate Tips for Next Year

Are you going through a roommate change, or are you looking to get an apartment?  Make sure to read these tips on how to pick out roommates and keep a great relationship.  Being compatible in living together is one of the most important aspects of picking who will you live with the following school year.

When the going gets tough, the tough get ... housemates?

In these brutal financial times, having a housemate – or even two or three – can be one of the best ways to reduce your rent and other costs, and keep your head above water.

It can also be the quickest way to a murder rap, if you live with somebody who drives you up the wall.

How do you ensure that the “Roommate Remedy” doesn't turn into “Housemate Hell”? Fear not: We know how bad you look in black and white stripes. So we got the experts to cough up these 15 strategies for you.

Plan to succeed
The best way to make sure your roommate situation works, of course, is to actually create a good situation from the get-go – and that means choosing the right housemates.

How?

1. Start fresh. If possible, start out in a new living situation where no one thinks he or she has seniority and therefore more of a voice than anyone else in how the house or apartment is run, says Amy Zalneraitis, author of "Room for Improvement: The Post-College Girl's Guide to Roommate Living."

2. Play the numbers. "Always opt to live with one other person over two other people to avoid triangulated roommate relationships," Zalneraitis says. "For example, I once moved in with two girls who had already lived together for some time. Their apocalyptic-style partying would happen every Friday night. Because they were on the same page when it came to this type of partying (and had sort of established the rules or lack thereof before I moved in), it was hard for me to stop it. Two against one. I felt like I had very little power." (Zalneraitis notes that this applies much more to young women than to men, in her experience.)

3. Best friends — bad? "If you want to stay friends (with friends), then roommate with strangers," says Sylvia Bergthold, author of "Sorry, the Boa Has Gotta Go: A Roommate Survival Guide." "That way you keep your friends and hopefully make a new one in the process."

Why not live with friends? Because good friends take liberties in a living situation that put stress on the relationship, and the relationship often suffers as a result, Bergthold says."I've found that my most successful roommate situations have been people that I sort of knew, through friends of friends," Zalneraitis adds. "So I knew that I would have similar tastes to them, and that they weren't crazy, because a friend was vouching for them, but at the same time we weren't spending every minute together."

4. Play detective. "Spend some time together with each other and get a feel for that person," Zalneraitis says. Does he have totally different beliefs? Does one person like to party all the time and the other have to work early, every morning? Ask each other what your goals are in having a roommate: a best friend? A drinking buddy? An invisible rent-payer? "Pay attention to how people answer questions," Zalneraitis says.

5. Trust your gut. By the time you're in your 20s and 30s, you know enough about people to know if something doesn't feel right. Trust that instinct. A red flag now is likely trouble for you later. "Don't ever turn your 'crazy detector' off," Zalneraitis says. "You'd be surprised how many crazy/troubled/unpleasant people are out there."

For more information see MSN.