Nebraska Law students, faculty and staff painted a home as part of Lincoln’s annual Paint-A-Thon community outreach project on Aug. 20.
When she learned about the event, Tatiana Eskridge, a first-year law student from Omaha, saw it as the perfect way to give back and mingle with fellow Huskers.
“Since I’m new to the college, I felt this was a good opportunity to connect with faculty, staff and other students — particularly the other newcomers,” Eskridge said. “It is also a tremendous way to make a positive impact in the community by helping a family in need.
“I can’t think of a better way to start the semester.”
For as long as she can recall, Eskridge has had a desire to give back. It’s something she credits to her mother (whom Eskridge recently helped recover from a long illness). And, it is what is driving the former music teacher’s pursuit of a law degree.
“I’ve been working toward this for a long time,” Eskridge said. “My hope is that, in the future, I can use my degree to help develop policy related to school and health law.
“We should want what and work for is best for all kids in our classrooms and for those who are navigating the health care system.”
As she takes her first steps on a new career path, Eskridge is ready to dive in, learning all she can about the legal system and its inner workings.
“This year, I’m excited to build my basic knowledge of the legal system, take advantage of all the opportunities Nebraska Law has to offer, and work toward an internship,” Eskridge said. “I also hope to maintain a B or B-plus grade average because I could always use a few more scholarships.”
— Troy Fedderson | University Communication and Marketing
First-year victor
Craig Chandler | University Communication and Marketing
Drew Carlson, a first-year trumpet player from North Platte, is hoisted into the air after winning the Cornhusker Marching Band's annual drill down in Memorial Stadium on Aug. 19.
In a contest of ultimate focus and precision, a freshman whose chose to keep a clear head and follow others marched away victorious during the Aug. 19 Cornhusker Marching Band exhibition.
“My first thought was, ‘Oh, shoot, how did I pull that off,’” said Drew Carlson, a first-year Emerging Media Arts student from North Platte. “I’ve never participated in one of these competitions before — and we only really practiced it once during band camp.
“I just, I guess, got lucky.”
The competition was the Cornhusker Marching Band’s annual drill down, an event in which participants must precisely follow marching commands shouted by section leaders. Any band member who falters — say pivots left rather than right, or simply fails to stand correctly at attention — is eliminated.
Carlson survived four rounds of eliminations in the competition. His previous best, during that band camp practice earlier in the week, was a single round.
“I went in with a plan to keep my head clear and follow what others around me were doing,” Carlson, a trumpet player, said. “I focused on looking like I knew what I was doing and, hopefully, not making any big mistakes.”
Don’t mention this to the other 299 band members — Carlson is quick to admit that his performance wasn’t close to perfect.
“Oh, I messed up a few times,” Carlson said. “Luckily, it wasn’t enough for the judges to notice.”
In victory, Carlson was rushed by his fellow Cornhuskers and hoisted into the air as some 12,000 fans celebrated in the stands.
“Band camp was tiring but amazing — this has been a tremendous way to start the semester,” Carlson said. “It’s going to be a great year. I can’t wait to get out more on campus and explore everything, making connections that lead to career success and friendships that will last a lifetime.”
Carlson is also already looking ahead to the Cornhusker Marching Band’s 2023 camp.
“Oh, I’ll be back,” Carlson said. “And I’m going to defend my drill down title.”
— Troy Fedderson | University Communication and Marketing
No 'I' in Dining Services team
Troy Fedderson | University Communication and Marketing
A student (right) poses with Dining Services team members (from left) Julia Guilliams, Osman Sindiga and Joan Mendoza during the chancellor's barbecue on Aug. 19.
Teamwork is the key to success for Dining Services.
That was on full display Aug. 19 as some 3,200 University of Nebraska–Lincoln students — many fresh off storming the field in Memorial Stadium — gathered for the chancellor’s welcome back barbecue.
Led by Pat McManus, manager of the Harping Dining Center, a team of Dining Services employees and Student Affairs volunteers served the rush in record time — some directing students to shorter lines or to gluten-free options, others serving with a smile and well wishes for the semester ahead, and more flowing in and out, refilling food trays as they neared being empty.
“When we succeed, it’s not because of just one of us,” McManus said. “It’s because everyone works as a team, from planning and prep work to serving and cleaning up.
“That team spirit and our desire to have fun while connecting with students is what makes Dining Services at the University of Nebraska special.”
Troy Fedderson | University Communication
Pat McManus (in the No. 7 jersey) talks with Dave Annis, director of Dining Services, during the picnic on Aug. 19. The event served nearly 3,200 students.
Working to fulfill student desires and making them smile is McManus’ top goal. And, he’s ready to get going in a semester that looks like the most-normal since the pandemic started in 2020.
“I’m ready to get back to normal — or as near as we can be,” McManus said. “And, I’m excited to serve our students.”
And Huskers should be ready for a few new tricks from McManus and his Harper Dining team.
“We have a few ideas in the works,” McManus said. “We’re always looking to expand what we offer and maybe get a few more smiles for our work.”
— Troy Fedderson | University Communication and Marketing
Original source can be found here.
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