Special Edition Issue #2 - Nov. 23, 2010 - "Destination: Life"

The Official Newsmagazine of Dodge City High School • Nov. 23, 2010 • Volume 91 • Special Edition Issue #2

The DodgerDestination: Life

?What are you going to dowith the rest of your life?

College?

Vocational School?Workforce?

Military?

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www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER02 “Destination: Life” | COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY

The Dodger is a publication produced by the Dodge City High School journalism department. The newspaper attempts to inform and entertain its audience in a broad, fair, and accurate manner on all subjects that affect the readers. The publication seeks also to provide a forum for the opinion of students, the staff of the paper, and the faculty to encourage an exchange of ideas on all issues of prominence to readers. The Dodger staff encourages letters to the editors, as they constitute avenue for student opinion. Due to space limitations, not all letters can be published. The editors reserve the right to edit all letters for appropriate placement as long as the meaning and intent remain unchanged. The letter must be signed to be considered for publication. The opinions expressed throughout the publication are not necessarily those of the faculty, the administration, or USD #443. Unsigned articles are a general consensus of the staff, while signed articles are the personal forum of the writer. All letters, columns, stories, photos and art become legal property of The Dodger at the time they are submitted.

Luke Bunker .....................Co-EditorErin Finley .......................Co-EditorLeann Manriquez ................OpinionDeena Shaath ......................OpinionAlysia Garvalena ..........Student LifeJosie Zordel ..................Student LifeNatalie Cabello ........................NewsAustin Ridenour .....................SportsBrayden Whitaker ..................SportsCindy Moore ....................... AdviserAlonso Acevedo ...........Photo/VideoDane Edwards ..............Photo/Video

Dodger Staff

COLLEGE/TRADE SCHOOL • MILITARY • WORKFORCE/ENTREPRENEURSHIP

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Lineup

Editorial Policy

04 | College Tuition; Scholarships05 | Dual Credit Classes; AP Classes06 | College Preparation Checklist07 | Greek Life08 | Profile: Ethan Hutchcraft09 | Profile: Joshua Kinder10-11 | Profile: Hannah Love; Good Colleges for Certain Degrees, Careers12-13 | Graduation Requirements; Graduation Requirements Checklist14-15 | Profile: Andrew Astleford16 | Studying Abroad/Profile: Katie Jones; Job Shadowing17 | Trade Schools vs. Colleges; Transfers18 | Profile: Dr. Jordan Gwaltney19 | Dormroom Checklist20 | Profile: Christine Cammack Kerbs21 | Profile: Dr. Sarah Nelson26 | Q&A with Oscar Avila

22 | Profile: Spencer Barry; Military Checklist23 | Profile: Gary Bartlett; Web LInks

24 | Profile: Linda Burkhart25 | Profile: Sandra Garvalena

27-28 | Special Editorial from Chad Cross (News Director at KWCH) and Co-Editors

COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY | “Destination: Life” Issue #2THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 03

-Luke Bunker

Destination: Life”What will you do? Apply and attend a college or trade school?

Join the military or workforce? Perhaps open or start your own business?The options are truly endless.”

What path will/did youchoose after high school?

College/University: 85%Military: 6%

Workforce/Open Own Business: 3%Technical/Trade School: 2%

Other: 4%

The Dodger Online - October Poll

High school is truly our gateway to the rest of our world. What we do afterhigh school will determine the path the rest of our lives will take.

The questions we pose to our readers for this issue are: What will youdo? Will you apply and attend a college or trade school? Join the military or workforce? Perhaps open or start your own business? The options are truly endless.

Regardless of which path you choose after high school, it is

important to know what you’re getting yourself into, and how to prepare for those different pathways.

Throughout this issue are profiles of those who have gone to college, joined the military or workforce, or started their own businesses. It is our hope that these profiles will give you valuable insight into the lives of those currently following these pathways. Through their advice and experiences, we believe their stories are powerful, inspirational, and perhaps most importantly, helpful.

What brings the these profiles

even closer to home is that the majority of the profiles are about DCHS graduates. That’s correct, all but one of the following profiles are of former students of DCHS. When we look to the future, we sometimes think that, because we live in Southwest Kansas, our options are limited. These people and their stories show us that this is simply not the case. As Andrew Astleford (profiled on pp. 08-09) said, “Growing up, there were times when I thought Southwest Kansas was restricting. I felt isolated... But I think Dodge City taught me to work. I learned I had to hustle to create opportunity and to experience a larger world.”

Also scattered throughout the issue are a variety of stories and checklists that we think you will find helpful in making the major decisions about what to do after high school. It can be a daunting,

scary and complicated task, and we hope that this will make it a little less so.

When we began to work on this issue (our biggest yet), we knew it would be a challenge. Because of various production issues, we had to postpone publication by one week. However, we believe that we have used this extra time to make it our best issue yet.

Due to space limitations, some stories and features are printed here in their incomplete form. To read these stories and features in their entirety, we encourage you to visit us online at www.dchsdodger.com, your source for current news, sports, reviews, photo slideshows and so much more.

From all of us on the Dodger staff, enjoy!

Luke Bunker, Co-Editor

For current news, sports, reviews, photo slide-shows and so much more, visit us at:

www.dchsdodger.com

Find us on Facebook. Search for “The Dodger”*150 voters

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COLLEGE&UNIVERSITY

-Alysia GarvalenaSome colleges, such as Kansas

State University, are some of the better bargains in Kansas. K-State runs about $3,114 per semester, or $6,228 per year for those who live in Kansas. Out-of-state tuition is more expensive.

But if you are not a Wildcat fan and want a Jayhawk education, the University of Kansas in Lawrence is about $15,802 for one academic year for those who live in Kansas. Out-of-state tuition is approximately $28,608.

Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kan., will run you about $11,407 annually, or $19,804 for those who aren’t from Kansas. If you are looking at a college out of state, like the University of Oklahoma, you are looking at about $18,248 per academic year.

Where does all this money go? Look at Fort Hays State University. For example, you have to pay $131 per credit hour, approximately $3,943 in tuition and fees, about $840 in books and then $6,625 for room and board.

Scholarships, grants help students pay for college

What it takes to prepare for and get through university and college life

-Leann ManriquezIt’s that time of the year of

again; the leaves are changing, the air is cooler and the scholarships are pouring in. Many of the Kansas college scholarship deadlines are due in November.

“Get your scores from the SAT and ACT in,” says Sharon Mc-Donald, science teacher at DCHS. “Don’t pick undeclared as your major because you are more likely to get scholarships if you don’t.”

Indeed, one of the many re-quirements for scholarships is a certain ACT score or GPA. Other scholarships look at how you have helped in your community or

church. Not only do scholarships look at your high school achieve-ments, but also at the essay that most require you write. This essay is just as important as your admit-tance essay; it must edited, revised and rewritten, and should not be done at the last minute.

Scholarships are available not only for academics, but also for those special hidden talents like duck calling. The Chick and So-phie Major Memorial Scholarship awards a maximum of $2,000 to the person with the best duck call. If you’re better with a pen, then there is also the L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future contest,

A private liberal arts college has its tuition set almost $9,000 more than most public state colleges. William Jewell in Liberty, Mo., has its overall costs set at $35,650 for one academic year. Tuition and fees cost about $28,450 and approximately $7,200 for room and board, which depends on what residential hall you choose to live in.

If you are only interested in a junior college, then college will be a little cheaper. Dodge City Community College, for example,

charges about $2,250 for tuition and fees (if you live on campus) and if you are from Kansas. If you are coming from out-of-state to attend DCCC, then you will be paying about $300 more.

All schools offer chances at scholarships, and you can always apply for local or national grants to help pay for college. Many people choose to go into the military because it will pay for their college. Other options include student loans from banks that are paid over a matter of years.

which awards up to $4,000 to the best artist.

All you have to do to find these types of scholarships is search. If you have already chosen a college and are looking for scholarships for your school, simply check out their website.

“You need to check the website of the school you are considering, because every school has differ-ent deadlines, most of which are in October and November,” said Melanie Miller, counselor.

The Student Services Center at DCHS offers a variety of scholar-ships, from scholarships to specific colleges or fields to those available

to minorities. Though scholarships are great, you also can’t forget about grants, loans or the FASFA application that needs to be filled out by people 18 years of age or older. Another option is commu-nity scholarships; talk to your local store, restaurant, or beef plant and see if they offer any scholarships or grants.

“Get as many [scholarships] as you can before it’s too late,” sug-gests Laura Verduzco, 12.

Scholarships help in lightening the financial burden of college and help you focus more on your future than on your ability to pay.

College Tuition: Costs can be astronomical, affordable

• $$ FOCUS ON FINANCE $$ •


-Austin RidenourMany people in high school

think that Honors classes are the most difficult. But if you knew that DCHS offers AP (advanced placement) classes, then you would realize that these classes allow students to exceed in school to the fullest degree and to prepare even more for college.

“AP classes are classes that are designed to be college level in difficulty,” said Shannon Ralph, AP biology teacher at DCHS.

Students who take AP classes can get a college credit in that subject while still taking the class in high school. But students are also given the opportunity to take the national AP test for the potential to receive that college credit. For some students, this can be seen as an opportunity to get an early start in college towards that field of study.

“We recommend [AP for]

students who have been in Honors classes or who are high achievers, willing to work at college level assignments, [uphold] individual responsibility, and who fully intend to attend and graduate from a college or university upon completion of high school,” said Debbie Jones, AP English Literature and Composition teacher.

In order to get into AP classes you must meet the prerequisites. Also, the prerequisites differ in each content area; DCHS offers AP classes in (English) Language and Composition, (English) Literature and Composition, French, Biology, History and Calculus.

Only juniors and seniors are able to take AP classes.

“It’s a little difficult and time consuming, but in the end it’s worth it,” said Tanner Slattery, 12, who is currently taking AP Calculus, taught by Patrick Lopez.

AP classes challenge students, give opportunity to receive college credit

-Natalie CabelloIf you plan to start your college

career here at home, then dual credit classes may be right for you. Dual credit classes are classes taken at Dodge City Community College (DCCC) offering credits for both DCCC and DCHS. In other words, those classes count as high school credit at DCHS as well as college credit at DCCC.

Tara Salmans, counselor, explained how this works.

“The credits that you earn from the high school are not the same as the number of credit hours that you earn from the college,” she said. “If a college class meets for one hour, five times a week, it is considered a five credit hour class. If you are taking this class dual credit, you would earn five credit hours for college but only one credit for high school.”

The grade you get in dual credit classes will be on both your high school transcript and your DCCC

transcript.As you can see, this has several

advantages. You will finish off your high school career while also starting your college career at the same time. That means you will spend less time in the classroom, while gaining valuable experience for college. You will also get a feel for a real college setting. Best of all, you have the possibility of saving money, according to the course catalog at www.usd443.org. If you enroll in at least six credit hours, then tuition will be paid for you, but if you enroll in less than six, you will have to pay tuition. However, you are still responsible for book charges and other fees, no matter the number of credit hours in which you enroll.

To enroll in dual credit, you must be a junior or senior and meet certain requirements, according to Jennifer Mendoza, counselor.

“For a student to enroll in a dual credit class, we would like for them

to have good attendance at DCHS, be on track to graduate, and have good grades,” said Mendoza.

You need to enroll in enough classes to be in class five days a week—usually two classes. You can take dual credit classes anytime during the day, but Mendoza suggests taking them first and/or fifth block. However, class availability is limited.

“Right now it is difficult to offer some classes due to the numbers that need to enroll for a class at DCCC,” said Mendoza.

However, that doesn’t mean you are stuck with only a few class options.

“We are working with the community college to try to get as many classes as possible available to our DCHS students. Right now there are approximately 24 credit hours available to our DCHS students,” said Mendoza.

For those students interested in getting a technical degree, there are

some programs available for them as well, including Cosmetology, Certified Nurse’s Aide, Welding and Automotive, among others.

Like any other privilege, taking dual credit classes entails several responsibilities. You must be responsible for your attendance. The course catalog on the USD 443 website states that most professors will drop your grade a letter grade if you miss three or more days. For example, if you earn an A but you miss four days, you are now at a B. You must also maintain communication with the college. If you decide to drop the class, you need to let the college (as well as the high school) know that you’re dropping it by signing the add-drop consent form. Moreover, if you decide to drop one class, you must drop both. Also, if you drop the classes after the high school audit date, you will return to the high school and earn “no credit” for the remainder of the quarter.

Dual credit classes: A good head start toward college

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ATTENTION SENIORS

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FallPull Your Applications Together• Narrowyourlistofcolleges tofivetoeightandreview itwithyourcounselor.Get anapplicationandfinancialaid infofromeach.Visitasmany aspossible.• Makeamastercalendarand note: Testdates,feesanddeadlines Applicationduedatesand deadlines Financialaidapplicationsand deadlines Yourhighschool’sdeadlines forapplicationrequests(like transcripts)• Askforrecommendations. Giveeachpersonyourresume, astampedandaddressed envelopeandanyrequired forms.• Writeapplicationessaysand askteachers,familymembers, etc.toreadthem.

Apply• Nov.1:Forearlyadmission, collegesmayrequiretest scoresandapplicationsin earlyNovember.Sendyour necessarytestscores.Get Financial Aid Info• Attendfinancialaidinfoevents inyourarea.• Talktoyourcounselorabout CSS/FinancialAidPROFILE® anduseScholarshipSearch, reviewscholarshipbooks,and askyourcounseloraboutlocal andstatefundingsources.

WinterReview Application Details• Mostregularapplicationsare duebetweenJan.1andFeb. 15.Keepcopiesofeverything yousendtocolleges.• Haveyourhighschoolsend yourtranscripttocolleges.• Contactcollegesto makesurethey’vereceived allapplicationmaterials.

Apply for Financial Aid• Youandyourfamilyshould savethisyear’spaystubsto estimateincomeonaidforms thatyou’llfilelateron.• SubmityourFAFSAas soonafterJan.1aspossible. Menwhoare18yearsof ageoroldermustregister withSelectiveServiceto receivefederalfinancialaid.• Manypriorityfinancialaid deadlinesfallinFebruary. Togetthemostattractive awardpackages,applybythe prioritydate.

SpringReview Acceptance Letters• Youshouldgetacceptance lettersandfinancialaidoffers bymid-April.• Compareawardsfrom differentcolleges.Talk tofinancialaidofficersatyour collegeifyouhavequestions abouttheawardoffered.

• Visityourfinalcollegebefore accepting.Make Final Choice by May 1• Telleverycollegeofyour acceptanceorrejectionof offersbyMay1.Senda deposittothecollegeyou choose.• Wait-listed?Ifyouwillenroll ifaccepted,telltheadmission officeryourintentandaskhow tostrengthenyourapplication.• Needfinancialaid?Askif fundswillbeavailableif you’reaccepted.

SummerTake the Next Steps• Askyourhighschooltosenda finaltranscripttoyourcollege.• Startpreparingfortheyear ahead.

Information adapted fromwww.collegeboard.com.

-Leann Manriquez & Luke Bunker

Preparing for college: a checklist

-Erin FinleyOnedecisionyouhavetomake

whenattendingacollegeiswhereyouwillbeliving.Collegesoffermany options to students. Therearedormsandapartments,aswellasoff-campusliving.Ifyouattenda college in your hometown, youmightevenliveathome.However,another option is to live in asororityorfraternity. Evenifyouchoose not to live in the house,GreekLifecanbeafunexperience.

“I chose tobe a part ofGreekLife to meet new people andmake new friends,” said DeborahChipman,AlphaGammaDelta.“Ialso thought it would be fun tobe involved more with campusactivitiesthroughthesorority.“

The first Greek fraternityoriginatedattheCollegeofWilliamandMary in 1776. It was calledPhiBetaKappa,accordingtowww.gmu.edu.Thissystemgrewinthe1800sandmovedacrosstheUnitedStates.WithWorldWar I and II,manyfraternitiesclosedbecauseofthemanymenwholeftcollege.Inthe 1980s, membership boomedbut many changes were made tothefraternityandsororitysystems.Today, fraternities and sororitiesare still very popular, althoughtheyaredifferentfromtheoriginalsystem.

According to www.fhsu.edu, “beingamemberofafraternityorsororityisoneofthebestwaysforyoutogetinvolvedincampuslife,makenewfriendsandenrichyourcollegeexperience.”

Involvement in Greek Lifecan get you a scholarship aswellas help develop leadership skills.Many sororities and fraternitiesalsodocommunityservice.

“I learned valuable leadershipskills as amember of a sorority,”said Susan Finley,Alpha GammaDelta. “You have to hold anofficeinasorority.Iworkeduptopresidentmylastyear.Thisofficerequires a lot of commitment andresponsibility. You have to learnhowtobeagoodleader.”

To be a part of a sorority orfraternity,youmustfirstgothroughwhatiscalled“Rush.”Rushishowsororities and fraternities selectnewmembers.

“DuringRush, you are invitedto all the sororities on campus,”said Finley. “The year I rushed,theyhad themedpartiesyouwereinvitedtoattend.Yougettomeetallthegirlsthere.Forthefirstparty,everyoneisinvitedandthen,afterthat,thesororitiesinviteyoubackiftheythinkyoucanbeagoodfit.”

AccordingtoChipman,Rushisa“meet-and-greet”typeofactivity.

“Iattendedgatheringsforeachsorority, talked to the membersand asked them questions abouttheir particular sorority,” saidChipman.“Ithoughtitwasfun!”

During Rush, sororities andfraternities will pick the peoplethey think will fit best with theirprogram. After theyhavepicked,“pledgeship”begins.Pledgescom-plete various tasks and then areofficiallyinductedintothesororityorfraternity.

Decadesago,hazingwasoftenapartofsororitiesandfraternities.However, that is illegal now sopledges shouldn’t have to worryaboutit.

If you are a member of asorority or fraternity, you maybegiven thechance to live in thehouse. Some organizations evenrequire that you live there if theyhaveroom.Livinginahousewithother studentsgivesyoua chancetomake friendsaswell ashaveagreattime.

“I really liked that there werealways people around,” said Fin-ley. “Twenty-six of us lived ina house. We shared chores androomswiththeothergirls.”

Manystudents like togo to acollegefirstandthendecideiftheywanttojoinasororityorfraternity.Thisgivesthemachancetocheckout different ones to decide ifthey want to be part of GreekLife.Youdonothavetopledgeasafreshman.

“When I went to college, youhad to go on Wednesday, butclassesdidn’tstartuntilMonday,”saidFinley.“Ididn’tknowanyone,so somebody suggested that IsignupforRushWeekwhichwasThursday through Sunday. I metmanypeople,butIdidn’tjoinrightaway.”

Aspartofasororityorfraternity,

therewillbemanychancesforyoutoget involvedon campus and inthe community. You will createmany memories and friendshipsthat will last a lifetime. GreekLife teaches valuable lessons tomembers and creates a sense of“brotherhood”or“sisterhood.”

“Beingamemberofasororityhelped me learn about differentpersonalitiesofindividualpeople,”said Chipman. “It also taught me

howtoworkhardonanyprojectIwasinvolvedwithandtocooperatewiththeoverallgroup.”

Greek Life can be a positiveexperienceformanystudents.Doa little research and decide ifyou want to be a part of GreekLife. College websites have alink describing theGreekLife ontheircampus.Ifyouareinterestedin Greek Life and are visiting acollege,askalotofquestions.

ΔΣΘΛΩXΥ-Go Greek!

Greek Life. TheAlphaGammaDeltasororityatFortHaysStateposeforagrouppicturein1985.• Courtesy Photo


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-Brayden WhitakerThe transition from high school

senior to college freshman in today’s world can be a hard and sometimes confusing one.

Not for Ethan Hutchcraft, though. He is going through the transition very easily.

“I think that, in my opinion, it’s not really as hard as people seem to make it be,” said Hutchcraft. “I think the biggest thing is just being outgoing and getting involved in different activities around school.”

Last school year, Hutchcraft was enjoying his last year as a student at Dodge City High School. Today, you can find him a four hour drive away in Manhattan, where he is currently a student at Manhattan Christian College (MCC).

Leaving DCHS was somewhat difficult for Hutchcraft.

“[DCHS] is a place where I have grown up my whole life. My dad has been teaching there since I was born, so I literally grew up going to DCHS,” said Hutchcraft.

But now Hutchcraft is at MCC, and is very busy when it comes to classes and activities he is involved in.

Hutchcraft is currently working on getting his Bible Degree. Classes that he is taking right now include Introduction into New Testament, Introduction into Old Testament, Introduction into Christian Service, Written Comp I and General Sociology.

“I love my classes; they are very interesting and teach you a lot, not just from a Christian perspective, but also from a non-Christian perspective,” said Hutchcraft.

When it comes to school activities, Hutchcraft is very involved. He is a photographer for the MCC yearbook. He goes to various gatherings with some of his classmates. He is also ball boy for the MCC soccer team.

“I get good exercise and I get to be close to the game I love,” said Hutchcraft.

Hutchcraft also helps with the Boys and Girls Club by being a volunteer at a local elementary school.

But in such a short time at college, Hutchcraft has learned a valuable lesson that any college freshman should use.

“I think the biggest challenge would be being able to manage your

time,” said Hutchcraft. “College classes are tougher than high school, but it also seems like you have more time in college. You just need to figure out a good way to manage your time to do homework and doing activities you want to do.”

If you know anything about Hutchcraft, you know that he is a die-hard Kansas State University Wildcat fan. The multiple purple articles of clothing that he owns and the mass amount of Wildcat football and basketball games that he has been to lets you know that he is serious when it comes to his love for K-State.

Next semester, Hutchcraft is hoping to officially become a Wildcat and take classes at Kansas State University.

“Honestly, I think the craziest thing is coming to Manhattan and realizing that not everyone here is a K-State fan,” said Hutchcraft. “But the atmosphere is just so much better going to the games and seeing people you know personally cheering on K-State.”

Hutchcraft says that he doesn’t know what he wants to major in while attending K-State, but it’s

either going to be something in Photojournalism or Education.

“I think it would be awesome to be able to help kids someday,” said Hutchcraft. “I want to be able to become a positive influence on kids’ lives daily.”

But even through the excitement that college brings, Hutchcraft still misses things about DCHS.

“The biggest thing I miss about DCHS is the people. A lot of my friends still attend DCHS and I miss not getting to hang out and interact with them everyday,” said Hutchcraft. “It’s very hard when people bring up how well DCHS activities are doing, just because it reminds you that you were once part of that.”

While Hutchcraft may have already said “hasta luego,” his signature parting phrase, to being a student at Dodge City High School, the Red Demon will always live inside of him. But for now, he has more years of college to look forward to.

Red Roots, Purple PrideFormer DCHS student Ethan Hutchcraft experiences transfers among colleges

Manhattan Christian College. • DCHS graduate Ethan Hutchcraft sits on the sign for Manhattan Christian College (MCC), located in Manhattan, Kan. Hutchcraft, who currently attends MCC, plans to take classes at Kansas State University in the Spring 2011 semester. • Photo Courtesy


-Austin Ridenour“I considered going to Wichita

State briefly, but was pretty set on K-State early on,” said Joshua Kinder. “I chose K-State after I visited there to meet the adviser of the college newspaper at the time. I knew then I had to be a Wildcat. It was the coolest thing I had ever seen and I wanted to a part of it.”

Kinder is currently the sports editor at The Manhattan Mercury in Manhattan, Kan. Kinder coordinates sports coverage for Kansas State University, Manhattan High School, Manhattan Christian College and for six area high schools.

“As the editor, I’m the lead

beat writer for K-State football and women’s basketball, while

serving as the secondary writer and columnist for men’s basketball,” said Kinder.

After graduating from Dodge City High School in 1998, Kinder attended Kansas State University, where he worked for the university’s newspaper, the Collegian. Kinder graduated from K-State in 2004.

Kinder’s first job out of college was covering DCHS sports for the Dodge City Daily Globe for three years. He went on to a brief stint covering the Oklahoma Sooners for the Lawton Constitution in southwest Oklahoma. Kinder joined the Manhattan Mercury in January 2007.

“College life was fun. One reason why it took me six years

to complete was because I was not motivated enough for class,” said Kinder. “I spent the majority of my first three years working at the college newspaper and really ended up blowing off classes, which eventually backfired, and I had to spend the last three years at K-State getting my classes together.”

While Kinder doesn’t really have a lot time for hobbies because of his busy work schedule, he does find time for a few things. An avid Texas Rangers baseball fan, Kinder likes to use his free time to work out and to collect sports memorabilia and anything

Monkees (a rock band from the 1960s).

“Most of my free time doesn’t involve watching sports, oddly enough,” said Kinder.

Kinder played sports here at DCHS, but was not the most athletic student-athlete. He played football, wrestled and participated in track and golf.

“I was horrible at sports, too,” continued Kinder. “I was too slow in football, too uncoordinated for wrestling, not strong enough in track and was way too impatient for golf. But I tried.”

Kinder was a member the Dodger newspaper staff at DCHS during his junior and senior years. He served as an assistant sports editor for two years.

As sports editor, Kinder has a lot of perks to his job.

“I love just about everything about my job,” said Kinder. “It’s taken me about 10 years to get where I’m at now. I don’t generally miss a football or basketball game, [on the] road or at home, and that’s a perk,” said Kinder. “I’ve built relationships here at K-State, have made lifetime friendships and have been able to meet some of the most interesting people in sports along the way.”

He gets to travel wherever the teams are playing. Kinder says one perk of his job is all the places to which he gets to travel. But the downside of the job is the amount of time he travels. Kinder can be gone weekend after weekend during a 10-month span.

“I’ve covered basketball tournaments in Las Vegas, Oklahoma City, Kansas City, Salt Lake City, Wyoming, Connecticut and New Mexico,” continued Kinder. “I get to make regular trips to Dallas, and I’ve been to every Big 12 city, even covering a football game at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.”

When Kinder was asked what advice he would give to kids who are thinking about college, he advised this:

“First of all, go to class. It makes things a lot easier in the end,” said Kinder.

“Don’t be afraid to break out of your comfort zone and try something different, too. College was one of the greatest experiences of my life, including the ups and downs. It’s funny, because I spent the entire time in college wishing I were out of college. But now, I spend a lot of time wishing I were back in school some days.”

“Don’t be afraid to break out of your comfort zone”

Love of sports becomes career

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-Erin FinleyThinking about college can

be scary for some students. It is a big transition in a student’s life. However, many students before you have gone through the same transition and achieved great success, as well as creating memories along the way. College can be an exciting time if you embrace it and try new things.

Hannah Love graduated from DCHS in 2004. She was involved in many activities that prepared her for college.

“I took a lot of honors classes, but I also took art classes,” said Love. “One of my favorite classes was Calculus with Mr. Lopez. This class really helped prepare me for college. It taught me to study and to work hard.”

Love took the AP test her senior year, and although she didn’t pass the test, her knowledge greatly helped her in college.

“Lopez really knows what he’s doing. I took calculus in college and my grade was 99%,” said Love.

During high school, Love was also involved in cross country, track and Stuco.

After high school, Love chose to attend the University of Kansas. Picking a college isn’t an easy task, and Love suggests that students start looking at colleges well before high school graduation.

“I think it’s hard to know how to prepare for college. Taking college prep classes is always helpful, but getting ready for college involves so many things outside of the classroom,” said Love. “One thing that is important is to be confident about where you want to go to college. Look at the websites, the costs, and if possible, visit the campuses.”

When Love was looking at colleges, she wanted a bigger college. Knowing this can help students narrow down options and not be so overwhelmed. High school students can think about what they want in a college and this will help them make their decision.

“I chose KU because I wanted to be close enough to home that I could drive, and the in-state tuition was appealing,” said Love. “I also

loved the progressive political atmosphere of Lawrence, Kan. Size is a big issue for a lot of students. I wanted to go to a school

with 28,000 other students, but that’s not for everyone.”

Getting involved in college is an important part of the experience.

Many colleges have hundreds of clubs and many other activities that students can get involved in. These activities can help students and

make college more enjoyable. “The people I met at college

made the experience fun,” said Love. “At a major institution, I was able to meet people from all over the world - people with all sorts of ideas, viewpoints and ideas.”

Love was excited about the many clubs offered in college and took advantage of them. She was meeting with a different club almost every evening out of the week.

“On a college campus, there are hundreds of clubs to be involved with,” said Love. “If you can dream it, you can create a club for it. There are so many opportunities to hang out with people who enjoy the same things you do.”

As a college student, Love was active in the Honors Program, the Dole Institute of Politics, KU Young Democrats, Sexual Education Committee and also participated in many different volunteer opportunities. However, her main involvement was with the Student Government.

“I served as Student Body president in 2007-2008 and oversaw the $18.5 million dollar budget,” said Love. “In my position, I served as the liaison between the students, the Chancellor, the provost and the state legislature. I was able to fly all over the state and nation presenting, giving speeches, lobbying, and meeting with other students. In the spring of 2008, we wrote a bill about textbook accountability and presented it to the State House and Senate. It didn’t pass, but it was still a great experience.”

Love graduated from KU in 2008 and is currently working on her Master’s Degree in Student Affairs at Colorado State University. She is also currently working for Parent and Family Programs.

“In college, there is a lot of work that goes on inside the classroom, but there are also a lot of things that happen outside of the classroom, from the clubs you join

On (top) of her world. • Love poses for a picture while balancing on a rock at Rocky Mountain National Park. • Election night (below). • Love celebrates her election as student body president at the University of Kansas. • Photos Courtesy

Graduation day (below). • Love and her friends pause for a picture after graduating from the University of Kansas in 2008. • Photo Courtesy

>>Continued on page 11

DCHS graduate seizes opportunities at college,becomes student body president at the University of Kansas

“New Entertainment for the Old West”Dinner Theater in a Historic Setting


to weekend retreats, to programs to learn about social justice and diversity,” said Love. “My job is to coordinate and facilitate these opportunities. I spend a lot of time explaining college to parents. We teach our parents that before a student goes to college they should learn how to wake up to an alarm clock, how to do laundry and how to manage money.”

College is very different from high school and will be a whole new experience. Love recommends that students take their time when deciding on a major.

“It’s important to really explore and find something that makes you happy,” said Love. “You should have a job (or major)

that makes you so happy you would pay money to go to work everyday. Sometimes, there is a lot of pressure to pick something fast. Take your time and explore

different areas. Research shows that most people don’t pick their careers until late 20s or early 30s. So, it’s okay to go to college and explore. It’s also okay to go and not know exactly what you want to do. I’m 25 and still exploring. I’m

not sure what my next step will be, but I’m looking forward to the adventure.”

Although college is full of hard work, there are also great

memories involved that students will remember for the rest of their lives. College is an important milestone in a person’s life.

“Sometimes, it’s not the big events that make the most meaningful memories,” said Love.

“I remember one beautiful spring day going to ‘The Hill’ to watch the football team scrimmage. On our way back, we all decided to jump into the Chi-Omega Fountain. There aren’t many fountains it is ‘okay’ to swim in, but at KU there’s a fountain you are expected to swim in before you graduate. The day was beautiful, the sun was shining and classes were about to end. It was just perfect.”

Want some advice from a DCHS alum and KU graduate?

“Don’t be afraid. If it’s worth doing, it’s probably scary.”

-Leann ManriquezPicking the best college for

your degree can be hard. You have to factor in costs, location and standard of teaching, but sometimes you’re lucky and don’t have to look far to find your college.

The University of Kansas in Kansas City, Kan., is listed as one of the top 40 schools for nursing and teaching. The annual cost is $15,803, but with scholarships (registration for them is due Dec. 1) it can significantly cut that cost to a lower point.

The University of Colorado,

in Boulder, Colo., ranks 39 on the same list and is also close to home. The total estimated cost of an on-campus tuition is $23,250. The deadline for applying for this school is March 1.

If you’re looking for a college that involves liberal arts, one of the best journalism schools is located in Missouri. The University of Missouri in Columbia, Mo., is listed as one of the top 50 schools of journalism and also offers 285 degree programs and 40 online degree programs. The cost per year (which includes fall and spring semesters for a total of 14 credit

hours) is a total of $32,470.You should not always rule out

online schools, however; especially if money is tight, these could be a good fit. For example, one of the best schools in psychology is the University of Phoenix or Grand Canyon University. If you would rather go to a physical college, then Colorado Christian University in the Denver, Colo., area is another choice to consider. Just make sure that you pick the state you’re planning to live in because licensing laws can vary from state to state.

If you’re planning to study

abroad, Arcadia University in Glensdale, Pa., is ranked number one for studying abroad. Their program allows freshmen who meet certain requirements to go for a semester to Africa, Europe, and even parts of Asia.

Remember that one of the best ways to narrow down your college search is to actually visit the college, because the people and the atmosphere also play a big part in your decision.

Sometimes it can be like fitting a square peg into a round hole, but once you find your fit, you’ll slide right in.

Good colleges for certain degrees, careers“Sometimes you’re lucky and don’t have to look far to find your college.”

>>Continued from page 10

1712 Central • P.O. Box 176Dodge City, KS 67801

620.225.2888 • 1.800.779.0753Fax: [email protected]

Susie Reardon

The DepotTheater Company

201 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd. • P.O. Box 661Dodge City, KS 67801 620.225.1001

“It’s important to really explore and find something that makes you happy... You should have a job(or major) that makes you so happy you wouldpay money to go to work everyday... Take your

time and explore different areas.”

To view staff alumni information, please visit us online at www.

dchsdodger.com!

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Wes A. OwensFinancial Advisor

100 Military Plaza, Suite 108Dodge City, KS 67801

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GRADUATION IS NO TIME TO LEARNYOU HAVEN’T SAVED ENOUGH FOR COLLEGE

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

-Luke BunkerWhen thinking about how to

prepare oneself for life after high school, finishing high school by completing the set requirements are heavy on the minds of many students.

According to Melanie Miller, counselor at DCHS, there are three different requirements for each different diploma available through graduation at DCHS: the standard DCHS diploma, Qualified Admissions (for admittance into Kansas public universities) and Regents Diploma (also known as the Kansas Scholars Curriculum).

“The DCHS Diploma contains requirements that all students have to meet in order to graduate from DCHS,” said Miller. “The Qualified Admissions is a plan followed by students who plan to go straight to a four-year Kansas public university. Taking these particular classes help students prepare for college-level classes. Meeting those curriculum requirements is one of three ways to be accepted. The other two are being the top third in your class or earning a 21 or better on the ACT. Regents, otherwise known as the ‘Kansas Scholars Curriculum,’ is for students who want to excel in academics and take additional math, science and foreign language [classes].”

According to Debbie Lloyd, counselor at DCHS, there are several added requirements for selection as a Kansas State Scholar.

“If a student wants to be considered for selection as a Kansas State Scholar by the Board of Regents, they must complete the Regents curriculum and take the ACT by December of their senior year,” said Lloyd. “Students who are named state scholars may be eligible for state scholarships based on financial need.”

When it comes to requirements for the standard DCHS Diploma, Lloyd feels that DCHS has a good variety that prepares students for life after high school.

“Our Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes are doing a great job to modernize our curriculum and are working to base

classes based on industry needs and student interest,” said Lloyd.

Regardless of the diploma each student at DCHS strives to earn, there are several challenges and mind-set issues they may face in achieving it.

“For some freshmen, [these requirements are] a wake-up call on the importance of passing classes,” said Miller. “In prior years, they may have been passed through to the next level regardless if they passed the class or not. In high school, that is not the case. If they don’t earn the credits, they cannot be passed to the next level. For example, a student may not start English 10 until they have passed English 9. We have many seniors who are disappointed in themselves that they didn’t start taking school seriously at an earlier grade level. They are stuck taking additional E2020 credits or miss out on the chance to graduate early.”

Lloyd recognizes the difficulty in choosing between the various diplomas available through graduation at DCHS and fitting it all in to four years.

“It is sometimes difficult to choose between an interest area and going for the Regents Diploma,” said Lloyd. “For example, if a student is musically talented and wants to take as many music-based classes as possible, they may not get to take what they want if they also have to fit in required classes.”

As many know, counselors are available in the Student Services Center to assist students in making decisions regarding their education. Counselors serve as a vital link between students understanding the requirements and actually completing them.

“High school counselors work with students to take requirements throughout high school so that they have room for electives,” said Miller. “However, some years, such as freshman year, seem to have more requirements than others. By putting together an education plan their freshman year, students are able to balance requirements and electives throughout the four years and meet their educational goals.”

On the flip side, for a variety of reasons, many students do not complete high school. However, according to Miller, there are still options available for completing a high school education.

“If a student is unable to meet the DCHS requirements by their graduation date, they can attend summer school to try to complete the required credits/requirements. If that is not possible, they are encouraged to finish their high school diploma through the Adult Education Program.”

For many students, comparing what classes they take in high school with what they want to do in their future may prove to be a difficult task. Lloyd advises students to make the decision that is most beneficial for their future.

“Students should choose classes based on their college or employment career goals,” said Lloyd. “You want to be as prepared as possible. Sometimes it

may be more of a benefit to choose something related to what you want to do someday, rather than aiming for Regents. [This] may also bring more scholarship opportunities.”

Vanessa Nunez, a senior at DCHS, has additional advice for students looking to keep their requirements and electives balanced out throughout their four years in high school. She recommends getting the requirements out of the way as early as possible.

“What I’ve done to get my graduation requirements completed is try to get my important classes done first, as well as pass them,” said Nunez. “A lot of people go into class saying, ‘well, I can take this class later,’ and end up flunking it. That’s not very smart because graduation creeps up on you fast and you end up way behind. So I go into class and get my work done. Yes, I procrastinate, but it gets done.”

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-Luke Bunker“I should not be here. I

started all wrong. I was misguided, stupid now that I think about it. I fell in love with sports writing when the sports part was all I knew,” writes Andrew Astleford on his web site, “A Sportswriting Life” (www.andrewastleford.com). “Growing up, I relived football heroics below banana boat leaves of thick Kansas cottonwood trees. When friends were busy breaking bones on bicycles, my heart bounced to the sweet sound of personal play-by-play. These memories are as golden as the foliage that crunched below my Converse shoes and remain the seedlings of a dream that sings today. Along the way, I fell in love with the written word. I cherished its music. Newsprint touched my conscience, tickled my nose. …Years later, I have not changed much. I am passionate about writing, about telling stories with a narrative voice.”

So goes the transition from a young boy with a passion for sports to the adult who has written for the Dodge City Daily Globe, Hutchinson News, Orlando Sentinel, the

Washington Post, Columbia Missourian, and Indianapolis Star. Andrew Astleford, a

member of the Dodge City High School graduating class of 2005, has transformed his passion for sports writing into a career, influenced along the way by various writers and publications.

“I read the Kansas City Star’s sports section a lot in high school. The Star embraced narrative storytelling, so writers there planted the seed. Wright Thompson, formerly of the Star and now with ESPN.com, has been gracious. He continues to be an influence,”

said Astleford. “When I was in college at the University of Missouri, my editor at the

Columbia Missourian, Greg Bowers, helped me develop through countless hours of editing. I had a once-in-a-lifetime writing coach at MU, Jacqui Banaszynski. So many

people have helped and/or

inspired me. Lynn Hoppes, now at ESPN.com, gave me my first big internship at the Orlando Sentinel. Tommy Gallagher and Gene Schinzel let me write for the Hutchinson News when I was in high school. As a writer, you never do this alone. I only hope that I am good enough one day so I can pay it forward.”

Being born and raised in Dodge City was also a major factor in who he is as a journalist today.

“I am a big believer that I view the world in a certain way because I was born and raised in Dodge City,” said Astleford. “People are amazed when I tell them that I had to drive 2 1/2 hours to Wichita whenever I wanted to fly

Hard work, passion and drive send DCHS graduate into a fruitful career in journalism

• Andrew Astleford •Hearst Winners: 2010 Entry (1st), 2009 Entry (3rd), 2008 Entry (12th)

Education: Dodge City High School, University of Missouri, Macquarie University

Issu

e #2


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somewhere. Honestly, growing up, there were times when I thought Southwest Kansas was restricting. I felt isolated, and I know some of my classmates shared the same mind-set. But I think Dodge City taught me to work. I learned I had to hustle to create opportunity and to experience a larger world. I am proud of where I came from, and I was lucky to have the childhood I did.”

According to Astleford, the classes he took while attending Dodge City High School were also a great influence on how he views the world and on his career today.

“Paula Ripple’s junior and senior English classes at DCHS remain the most rewarding of my life. Very few courses in high school and college push you to question your perceptions about the world. What a gift,” said Astleford. “Of course, Cindy Moore played an instrumental role in letting me dirty my hands at the Dodger. I came up with a crazy idea to put together a Tournament of Champions preview section my last two years there. She was gracious enough to let me run with the concept. I think I trudged into her office at 7:30 a.m. on some days to make calls. Those were innocent years. Anything seemed possible.”

Of all the stories and assignments that Astleford has worked on over the years, he holds several in high regard. One of them involves covering New Orleans after the Saints won their Super Bowl title.

“I like stories about people and places, because they reveal the most about the human condition,” said Astleford. “Last winter, I was

in New Orleans during the Saints’ NFL playoffs run. On Super Bowl Sunday, I wrote an atmosphere piece for ESPN.com Page 2 about what it was like to be here, and I probably will have few professional experiences that top reporting

in the French Quarter when the Saints clinched the title. Downtown went bonkers. The victory meant so much to this city and its people. I have been fortunate to witness some amazing things.”

Speaking about his current place of residence and occupation, New Orleans, Astleford feels that he is happiest there.

“I moved to New Orleans after completing an internship at the Indianapolis Star in July,” said Astleford. “I love the city and am happiest here. I write for the New Orleans Times-Picayune as a contributing writer covering preps and general assignment. I am not sure how long this will last, but I am content with my situation at this time.”

Astleford leaves some advice for students at the high school level who are contemplating going into journalism, saying that a “passion for storytelling” is an absolute must-have.

“Learn to report for story.

Gather scene and sensory details when interviewing. Turn the subject into a storyteller. Write as much as you can. But learn the bells and whistles - video, photo, social media, and Web design - as well,” said Astleford. “Honestly, the

landscape has changed so much in the past five years, when I entered J-school [journalism school] at Missouri. And things will only evolve more at a breakneck pace. To survive in the current landscape, you must have a passion for storytelling. You can’t do this halfway. It’s impossible. The future is unknown, and that is both scary and exciting. But I have always told stories. I can’t see myself doing anything else.”

With regards to the possible

budget cuts facing journalism courses in Kansas at the high school level, Astleford believes it is a sad situation.

“The Dodger made me fall in love with journalism,” said Astleford. “I would not be where I am today without that experience. It is sad to think how many potential future writers will never tap into that discovery if journalism education is de-emphasized within Kansas high schools. Journalism is experiencing uncertainty that is unprecedented in the modern era. We need bright minds for the future.”

When looking to the future, Astleford has high hopes and goals for his career.

“One day, I want to be an enterprise sportswriter for a national website or magazine such as Sports Illustrated or ESPN The Magazine. ESPN.com is doing some great stuff with its ‘Outside the Lines’ franchise, and I would love to be a part of something similar,” said Astleford. “Life is a journey. I try to enjoy the ride.”

Hard work, passion and drive send DCHS graduate into a fruitful career in journalism

“...growing up, there were times when I thought Southwest Kansas was restricting. I felt

isolated... But I think Dodge City taught me to work. I learned I had to hustle to create

opportunity and to experience a larger world. I am proud of where I came from, and I was

lucky to have the childhood I did.”


Issu

e #2


-Brayden WhitakerSometimes, learning about the

cultures and traditions of another country can take more than just learning about it in an American college classroom - you have to experience it for yourself.

That’s exactly what DCHS graduate Katie Jones is doing. Jones is currently studying abroad in Italy this semester.

Jones is currently attending Kansas State University, studying abroad at the Lorenzo de’ Medici in Florence, Italy, and is planning to work in the Linguistics field.

“For me, living in another country is important because it gives you a different outlook on life, one that would be hard to find if you stay in the same culture you grew up in,” said Jones.

Studying abroad is when a student will travel to a foreign country and learn about its people, places, cultures, traditions, food and languages to gain a first-hand perspective.

Studying abroad carries with it many benefits and advantages. When studying abroad, a student will get to travel to places that they wouldn’t normally often get the chance to visit. It also gives

students the chance to experience the country for themselves, which gives them deeper knowledge than what they would get sitting in a classroom.

“So far I’ve been to Germany,

Studying abroad also gives you an edge when it comes to employment for a better, higher-paying job. Employers like to see these types of educational courses on a resume.

different countries and see how life is different from here in the United States. Often times, it opens students’ eyes to show how different life can be.

Another thing you’ll learn if you study abroad is not only the cultures of different places around the world, but also the languages. It is important for a student to learn the language of the country if he or she wants to really get into what it’s like to live in that place.

“The people in Italy and France especially appreciate when you approach them in their own language, even if you are terrible at it,” said Jones. “They will probably switch to English, but they are more polite and eager to help you if you show them you are interested in learning their language.”

Studying abroad is a great opportunity to have while in college, especially if you’re going into a work field that has some sort of geographic or human relations education needed. It not only provides a wonderful education, but it also provides a once-in-a lifetime opportunity to travel.

An exotic education:Studying abroad provides life experiences for former DCHS student

Memorable travels. Katie Jones, a former DCHS student, stands in front of the birth-place of WIlliam Shakespeare in Stratford-Upon-Avon, United Kingdom. Jones travels all over Europe while she studies abroad. • Photo Courtesy

Ireland and Scotland, and each culture is very unique,” said Jones. “As a tourist, if you are willing, you can learn a lot about the history of the city you are visiting, and if you really try to interact with the locals and try traditional dishes, when you leave you can feel like you truly experienced something unique to that country.”

“My study abroad experience is helping me improve my Italian, and no matter what field you are in, time abroad looks amazing on a resume. It shows that you are independent, willing to try new things and probably a pretty driven student,” said Jones

But the main reason why most people study abroad is to go to

-Deena ShaathThere are many ways in which

a student can get insight into a job that he or she is interested in. One such way is shadowing through the health science class taught by Mr. Pelton. Shadowing allows students to go and watch a health-related professional in action. Students can shadow doctors, dentists, veteri-narians, chiropractors and nurses.

“It is good for students want-ing to go into the medical field to witness all aspects behind it; life through death,” said Jessica Shipps, 12.

Shadowing a doctor allows stu-

dents to see check-ups and daily events at a hospital. Before being allowed to shadow at a hospital, you must get Tuberculosis and Blook-Born Pathogen tests and undergo a criminal background check.

“I think shadowing is a great opportunity for students,” said Mikeyla Wilson, 12. “You get to learn about various aspects of health careers while getting hands-on experience”

Students that shadow other health professionals get to witness events such as teeth being pulled and cats being neutered.

“It is a great opportunity for students to see what really goes on behind the scene of medicine. It’s not always like [it is on] TV,” said Michael Pelton, health science teacher and sports trainer.

Other great opportunities that students should take advantage of are internships and apprentice-ships. According to Growing Leaders, “internships and appren-ticeships provide learning envi-ronments for writing, creating, marketing, administration, travel to events, research and interacting with partner schools and organiza-tions.”

To find more information on available internships, visit www.GrowingLeaders.com/internship.

There is also a possibility of Youth Entrepreneurs of Kansas sponsoring internships. For de-tails, visit https://yeks.org/student-resources/protected/internships.cfm.

For additional profiles, visit us online at

www.dchsdodger.com!

Job shadowing, internships, apprenticeships let students get “hands-on” experience in their fields of choice


-Natalie CabelloChocolate or vanilla ice cream?

Pancakes or waffles? Choices, choices. When it comes to college choices, the decisions get more complicated. You must decide what type of college is best for you, which, more often than not, is a challenge. Two types of colleges are technical colleges, also known as trade schools, and traditional colleges. How do you decide which is best?

Tara Salmans, counselor, advises researching colleges.

“There are many resources online that you can use to find this information,” said Salmans. “I would start with the Kansas Career

Pipeline.”According to www.gocollege.

com, vocational schools differ from traditional four-year colleges in several ways.

First, vocational or trade schools offer programs for specific job skills. That means there are no general education classes, only classes specific to your future job. Because of this, you will spend less time in the classroom and get to work sooner.

Second, the types of jobs you can get with a technical degree are different from the jobs you can get with a college degree. Usually, the jobs you can get with a technical degree are more limited in scope

than the jobs you can get with a college degree. For example, while you may get a job in computer-aided drafting and design with a technical degree, you can’t get a job as an architect.

However, some trade schools offer degree-transfer programs that allow students to pursue a college degree after finishing trade school. Still, other trade schools are combined community colleges and trade schools, like Dodge City Community College (its full name is “Dodge City Community College and Area Technical Center”). This allows students more options for their post-secondary education—they can get

a technical degree or an associate’s degree, or both, or they can start their four-year college education at the community college level and then transfer to a university.

As you can see, trade schools can come in many forms and can be made to suit your individual needs and wants, depending on what school you choose.

Now that you’ve chosen to go to a trade school, how do you know which one is best for you? There are several things you need to consider before making your choice.

For tips on how to chooose, visit www.gocollege.com or www.dchsdodger.com.

Choosing a post-secondary education: Is a trade school or college right for you?

-Deena ShaathDodge City Community

College offers a variety of classes. Many students decide to stay in Dodge City for two years to complete their general education classes, and then continue their education at a Kansas public university.

Students do this for many reasons, but the main reason is to save money. Going to school at DCCC for two years to complete general classes saves a lot of money.

“I want to go to Dodge City Community College for one year to get all of my required classes out of the way, and then I am going to transfer to [the University of Kansas],” said Tanner Miller, 12. “I think it is moronic to go to a four-year university to take a class that you can get here for next to nothing.”

In this way, students can complete all of the necessary courses and then transfer to another university.

“I want to be a nurse, and I heard the nursing program here is pretty

good,” said Jordan Koehn, 11, who plans on attending DCCC. “I also want to be closer to my family for awhile since I’ll be such a young freshman.”

In order to be considered a junior after completing two years at DCCC, you must also obtain a certain number of credits; a minimum of 45 credits is required. The required credits are 12 hours of Basic Skills, which includes six hours of English Composition, three hours of Public Speaking or Speech Communication, and three hours of college level Mathematics. You also need 12 hours of Humanities courses, 12 hours of Social and Behavioral Sciences courses, and nine hours of Natural and Physical Science courses.

“I want to go to the community college because I think it’ll help prepare me for a four-year university better than going to a university straight out of high school,” said Cesar Calvillo, 12.

To find out more information on DCCC transfers, go to www.dc3.edu/academics.html.

Transfers: Taking classes at DCCC can save students money

Kelly S. Henrichs, D.D.S.

100 Ross Blvd., #2CDodge City, KS 67801

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-Leann ManriquezWhile growing up. you often

dream of what you’re going to be when you grow up, how you’re going to look and what college you’ll attend after graduation. One DCHS alumni who is now living those dreams is Dr. Jordan Gwaltney, optometrist, who went through it all, from college visits to graduation and is now a successful optometrist at iDocs in Dodge City.

Gwaltney’s childhood dream job wasn’t to be an astronaut or singer; it was to become a teacher.

“I actually dreamed of being a teacher. Why, I’m not sure. I just knew that I liked kids and wanted to help people,” said Gwaltney. “So when you really look at it, I still get to the chance to be a teacher, at times educating my patients about how to care for their eyes, and I get to be with kids too, since they need their eyes checked, too.”

One of the benefits of her job is “having the high school kids come in to shadow and learn about optometry... It is fun for me to get to show them things and hopefully get them excited about the health field.”

Gwaltney majored in human biology from the University of Kansas and became a Doctor of Optometry at the University of Missouri, St. Louis College of Optometry. One of the ways Gwaltney narrowed down her choice of colleges was to actually visit the campus.

“I applied to my favorites and then I visited each campus so that I could take a tour and see where I felt the most comfortable,” said Gwaltney.

The parent also undergoes a life-changing experience when their child goes off to college.

“My mom came with me to each one. This was a really important step for both of us,” said Gwaltney. “It made a huge difference in my choice of where to attend college!”

When Gwaltney left for college, her mother, Glory Spikes, states that it was “bittersweet.”

“She was on to make her way in the world, which was my wish, but

I would be so homesick for her,” said Spikes.

Once she was accepted to a college, there would be no going back, but she was left with many

questions.“I was nervous, moving away

from home, all new friends,” said Gwaltney. “Would I be able to complete these more difficult classes with much higher standards? I had a lot of questions.”

The first day of college is like the first day at kindergarten. You don’t know anybody, and it takes time to adjust.

“It seems like it was a very busy day. Hard to remember back that long,” said Gwaltney. “I only had a couple of classes that day, but it took me some time to get into the groove of riding the bus and what stop to get off and other shortcuts!”

One of the things Gwaltney suggests doing is finding your classroom before the first day, that way you’re not wandering around on campus. College is filled with a variety of people from different cultures and backgrounds, which is what makes the college experience even more rewarding. Not only are the students diverse and interesting, but also the teachers.

As an undergraduate, one of Gwaltney’s most interesting teachers was “Dr. Harry Schafer, anthropology teacher.”

“He was a great teacher who previously had had throat cancer, so he was a little difficult to understand at times,” said

Gwaltney. “[He] made sure everyone was able to learn. He was also a world renowned bridge player and had won many titles.”

While at optometry school, one

of Gwaltney’s most entertaining teachers was “Dr. Vengu, optics teacher.

“This was one of my favorite classes, so it may be why I liked

him so much,” said Gwaltney. “[He] had a very interesting personality, a great sense of humor and was also on the interviewing board when I was accepted to the university. He asked the hardest questions by far.”

To graduate and be able to hold that diploma and say with pride that “Doctor can now be added to your name” is an accomplishment that not many achieve.

“I have made a commitment for my profession to be a life-long learner, to benefit my patients. I hope to continue to grow my practice and do my best to take excellent care of my patients,” said Gwaltney with conviction. “I have also been blessed with a wonderful immediate and extended family and two precious little girls who keep me busy, too.”

Through dedication and hard work, Jordan Gwaltney has achieved her “American Dream.”

At Work. Dr. Jordan Gwaltney poses for a picture in her office at iDocs in Dodge City. • Courtesy Photo

DCHS graduate achieves her “American Dream”“I have made a commitment for my profession to be a life-long learner”

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-Alysia GarvalenaMoving into a dorm can be a

tedious process. This is the place you could be living for the next year, so you will need to bring a lot of stuff.

A checklist is always helpful in keeping track of everything that you will need to bring. Almost every student living in dorms has a personal checklist of things to bring, which varies from person to person.

“[Some things to bring are] curtains for the window and to cover the closet, stamps, rain boots, extra storage bins and plastic drawers, an ID holder that goes on a key chain and a rug for the room!” said Codi Ehrlich, DCHS graduate and current freshman at the University of Kansas in Lawrence.

Being prepared when moving into the dorms is one of the most important steps for dorm life.

Most colleges have a list of certain things you cannot have in the dorms, such as candles, coffee

pots and things of that nature. Many colleges have lists in their pamphlets or online. If neither of these works, you can call the college.

If you are going to be living in a dorm where you share a bathroom with all the dorm mates on your floor, you may not need bathroom cleaning supplies because a janitor will clean it. However, if you have a suite-style bathroom, when you share a bathroom with the other roommates in your suite, then you might have to clean your own bathroom.

*Note: Check with your roommate to make sure you don’t double up on things such as having two similar gaming consoles or two televisions.

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Issu

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-Leann ManriquezChristine Cammack Kerbs

graduated in 1999 from Dodge City High School with a University of Kansas acceptance letter in her hand. Years later, after receiving her bachelor’s degree of science, majoring in Secondary Education with an emphasis on English from Kansas State University and later her Master of Arts in School Leadership from Baker University, Kerbs is now a successful English teacher at Maize High School.

Kerbs won the Wal-Mart teacher of the year award in 2003 and the Kansas High School Activities association Award for Excellence for exemplary display of sportsmanship, ethics and integrity in 2010.

“I decided to be a teacher, because I have always wanted to be a mother, and I knew that with teaching as a career, I could do both. My mother is a teacher and I admired her as both a teacher and mother. I wanted to do both as well,” said Kerbs. “I have two kids of my own, but actually, after teaching for seven years, I have hundreds of kids I would consider my own. I love my students and hope to send them off to college prepared and anxious for that chapter in their lives.”

Teaching, however, was not Kerbs’ plan when she entered college.

“To me. it’s exciting that she’s a teacher because we can have conversations about education and can help each other,” said Cindy Cammack, Instructional Coach at DCHS and Kerbs’ mother.

“I originally hoped to study nursing, but was pretty much undecided. After Biology 101, I decided that nursing and science wasn’t for me,” said Kerbs.

On the day of her high school graduation, Kerbs was excited, like most seniors. The thought and worries of college were far from her mind; instead, the present was her main focus.

On the day Kerbs left for college, she remembers, “caravanning up to Lawrence with my mom and some friends. “

“A couple of friends took the Manhattan exit and my roommate and I headed on to Lawrence,” said Kerbs. “When you live in Dodge City, most of the places you attend college will allow you some good think time while on the road.”

Kerbs advises new freshman not to be fake”

“You should meet new people

and not feel pressured to like someone you have nothing in common with, because you’ll eventually meet personalities that complement your own,” said Kerbs. “Don’t be fooled into thinking that college is anything like high school. For one, no one but you will monitor to see if you’re doing and understanding the work. One of the key elements to success is self-motivation and hard work. If you don’t do that, then not only are you wasting time, but money [as well].”

Working hard has never been a problem for Kerbs.

“I remember Cristy as being real sincere,” said Patrick Lopez, math teacher at DCHS. “Her math wasn’t as good as she wanted it to be, but she worked real hard.”

Her hard worked paid off freshman year when she discovered her class was almost cut in half.

“Everyone on my dorm floor freshman year, other than my roommate and I, ended up either flunking out or landing themselves on academic probation,” said Kerbs. “You must keep your priorities in line. There is always

going to be something more fun going on, but you have to put school first. Think of it as your job.”

Not only is freshman year the time to kick it into gear, but also a time to let go, something Kerbs learned the hard way.

“I had a tough time my freshman year at KU. I honestly kept myself wrapped up in my old boyfriend

and friends from home. I didn’t give it a good shot,” said Kerbs. “Luckily, I got pretty good grades. Spring semester of freshman year, I decided to finish out the full year at KU, but begin my sophomore year at Kansas State University. For me, that was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I didn’t tell my parents. I worked with a guidance counselor at KU and she helped me with the paperwork. I fit in better at K-State, and from the ge-go I worked to get involved and meet new people.”

Meeting new people is a trait she carried from high school to college.

“She was very enthusiastic and very involved with Student council,” said Jim Mapel, who was Stuco sponsor when Kerbs attended DCHS.

Kerbs joined the Kansas State Water Ski team and met some of her best friends. She also rekindled her love of dance by joining ballet.

“I had always loved to dance, but didn’t realize that colleges offer classes in all areas. So if you have a talent you love, look for a class to match,” said Kerbs. “I

wouldn’t recommend majoring in something you have as a hobby, but it certainly gives you a break from studying statistics!”

College life can be great if you keep a good balance of study and fun, especially during finals week where the stress can get to be too much. Things slow down during that week, and you’ll probably find yourself spending a lot of time studying for those big tests.

One of Kerbs’ favorite memories was taking a final for British Literature.

“It was a long essay test. The windows were open in the classroom and people were beginning to finish up on the test,” said Kerbs. “As I was sitting there completing the last essay, our class hears a student yell from outside, ‘Yes! No more British Lit ever again!’ The teacher’s expression was priceless.”

After all her finals and years of studying were over. another graduation was needed to complete her journey. When Kerbs graduated in December, not even a snow storm could deter Kerbs’ family from being there, making the event all the more precious to her.

“I don’t have regrets, because everything is a learning experience that makes you who you are. My biggest advice is: don’t be in a hurry to grow up. Make good choices; having children and a full-time job can wait. You will be a better employee and a better mother if you give yourself some time to grow and mature,” said Kerbs. “When you’re a high school senior, you might think that you know how it feels to be an adult, but you’ll grow up a lot more once you’re fending for yourself. Have fun, meet new people and experience many new things, but remember to stick to your core values, beliefs and morals and let them guide your decisions. It may sound cliché, but it is truly the journey and not the destination.”

For one DCHS graduate, life is “about the journey, not the destination”

Family Time. Christine Cammack Kerbs with her two children • Photo Courtesy


Doctor and DCHS graduate lends advice to students-Deena Shaath

Dr. Sarah (Robb) Nelson, 1993 DCHS graduate, is a successful pediatrician living in Lawrence, Kan., with her husband and two daughters.

She attended Washburn University for four years and completed a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in English and Psychology. After that, she went to college for another four years and completed a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. Then, Nelson went to medical school at the University of Kansas for four years.

DCHS wasn’t much different in the 1990s as it is today, according to Nelson.

“Overall, my high school days were pretty good. I spent a lot of time working on the newspaper and band. I had some great friends. I probably wasted too much time and gas driving up and down Earp!” said Nelson. “I

think I received a good education that allowed me to be successful at college, especially classes in history (Mr. Mapel), government

(Ms. Feist) and journalism (Mrs. Moore)! I also had a blast as Mr. Mapel’s teacher’s aid.”

Nelson advises high school students to take community college classes during high school because it is nice to get some of the required classes out of the way. Nelson said she wishes that she would have known what she was meant to do

with her life early on because it took her a while to figure it out.

“I drove my parents crazy in college, constantly changing my

major!” said Nelson.There are a few other things

she wishes she would have done differently while in school.

“I guess I probably should have listened to my parents more, as most students [should]! As a sign of rebellion, I skipped out on my senior prom; it would have been nice to go to that. I had way too

much social time my first semester of college, which hurt my GPA, but I survived,” said Nelson. “There’s always going to be some regrets in life; that’s what helps shape you into the person you will become.”

The best advice she has for students applying to college is to look at schools that give the most money, which is how she picked Washburn. Washburn gave her the most scholarships and financial aid out of all the other schools. Doing this will also minimize the amount of loans you have to pay back. She also recommends that students pay attention to the type and size of the school, because people respond differently to those two environments.

“Don’t go crazy at college! It’s okay to have fun, but you still need to study and go to class! I learned that the hard way,” said Nelson. “Do your best and have fun! Enjoy being a teenager for as long as possible, and make smart choices.”

Family. Nelson and her daughter, Emma, enjoy a moment with Nelson’s mother, Maryalys Robb, teacher at DCHS. • Photo Courtesy

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www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER22 “Destination: Life” | MILITARYSERVICE

-Josie ZordelCollege or the military, what

would you choose? Some choose college because they know what they would like to be, and others choose the military because that’s where they know they should be.

“I want to join the Marines. The Marines are the toughest, most courageous and daring people in the military,” said Spencer Barry, 11. “It takes a lot of knowledge. I want to be a leader, a fighter for my country.”

Barry has always known that he wanted to be in the Marines. Barry is making his personal dream come true by joining the military.

“I’ve always watched the commercials. My parents, teachers, and many other adults have told me to follow my dreams,” said Barry. “I’ve looked up to the military all my life. I’ve always wanted to join. College is important, but I’d rather be fighting for my country.”

The possiblity of losing

everything sounds scary to some, but for others like Barry, are okay with the fact that one day they might wake up and everything will be taken from them.

“I don’t really have any fears. Dying is scary, but if it’s for a good reason, I’m okay with it,” said Barry.

It takes a lot of courage, bravery and strength to make it past boot camp.

“Only the strong survive,” said

Barry. “The military requires a lot of characteristics - courage, bravery, leadership, the ability to listen and many more. It depends on the unit and squad.”

Making it into the Marines is the hard part. Their boot camp is designed to test your body every way possible; mentally, physically and emotionally. Boot camp is three months long. Recruits are away from their families for three months. The body is forced to be

stronger and the mind goes through changes of its own. Every day at boot camp, recruits are forced to push through obstacles that are the preparation for becoming a full-fledged Marine. Being in shape makes boot camp easier.

“I run cross country to keep in shape. I run all year round. P90x is a great way to keep fit, and I eat as healthily as I can,” said Barry.

Another important aspect when considering joining the military is support from your friends and family and those around you. Without their support, it can make the journey harder. Knowing that you have a support group can give you more confidence.

“My family members like that I want to join, but others don’t. My girlfriend, Kimber Smith, hates it,” said Barry.

College is not for everyone, but neither is the military.

“The Marines is my place to be,” said Barry.

“I want to be a leader, a fighter for my country”

Hard Work. Spencer Barry, 11, studies in school. • Photo Courtesy

• MILITARYSERVICE •How to prepare & join, who wants to go, and who’s been there and back

-Meet with a recruiter -Ask as many questions as possible-Get everything in writing-Decide if you’re really ready -Get good grades in high school -Practice testing skills-Know your congressmen-Know your country’s history-Stay organized -Attend all your classes-Be ready for boot camp -Be in shape -Be ready to wake up at 3 a.m. -Be ready to work the whole day -Listen and pay attention

-Act with confidence in everything you do-Don’t show signs of frustration -Be a leader-Know how to give and take commands-Know that there will always be someone telling you what to do, how to do it, when to do it and how you’ve got to do it-Choose the best path for yourself-Be brave-Be open-minded-Be decisive -Learn from your mistakes

-Know your full potential -Attend summer programs-Talk to your local recruiters -Talk to family members who have been in the military-Be ready to be away from home-Know what branch you would like to go into-Pick the right job for yourself-Stay focused -Get through boot camp-Don’t ask why things are done, just do it-Understand that you don’t make the rules

-Be quiet and listen-Make the necessary preparations to get in-Make the most of it

-List adapted for print by Josie Zordel.

For more information, visit:http://www.wikihow.com/Make-It-Through-Military-Boot-Camp

Checklist: What does it take to join the military? How to prepare?

MILITARYSERVICE | “Destination: Life” Issue #2THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 23

-Josie Zordel Can you imagine being drafted

into the military as a 20-year-old? In 1968, men were drafted as the war in Vietnam heated up. This conflict began for the United States in the early 1960s and ended in 1975, lasting seven years.

Soldiers in war zones were more isolated than they are today. Modern communication systems have made communicating with families and friends much easier than it was in the ‘60s.

“My biggest fear about being in the military was not knowing if I would be coming home,” said Gary Bartlett.

“I was drafted into the Army when I was 20,” said Bartlett.

Today’s soldiers are no longer drafted. However, in the 60’s, the United States needed to draft young men to serve their country.

“Serving my country was exciting,” said Bartlett.

Can you imagine having a life plan and then everything changing in the blink of an eye because of war? This was commonplace at the time. They had their lives planned, and then those plans changed.

“I wanted to be in the Air Force,” said Bartlett.

Leaving home to do something that you never thought you would have to do is rarely on someone’s to-do list. For Bartlett, it quickly became the number one item on his to-do list. Surviving and returning home was another item

of importance on his to-do list. However, in every situation, no

matter how horrible it is, there is always some benefit or something you liked about the situation.

Bartlett, too, benefited through gaining “maturity and a better sense of what freedom and its price are all about.”

“The best part of the military to me was all the excitement,” said Bartlett.

War is scary and Bartlett considers the uncertainty of every day as one of the worst aspects of the war.

“The scariest part of being in war was never knowing what tomorrow might bring,” said Bartlett.

War is always a life-changing event for those serving in the military and for their family and friends. For Bartlett, life changed completely.

“I returned in a wheelchair and every day life became a challenge,” said Bartlett.

While in battle, Bartlett stepped on a land mine and lost both of his legs, as well as some fingers, but that didn’t stop him from living life.

Sometimes we take the things we have for granted, such as our freedom. We have soldiers like Bartlett to look up to and thank for our freedom.

Senior. Gary Bartlett as a senior. • Pho-to Courtesy

In Uniform. Bartlett displays his military uniform. • Photo Courtesy

War changes everything…“The scariest part of being in war was never knowing what tomorrow might bring”

•www.weblinks•How to Prepare for a Job Interview• http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interviewquestionsanswers/a/interview quest.htm• http://mahalo.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-job-interview• http://www.suite101.com/content/how-to-prepare-for-a-job-interview- a259422

How to Go Solo • http://www.business.gov/start/start-a-business.html• http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/JobClub/story?id=6574472&page=2

Tips for teen entrepreneurs• http://www.helium.com/items/856667-tips-for-teens-on-starting-your- own-business

How to prepare for military training• http://www.ehow.com/how2057374prepare-army-basic-training.html• http://www.wikihow.com/Make-It-Through-Military-Boot-Camp

Enlisting in the military• http://www.suite101.com/content/enlisting-in-the-military--meeting- with-the-recruiter-a290727

Trade Schools• http://www.ehow.com/how2154771prepare-career-attending-trade- school.html

Scholarship Search Engines• http://www.fastweb.com/• http://www.scholarships.com/• http://apps.collegeboard.com/cbsearchss/welcome.jsp• http://www.collegescholarships.org/search/• http://www.collegeprowler.com

-LInks compiled by Leann Manriquez.*See other links throughout the issue.

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www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER24 “Destination: Life” | WORKFORCE&ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Hairport Salon

214 E. Frontview • Dodge City, KS 67801620-225-0148

Erin Bergkamp, OwnerStylists - Karen Harper-Halling, Erica Jewell,

Lisa Hall, Jodi Guthrie, Melinda Andazola

-Natalie CabelloYou can’t set up a business

successfully without preparing yourself. That is what Linda Burkhart would say to students.

Burkhart owns Hair Attractions (located at 1704 N. 14th Ave. in Dodge City) along with Donnis Stevens, her current business partner.

After graduating from Dodge City High School, she received her associate’s degree from Dodge City Community College (DCCC). She also received her cosmetology license from there. She then worked at a salon here in Dodge City for ten years and substituted at DCCC. During that time, she was also part of the DCCC alumni association and was president of the college foundation for five years, where she helped students get scholarships.

In 1988, she decided to open her own salon with her then business partner Evelyn Rogers,

who was bought out by Donnis Stevens. The salon hasn’t always been at its current location, however. She bought Charlie’s Convenience Store to open her business, but when Walgreens’ bought the building, she moved to her current location and has been there ever since.

Just like her business, Burkhart thinks education is not static.

“Education is a continuing thing throughout your life, so never stop learning,” she said.

She also encourages students not only to “go after your dreams,” but also to think about what educational plans they have for after high school.

“Think through what you want to do [after high school],” she said. “Higher ed doesn’t have to be a degree only. It can also be a [vocational] trade, or both. I did both—I got my degree and a trade.”

To succeed in school, she advises having good study

habits and advance planning and preparing.

“I had decent study habits while I was in school, but I think that I could have had better study habits,” she laughed. “[Planning is important]. I think students today live for the present, not the future. Many times [when we’re young], we think we’re invincible, that we’re going to live forever. If you want to have the nice things in life and be what you want to be, then you’ve got to prepare yourself.”

She then cautioned that the preparing part isn’t always easy, and that there will be some elbow grease involved, probably way more than we expect or want. As an entrepreneur, she knows that all too well.

“Dream high, but do what it takes to get there, because life is not given to you,” she advised. “It takes hard work. You don’t make six figures coming out of college—

it’ll be a long time before you do.”Burkhart also has advice for

those students who are reluctant to pursue higher education, or those who don’t have a major or field in mind.

“At least find a trade or an interest, because, again, life takes hard work. I feel sorry for those who don’t [pursue a trade or profession],” said Burkhart.

Those are hard, but true, words. We’ve got to find something that will earn us a good living, right? Burkhart went on to give a warning of what will happen when you go out to get a full-time job right after high school.

“The harshest words to hear when you apply for a job are, ‘You are not qualified,’ when you made the choice not to go to school,” she warned. “Then you will have to live with the consequences of your choices. Of course, you can always go back and finish your schooling, but it will (obviously) be harder.”

Entrepreneur advises students about life after high school“Education is a continuing thing... never stop learning”

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WORKFORCE&ENTREPRENEURSHIP | “Destination: Life” Issue #2THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 25

-Alysia GarvalenaSandra Garvalena was a normal

high school student who liked to go out, have fun and hang out with her friends. Her grades weren’t exactly all A’s and B’s, but Garvalena was still good at math and English.

“Yes we do need English and math. They are required every day in life,” said Garvalena.

She still graduated a semester early from Dodge City High School with her class of 1996 with no problems. Just like every other high school student, she had dreams and goals for after graduation. Her only problem was her parents couldn’t afford to send her to college and her grades didn’t qualify her for a scholarship.

“I wanted to go to college for Criminal Justice or I wanted to be a cop,” said Garvalena.

While in high school, she kept a steady job flipping hamburgers at the local McDonald’s. After graduating high school, Garvalena decided she would try something different. Stage was her next place of employment. After that, she moved on to a receptionist job at the Econo Lodge and moved on to Dillons. While working at Dillons, she had her first child, Brock.

After working at Dillons for three years, she began working at Miller Elementary as a para. Seven months later, Garvalena decided that working at an elementary school wasn’t a good fit for her.

The next step in her life was working at one of the local meat-packing plants, Excel. She worked there for a steady eight years.

“I was the safety person [for three of the eight years] for the whole [fabrication] floor,” said Garvalena. “And yes, I would work at Excel again. I actually liked it there. I had a really good job.”

While at Excel, she had her second child, Chloe.

In 2007, the Dillons bakery asked Garvalena to help out in the bakery.

“I went back because they needed a cake decorator during

graduation,” said Garvalena. “Since they knew I had the experience, they asked and I said ‘yes’.”

While she was working part-time at the bakery, a bakery management job opened up.

“I applied and got it because I knew how to do everything from my previous experience there,” said Garvalena. “I plan [to move] up within the company. That’s my goal! I’ve already had an opportunity to train for the MD1 program [a store management-in-training program] through Dillons. But I didn’t do it because I want to

be there for Chloe since she just started school, but I’m sure there will be another opportunity for me soon.”

Now Garvalena plans to go to go back to college and maybe even one day open up her own business.

“I want to apply for a single mother’s grant that the government offers,” said Garvalena. “As lame as it may sound, I love my job.”

Garvalena tries to set a good example for her children and wants them to succeed.

“I want to be a cake maker like my mom,” said her daughter, Chloe. “I’m very proud of her.”

DCHS graduate plans to continue her education, excel in job“I plan [to move] up within the company... I love my job.”

Creating cakes. Sandra Garvalena, 1996 graduate of DCHS, currently works at Dillons in Dodge City, Kan., where she hopes to move up within the company. • Photo Alysia Garvalena

-Deena ShaathHaving a job teaches discipline

and responsibility. Some teenagers get jobs for money, some for fun, and some for experience that they might need later in life.

“I want a job so I can have more independence and prepare myself for my future,” said Jamie Groth, 11.

The one thing that most teenag-ers want is a fun job where they can be with their friends, interact with others and have a good time.

“I like my job because it gives me a sense of independence and re-sponsibility,” said Alex Garcia, 11.

Many places in Dodge City accept applications from teenag-ers. One new business to have positions available for hire is Papa John’s Pizza. All positions

are available, including delivery driver.

A very common action for stu-dents is to get a job directly out of high school. Some decide to join the workforce because they are ei-ther not planning to go to college

or want to earn money to go to one.The best way to be successful is

to prepare yourself for a job inter-view: Dress to impress. Wearing nice clothes makes you look pro-

fessional and shows that you are serious about the job. Also, think logically about the types of ques-tions that will be asked during the interview. Practice for the inter-view and have answers ready to avoid hesitation. Something else

to keep in mind is this: don’t be modest. The interviewer wants to know about all of your accomplish-ments, so don’t be afraid to show off.

Some students think it’s impor-tant to have a job early on, but oth-ers think it’s not. Although there are different views on it, everyone in the long run is going to need to have a job and being prepared for it is the best way to get one.

“I think it’s important to have a job because it can keep you out of trouble and gives you a little extra cash in your pocket,” said Benito Sotelo, 12.

Being prepared:The best way to get a job

Issu

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Luke Bunker: Of the various assign-ments/stories you have worked on, which has been your favorite? Least favorite? Why?Oscar Avila: My favorite assignment probably was a trip I took to the Dominican Republic 10 years ago for the Kansas City Star to write about how the Royals find base-ball prospects in that country. Two weeks of driving around, talking to young baseball players about their dreams. My least favorite probably is any time I have to talk to a griev-ing family member about a loved one who has just died. It is a neces-sary part of the job but not one that any journalist enjoys.

Having worked as a reporter in Mis-souri and at the Kansas City Star, as well as the Tribune, which has been your favorite post?I loved being a correspondent in Mexico City for the Tribune. I think it’s a fascinating and impor-tant country for Americans, and I enjoyed trying to give our readers a window into what makes it tick. I can think of several times where I’d be riding down some secluded highway to talk to a fascinating subject where I’d think, “They’re paying me for this?”

What/who inspired you to become a journalist?I loved to write as a grade-school student but it was my time working at the Dodger that really gave [me] a sense that journalism was some-thing worth pursuing.

On a whim, I signed up for the Newspaper elective class my sophomore year. Right away, our adviser and teacher, Mrs. Phyllis Wipf, gave us a chance to “learn by doing.” I took journalism courses for the rest of my time there. They taught us the basic nuts and bolts of the craft. Of course, our English

courses also indirectly helped me as a journalist. By reading the way others use and choose their words, it expands your approach to the written word.

What advice do you have for stu-dents who are thinking about going into journalism?A few. Learn to master technology. Learn a foreign language. It will help you reach and communicate with even more people. It’s impor-tant to get basic education in this but it’s also important to have ex-pertise in other topics.

You have a degree in international relations from George Washington University. Why did you want to pur-sue this degree?I wasn’t sure I was going into jour-nalism for sure, but I was always into politics, history, etc. I thought it would be especially interesting to study international affairs in Washington, D.C. These studies ended up being great training for my work as a journalist.

What aspects do you like, dislike about your career choice?The best thing about journalism is that you have an open invitation to meet interesting people and visit places you normally wouldn’t. The worst thing is that the lifestyle is very unpredictable. You could have plans with your family and all of a sudden your boss calls you and wants you to drive five hours to cover a story.

How did you get to your current post as Mexico Correspondent at the Chi-cago Tribune?I’m actually back in Chicago now with the Tribune. As to how I got to be a Mexico correspondent, I had been writing about Mexican immi-gration and other international is-sues in Chicago before then. When the job became open in Mexico, the paper was looking for someone with some familiarity with these global issues and who spoke Span-ish. A lot of it was being in the right place at the right time.

What has been your greatest challenge(s) as a student? Career

journalist? On the flip-side, what do you consider to be your greatest achievement(s) as each?My greatest challenge as a student was making a final decision on a career. It is a little intimidating be-cause you think you are making a permanent choice. I know now that many people change careers many times over their lives. As a journal-ist, the greatest challenge has been staying balanced and centered. It is a stressful job at times and it can become all-consuming.

My greatest achievement as a journalist? I am proud that I won an International Reporting Project fel-lowship a few years ago that let me conduct research and write stories from South America. I think that opened the door to me eventually becoming a foreign correspondent.

Do you feel that your upbringing in rural, Midwest America has influ-enced who you are today as a jour-nalist? If so, how?Absolutely. Nearly all media is centered in Washington, New York and Los Angeles, making it easy to forget that there is a whole world outside of those places. I think growing up in Dodge City gives me a permanent reminder that there are real people who live outside of the spotlight whose stories and challenges are important to follow. Also, I think people in Dodge City are very straight-forward. They’ll tell you exactly what they think. I think that’s a good quality to have as a journalist as well. Some of my favorite reporting assignments were in rural Kansas and Missouri, working with the Kansas City Star.

What/who has helped you on your journey to become a journalist?No. 1 on that list would have to be my former journalism adviser and teacher at DCHS, Mrs. Phyl-lis Wipf. She was always encour-aging and supportive but made it quite clear that she was placing responsibility on my shoulders. That meant meeting deadlines, be-ing organized and making sure our finished product was of high qual-ity. At the same time, she gave us room to make mistakes and learn on our own. After three years at

the Dodger, I was able to go into college with the confidence that I could hold my own as a journalist there. One more I would mention is Dave McQueen, my former edi-tor when I worked part-time at the Dodge City Daily Globe. He took a chance on a high school student and gave me the chance at my first professional byline.

Do you feel that journalism educa-tion is an important part of high school education? Why?I know that journalism sometimes is lumped into the non-essential category when it comes to decid-ing whether to cut or preserve pro-grams. But I think there are few priorities more important to our country than making sure we have an educated, fair and responsible media that can inform us and look out for our interests. Most of my colleagues in the business started in high school with a supportive teacher and an active journalism program. I am disappointed to hear that journalism education in Kan-sas might be in jeopardy because I think the long-term impact on society in general would be very harmful.

What projects/assignments are you currently working on?I am currently covering politics for the Tribune. I was heavily involved in covering the recent heated U.S. Senate race in which a Republican candidate just won the seat once held by President Obama.

What are your hopes and goals for the future?The great thing about journalism is that there are always new chal-lenges and things to learn. I hope to continue to find stories that ex-cite me and, in turn, will hopefully interest our readers. Journalism is a great field, and one that’s chang-ing every day. No matter what your form of artistic expression: writ-ing, photography, drawing, design, computer animation, performing, there is a way to employ those tal-ents in journalism. We need more good people in the business!

DCHS graduate now writes for the Chicago Tribune

ScholasticJournalism@RISK | “Destination: Life” Issue #2THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 27

ScholasticJournalism@RISKResponses to KSDE’s decision to cut funding from high school journalism courses by 2012

• SPECIAL OPINION SECTION •

Editors’ Note: The following is a special editorial to the Dodger by Chad Cross, News Director at KWCH in Wichita, Kan. Thanks to Cindy Klose for helping arrange the connection and thanks to Mr. Cross for taking a stance and writ-ing about this issue.

You’ve seen that poster titled, “All I need to know I learned in Kindergarten.” It lists things like, “don’t hit people” and “wash your hands before you eat.” Yes, those basics help you graduate to first grade, but to be successful later in life, you need to learn much more than how to flush. You have to learn specific skills to become an expert at something, and it’s best to get started early.

Personally, my poster would say, “All I need to know I learned in journalism class.” Many of the skills I use on a daily basis go back to my freshman year, when I start-ed writing for our school newspa-per. My teacher would hound us to use proper grammar and check our spelling. Over and over, we’d hear the rules of prose and punc-tuation. Like any kid, I asked my-

self, “When am I ever going to use this?”

Fast-forward a few years. Now, I get paid to know the period goes inside the quotation mark. I’m the News Director at KWCH in Wich-ita. I credit my journalism classes for helping start my career in TV

news. Back then, I was learning the building blocks of writing and reporting, photography and graph-ic design. Since then, I’ve learned the important role of journalism in a democracy: seeking the truth, holding the powerful accountable and giving voice to the voiceless. Journalism also keeps me and thousands of other people gainfully employed.

A lot has changed since my high school days. In 2010, more journalists are posting blogs than publishing stories in newspapers. The typewriter is out; the iPad is in. (If you don’t know what a typewriter is, Google it.) Changes are coming for Kansas schools, too. Some worry they’ll have to cut journalism programs because of new state requirements. Ac-cording to the Kansas Department of Education, the goal is to “revise curriculum so it reflects current and future needs of students head-ing to college or the job market.” Schools will get funding for classes that integrate journalism with digi-tal media, information technology and web-based communication.

From my point of view, it is

crucial schools continually look at the skills students need in the “real world,” including the world of journalism. Internet and digi-tal media skills are required to get almost any kind of journalism job today. I know, because I’m the one who hires for those jobs. That’s why I believe some of the chang-es mandated by the state may be needed. However, they shouldn’t come at the cost of programs and teachers who give kids the funda-mental skills and hands-on experi-ence I was given in high school. Students who aspire to work in my field must still learn those old-school rules of prose and punctua-tion. The principles of journalism will always be valid; no matter how technology changes the way we do our jobs.

I hope Kansas schools can find a way to continue teaching the fundamentals of journalism, while keeping students on the cutting-edge of technology. That key com-bination will prepare them to be smart, qualified journalists of the 21st century.

Chad CrossKWCH News Director

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“All I need to know I learned in journalism class.”

-Erin FinleyEver since I was a little child, I

have enjoyed the news. I enjoyed watching the news, listening to the news, and writing about the news. At an early age, I began writing weekly newsletters for my fam-ily about daily happenings around the house. Eventually, I took over writing the Christmas newsletter. As I got older, I contemplated mak-ing a career out of news.

I enrolled in a journalism course as soon as I started high school. It fascinated me, and I soon realized that news is all around us. People always want news, and they want it fast. People have been curious about their surroundings since the beginning of time. It used to be news about their neighbors, and now it has evolved to news around the world. Humanity has, and will

always have, a hunger for news, and there will always be someone who has a passion for gathering that news and presenting it to so-ciety.

As news has evolved from word-of-mouth to print, and now to internet, some misinformed people believe that there is no longer a need for journalists in this world. The Kansas Department of Educa-tion may possibly cut funding for journalism in schools in the near future. Those in charge believe that journalism is no longer a high-paying job that is in high demand, and therefore it doesn’t need to be taught and funded in schools. This belief is outrageous. Until people stop caring about what is happen-ing, there will always be a demand for news, and consequently, a de-mand for journalists. There is just

as big of a demand for journalists as football players, singers, musicians and artists. All of these activities/classes teach students different les-sons and help them become more rounded individuals.

Journalism is a very valuable program that teaches students a variety of life lessons. As a mem-ber of the school newspaper staff and as co-editor, I have learned so much that will help me in ev-ery aspect of my life. Journal-ism as a class has taught me how to multitask, be responsible and dependable, and how to interact with people. It has taught me dif-ferent styles of writing and about publishing. I have also learned many things about computers and computer programs. Even if I de-cide to be something other than a journalist, these skills will help me

greatly.If the state stops funding jour-

nalism in high schools, many stu-dents will not get the opportunity to participate in the making of a newspaper. They will miss out on learning about how to be a journal-ist. We need journalism in schools so teenagers will have the skills they need to later get a degree in journalism if they choose to. If the state quits funding journalism, it will be a terrible mistake. I urge you to contact your KSDE repre-sentative and demand that journal-ism stay in schools. Journalism has become a major part of my life; future students should have the chance to make it part of theirs, too.

Editors’ Note: The following is a condensed version of this story. To see the complete version, visit www.dchsdodger.com.

-Luke BunkerAs co-editor of the Dodger,

a person interested in staying in-formed about current events, and someone who cares deeply for and feels passionate about journalism, I am shocked and appalled by the Kansas Department of Education's (KSDE) decision to cut off jour-nalism and yearbook courses from their funding in the near future.

The idea and function of jour-nalism is to inform the public about issues of prominence to the readers. If we allow KSDE (which has already done a hatchet-job for education) to eliminate the ability for students to learn about and gain experience in the journalism field, we are doing ourselves a grave dis-service.

Additionally, without the tools and knowledge necessary to pro-duce stories, publications and the like, students will not have the op-portunity to pursue their dreams of writing, designing, reporting or editing for a publication.

But a passion for working in a

publication can be much more than just a passion.

According to the United States Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, "News analysts, reporters and correspondents held about 69,300 jobs in 2008." These careers may not exist in the next few years if students do not have access to the education they need and deserve to excel in this field.

So, the KSDE still says that journalism doesn't "lead directly to occupations?" Also, what about their slogan of "leadership and support through student learning?" Through their actions, I'm not see-ing that support or appreciation of the leadership skills one gains through taking these courses. Ap-parently, they need not only a les-son in reading and comprehension, but in math as well.

To those that say journalism and the print media are dying, I say, "hogwash." If anything, the rapid change to online and other forms of publication is good for the indus-try, giving publications the oppor-tunity to strengthen their products by evolving them into more easily accessible, interactive and exciting venues. In fact, the Dodger is now available online (www.dchsdodger.

com), the production of which has given all on staff valuable experi-ence.

Through journalism and year-book courses at the high school, I have gained invaluable experience in writing, editing and producing quality publications that are read and seen by many. My journal-ism education at DCHS has trans-formed a curiosity into a passion and has transformed a passion into a want to further my education in this field.

I encourage each of you to think about what would happen if this newspaper you are currently

reading stopped being produced, or if the news programs you watch were no longer broadcast. How would you find out what was going on around you? Simply put - you wouldn't. Not if KSDE goes ahead with their plans to choke off the op-portunity for high school students to gain experience and knowledge in a field that we all use but many times take for granted.

Journalism is in and of itself a public service, and it is unconscio-nable that we would let it die.

Issu

e #2

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER28 “Destination: Life” | ScholasticJournalism@RISK

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Robert Bailey, Owner • [email protected]

319 Maple St. • Dodge City, KS 67801P: 620.225.4869 • F: 620.225.2070

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Special Edition Issue #2 - Nov. 23, 2010 - "Destination: Life"

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