4312 Woodman Avenue, Suite 302 Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

Robin Howard, Director Lauren Palius, Assistant Director rshoward@syr.edu / 818-561-7376 lppalius@syr.edu / 818-561-7377

On main campus:

Shelly Griffin, Assistant Director-Off Campus Programs migriffi@syr.edu / 315-443-4004

On the web: http://LASemester.syr.edu

Facebook:

Syracuse University Los Angeles Semester

Twitter: @SULASemester

@RSHowardSU

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

FALL‘14: Pre-Departure Information – Revised 3.28.14

I. Agenda-March 31, 2014 (pgs 3-4)

II. SULA Semester Program Standards of Behavior (pgs 5-7)

III. Jack Oakie Scholarship (pgs 8-9)

IV. Resident Advisor Job Description (pg 10)

V. Work Study Opportunities (pg 11)

VI. Academics

i. 2014 Academic Calendar - Fall & Spring 2014 (pg 12)

(See separate registration packet for classes, professors, and textbook info).

VII. Internship

i. Resume Do’s & Don’ts (pg 13)

ii. 12 tips your career counselor hasn’t told you (pg 14-15)

iii. Interviewing Tips (pgs 16-17)

iv. What to include in the conversation (pg 18)

VIII. Living in Los Angeles

i. Banking (pg 19)

ii. Enterprise Car Rental (pg 20)

iii. Oakwood

a) Directions (pg 21)

b) Checking In / Reporting a Problem / Checking Out (pg 22)

c) About the Oakwood-Property Specifics (pgs 23-24)

d) Confirmation #’s, Apt address, mailing pkgs (pgs 25)

e) Health insurance (pg 25)

f) Apartment layouts (pg 26)

g) What’s included in the ‘intern package’ (pg 27)

h) To bring or not to bring????? (pg 28)

iv. Car and Pedestrian Culture (pg 29)

v. Maps (pgs 30-31)

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MARCH 31, 2014: AGENDA WELCOME: Goals and purpose of program

SULA Semester Program Standards of Behavior

Jack Oakie Scholarship

Work study opportunities

ACCLIMATION Attitude

Culture

Dress: For class

For internships

For events

For the weather

Driving : Feeling comfortable in LA traffic

Finding your internship

Finding vs relying on your GPS – Understanding the correlation between miles vs time

Take a Cyber Tour of LA : www.discoverlosangeles.com

ACADEMICS: 1) Classes and Class participation is a MUST.

2) Students must maintain FT status.

3) There is no tolerance for unexcused class absences, disrespecting professors or unprofessional

classroom conduct.

4) If you violate the SULA student code of conduct (attached), you could be dismissed from the

program.

5) Long Days – balancing proper sleep and nutrition while combining class expectations,

internship hours, and enjoying all LA has to offer.

ENTERPRISE: Car rentals are available through Enterprise for those who do not have a car. You will find a link

to the Oakwood – Syracuse University Enterprise webpage featuring the discounted rates on the

SULA Semester website: under Life @ SULA and click on Transportation

In addition – a rate sheet has been provided on page 20 of this packet. The rates provided, do not include tax, surcharges or daily insurance costs (optional). This can be deceiving and add up to unexpected dollars. Please anticipate these costs in your total figure when deciding if car rental is right for you.

Reservations for 18-20 yr old student drivers should be secured ONLY by calling Studio City Business Rental team.

NOTE: If you rent a vehicle from the airport location, you will NOT receive SU rates and will also incur a 20% surcharge. In the Enterprise system, it shows an Oakwood location at 3600 Barham Blvd. There is NOT a location at the Oakwood. Please choose the 11575 Ventura Blvd, Studio City 91604 location.

Insurance through Enterprise is very expensive. However, before you decline, you should check with your car insurance company to see if you are fully covered for long term rentals. Note: All car rental contracts are re-written every thirty (30) days. This allows for periodic service maintenance and oil changes. There is no charge to the student for this. In the event extended service is required, the student will receive a different vehicle.

Because contracts are rewritten every month, always check your monthly billing statements carefully re: all rental charges. Bring any errors to the attention of Enterprise immediately.

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INSTRUCTORS: Who are the SULA professors?

Read Bio’s and be familiar with their creative work. This is your first experience with LA professionals.

INTERNSHIPS: Everyone should be signed up for a one-on-one

interview with Director Howard.

Phone interviews and / or face-to-face interviews

for internships may be required.

You may not have a firm internship by the time

you leave for LA in January

DO NOT PANIC! You WILL have an internship for

the semester.

Stay in contact with Director Howard and Lauren. Keep them updated with your internship application status.

OAKWOOD: Environment – Oakwood houses students from various universities as well as working

professionals in the field Etiquette – maintain a reduced noise level and a higher courtesy for other tenants. Three noise complaints and you can be evicted from Oakwood. Apartment maintenance issues should be directed to the Oakwood immediately.

ORIENTATION: MONDAY, AUGUST 18: 9 A.M. TO 12 NOON (SULA) 5:45 P.M. TO 6:45 P.M. (OAKWOOD-N. CLUBHOUSE) 7 P.M. TO 9 P.M. (WELCOME BBQ)

TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2014: TBA WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2014: 9 A.M. TO 1 P.M. (PANEL DISCUSSION) THURSDAY, AUGUST 21, 2014: 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. (CULTURAL OUTING) FRIDAY, AUGUST 22, 2014: 3:30 P.M. TO 9:30 P.M. (SITCOM TAPING)

REGISTRATION: Everyone will all be coded for registration by Wednesday, April 7, 2014.

You need to register for a minimum of 12 credits to participate in the program.

This is a combination of SULA Classes, Arts & Sciences classes and your internship class.

Special cases of independent study may only be approved if paperwork is completed BEFORE

you leave for LA. A&S online classes PHI 293 Ethics in Entertainment Media is designed for LA

Semester students only. There are limited (20) spots though so please register early. The

professor does NOT grant permission for additional enrollment in the class.

If you incur any registration difficulties, please let Shelly know.

ROOMING SITUATIONS: Roommates will be emailed after May 15. Final apartment assignments will come from Oakwood approx a week before you move in (August). The resident advisor will be your immediate go-to persons for most needs at the Oakwood. RA’s MUST be in LA by Friday 8/15/14 and stay until Friday, 12/5/14.

TRADES: Variety, Billboard, Hollywood Reporter, LA Times Company Town Business Section, Nikki Fink -

http://www.deadline.com/hollywood

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SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY LOS ANGELES SEMESTER PROGRAM

SULA is committed to your health and safety while studying in Los Angeles. You must be in good disciplinary standing with your home college to be eligible to study in Los Angeles and must maintain this standing through your term in Los Angeles. LA Semester program participants are held accountable to the Syracuse University Statement of Student Rights and

Responsibilities, the SU Code of Student Conduct and the SU LA Semester Standards of Behavior while in Los Angeles.

SULA Semester Program Standards of Behavior

Overview

The most effective learning occurs in an environment that is safe and characterized by integrity and mutual respect among members of the community. Syracuse University Los Angeles (SULA) fosters such an environment by expecting that program participants adhere to documented Standards of Behavior. Adherence to principles of good conduct promotes safety, a respect for cultural diversity, and the fullest access to all there is to learn during your off campus-west coast experience. The SU LA Semester Program is committed to principles of fundamental fairness when considering administrative action for cases of alleged student misconduct. Toward this end, this document details both the SU LA Semester Program Standards of Behavior and its relationship with the SU Code of Student Conduct as well as the process by which the SU LA Semester program will review incidents of misconduct.

Students participating in the SU LA Semester program, regardless of their home college, must abide by the following:

State laws and cultural norms of the state of California

Housing rules as detailed by the Oakwood Apartment Complex

Policies and procedures of internship host companies

Syracuse University code of student conduct (http://supolicies.syr.edu/studs/std_code_conduct.htm)

Examples of SU LA Semester Program Standards of Behavior violations include but are not limited to:

1. Actions that are considered abusive, harassing, or actions that physically harm or threaten physical harm to any persons (including but not limited to: SU LA administration, SU LA instructors, LA Semester program students, alumni, and mentors, residents and staff of Oakwood community, host internship company employees, oneself).

2. Actions or behavior that is disruptive or threatens to impede order to the normal course of the classroom activities. 3. Damage to property (including but not limited to Oakwood, SU LA Headquarters, host internship company, another

student’s personal property). 4. Violation of Oakwood Apartment housing rules. 5. Violation of host internship company policies and procedures that jeopardizes the relationship between SULA, the SU LA

Semester Program and its established internship providers. 6. Disorderly conduct, public intoxication, and/or excessive use of alcohol. (re: state laws of CA) 7. Use or distribution of illegal drugs. (re: state laws of CA)

Students who violate the aforementioned policies are subject to both administrative actions by the SU LA Semester program and/or the judicial system procedures of their home college. Reports of misconduct will be provided to the student’s home college for

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consideration by the relevant judicial system as detailed below. All students are expected to be aware of the aforementioned policies and abide by them.

Accountability Process

The process outlined below describes how you will be held accountable when your behaviors do not match the SU LA Semester Program Standards of Behavior.

1. Documentation: Documentation occurs when a student or staff member observes a situation or obtains information that may indicate individual student behavior has deviated from expectations. Details of the incident will be documented via an incident report and you may be asked for information as part of this process. Keep in mind that failure to comply with directives of SU LA Semester staff made in the course of exercising their duties violates behavioral standards and may constitute a separate violation of the Standards of Behavior. Incident reports are filed with the LA Semester program director.

2. Initial Review: The LA Semester program director will determine whether the information in the incident report constitutes a violation of behavioral standards. If the LA Semester program director determines that the incident report reflects a violation of behavioral standards, the student will be issued a warning and/or called to a meeting.

3. Notice: If the incident is determined to be a behavioral standards issue, you will be sent a letter from the LA Semester program director outlining the specific behavioral standard(s) violations with which you are charged. The letter may serve as a formal warning (see Sanctions section) or it will outline a date and time for a meeting with the LA Semester program director to discuss these issues.

4. Meeting: If your letter calls you to a meeting with the LA Semester program director, you are required to meet at the time scheduled in the letter unless you have an academic conflict (e.g. class or examination). The LA Semester program director will serve as the hearing officer for the case. In this meeting you will discuss the incident, and you will be afforded an opportunity to tell your side of the story. If you are found responsible for violating the SU LA Semester Program Standards of Behavior, a sanction will be determined by the LA Semester program director.

5. Appeal: You may appeal the decision reached in the initial meeting for the following reasons: (1) procedural error that can be shown to have had a detrimental impact on the outcome of the meeting; (2) grossly inappropriate sanction having no reasonable relationship to the charges; or (3) new evidence not reasonably available at the time of the original meeting. Appeals may be addressed in writing to the LA Semester program director within five business days after the written decision has been made available.

Sanctions

Students who violate SU LA Semester Program Standards of Behavior will be subject to different sanction levels in accordance with the seriousness of the violation. The levels are:

1. Warning: In instances of less serious deviation from the SU LA Semester Program Standards of Behavior, the student will be formally warned in a letter from the LA Semester program director which details the possible consequences of continuing such behavior.

2. Disciplinary Reprimand: This status indicates that the student has made a serious violation of the SU LA Semester Program Standards of Behavior and/or has already received a warning for prior behavior. Continued poor behavior could lead to disciplinary probation, termination of internship, expulsion from housing, or expulsion from the program.

The SU LA Semester program director will formerly document that the student’s behavior has been deemed unacceptable. A copy of the documentation will be sent to the Syracuse University Office of Judicial Affairs and the student’s home college.

Sanctions for a disciplinary reprimand may include meeting with a staff member for counseling, completing community service, restitution for damages, and/or writing a research paper.

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3. Disciplinary Probation: This action constitutes a change in status between good standing and suspension or expulsion from the SU LA Semester program. The student is allowed to remain enrolled in the SU LA Semester program with restrictions. Further violations may lead to immediate suspension or expulsion from the LA Semester program and perhaps the university. The decision to place a student on disciplinary probation will be made by the LA Semester program director in consultation with the student’s home college Dean or his/her designee.

The LA Semester program director will formerly document the student’s behavior as well as the conditions by which the student will remain enrolled in the program. A copy of the documentation will be sent to the Syracuse University Office of Judicial Affairs and the student’s home college.

The student must have a series of meetings with appropriate staff, abide by the conditions outlined in the formal documentation, complete community service, pay restitution for damages, and/or write a research paper related to the violation.

4. Residential Probation: This status indicates that the student has violated housing rules as outlined by the Oakwood Apartments housing complex. Further violations may result in the immediate removal from housing and/or from the LA Semester program. The decision to place a student on residential probation will be made by the LA Semester program director in consultation with the Oakwood Housing executive personnel.

The LA Semester program director will formerly document the student’s behavior as well as the conditions by which the student will remain in Syracuse University sponsored housing. A copy of the documentation will be sent to the Syracuse University Office of Judicial Affairs and the student’s home college.

The student must have a series of meetings with appropriate staff, abide by the conditions outlined in the formal documentation, complete community service, pay restitution, and/or write a research paper related to the violation.

5. Residential Relocation or Expulsion: This status indicates that the student is not eligible to live in Syracuse University sponsored housing. The student will be removed from SU sponsored housing and is required to find and pay for alternative housing for the duration of the program. There will be no refund of the SU housing fee. Further violations could result in expulsion from the SU LA Semester program. The decision to remove or expel students from housing will be made jointly by the LA Semester program director and Oakwood Housing executive personnel.

The SU LA Semester program director will formerly document the student’s behavior as well as the conditions by which the student will remain enrolled in the program. A copy of the documentation will be sent to the SU office of real estate operations and the Syracuse University Office of Judicial Affairs.

6. Suspension or termination from the SU LA Semester program: The LA Semester program director may suspend or terminate a student’s participation in the SU LA Semester program in the event the student fails to comply with the SU LA Semester program standards of behavior, the Syracuse University student code of conduct, or if SU LA believes that the student’s participation poses a danger to the student or others or threatens to impede orderly conduct of the SU LA Semester program. Such suspension or termination is in addition to, and not in lieu of, disciplinary action that may be imposed by Syracuse University or the student’s home college pursuant to applicable policies and procedures.

________________________________________________

Student Name (Print)

________________________________________________ ________________________________

Student Signature Date

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The Jack Oakie and Victoria Horne Oakie Charitable Foundation

SULA Semester Entertainment Excellence Scholarship – Fall 2014

The Jack Oakie and Victoria Horne Oakie Charitable Foundation - LA Semester Entertainment Excellence Scholarship provides financial support for outstanding undergraduate students in the Syracuse University LA Semester program. Application process:

Students must complete and submit the attached application form

Students are responsible for securing and viewing a Jack Oakie or Victoria Horne Oakie film of their choice. A Jack Oakie and Victoria Horne Oakie filmography can found at http://lasemester.syr.edu

In no more than three (3) double spaced pages provide a synopsis and a critique of the Jack Oakie or Victoria Horne Oakie film of your choice. Additionally, in one (1) paragraph, reflecting your area of expertise or interest, select one scene from the film and make suggestions about what changes you can make to improve the scene. Your essay should not include your name or SU ID number.

Submit application form and essay, as (2) separate Word documents, to Lauren Palius at lppalius@syr.edu by Tuesday, June 3rd at (noon) 12:00 PM EST.

Eligibility requirements:

Must be accepted for and attend the LA semester program for the application semester

Must be in good academic and University standing

Must fulfill all the requirements for the Award and application process

Students of all disciplines may apply

Awards:

THREE $2,500 Jack Oakie “It’s All In Fun” Awards

ONE $1,000 Jack Oakie Comedy Scholarship in honor of Chancellor Kent Syverud

ONE $1,000 Jack Oakie Comedy Scholarship in honor of Doug Robinson ‘85

The merit based scholarships will be awarded to the five most outstanding essays, as deemed by a committee of

Syracuse University Professors

Award is received via the awardees’ Syracuse University Bursar account. NOTE: The acceptance of this award

may impact a student’s existing financial aid package. Recipients should contact the SU financial aid office to

determine if acceptance of this scholarship will have any impact on their account.

Please contact Lauren Palius at (818) 561-7377 or lppalius@syr.edu with questions.

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The Jack Oakie and Victoria Horne Oakie Charitable Foundation

SULA Semester Scholarships

FALL 2014 APPLICATION

Name:

SU ID #:

School:

Major:

Email:

Phone:

Address:

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SULA SEMESTER PROGRAM

RESIDENTIAL ADVISOR JOB DESCRIPTION

As the SULA Semester Program Resident Advisor, you will work to develop a sense of community for our students at Oakwood Apartments. You will intentionally facilitate dialogue with individual students and groups of students to identify student needs and ultimately respond to those needs. Resident Advisors work cooperatively with the Oakwood and SULA staff to resolve issues, develop social opportunities for the student body, and assist with special projects. Resident Advisors are required to become familiar with the referrals and resources available to students in Los Angeles so that they can provide recommendations when necessary.

RESPONSIBILITIES: COMMUNITY FACILITATOR

Organize social activities for the students (hiking trips, game viewing parties, dinners, visiting local museums, traveling to near by cities (San Diego, Vegas, Northern CA), etc.

Keep well-informed of activities at Oakwood and encourage students to attend

CRISIS MANAGER/ADMINISTRATOR

Aid any student who encounters a problem with housing (when necessary, report issues to Oakwood staff on behalf of student and/ or follow-up with the student to make sure the problem has been resolved)

Understand emergency procedures established by SULA and Oakwood

Follow protocol in the event of a natural disaster

Respond to and provide assistance to students in distress

Handle roommate conflicts

TEAM MEMBER/ROLE MODEL

Demonstrate behavior consistent with departmental and staff expectations

Respect and maintain confidentiality

Act as an appropriate referral agent for students

Give and receive feedback from others in an appropriate manner

Balance academics, personal relationships and extracurricular activities with the Resident Advisor position Know and adhere to the Code of Student Conduct, Terms and Conditions of Student Housing, Residence Life

Departmental Standards, the Syracuse University Sexual Harassment Policy, Alcohol/Drug Policy and other policies of the University

MISCELLANEOUS

Must be available to work beginning Friday, August 15 through Friday, December 5, 2014.

Attend a scheduled meeting with SULA staff during orientation week

During orientation week work with SULA staff to: to designate an emergency contact persons for each

apartment unit at Oakwood and determine a meeting place at Oakwood for use in the event of a natural

disaster.

Perform other duties as assigned

Please note that the above responsibilities are in addition to any set by the Office of Residential Life.

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Work Study Opportunities

A limited number of Work-Study hours are available in Los Angeles during the semester. This opportunity is available to any current SULA Semester Program participant who has received a Federal Work-Study award.

To Apply:

Email SULA Semester Assistant Director, Lauren Palius at lppalius@syr.edu and provide:

o The amount of work study you have been awarded o Your class schedule for the semester o Attach a resume and briefly describe the tasks you performed at your past work study positions

Job Description:

Support the SULA Semester Program and the SULA office by performing administrative tasks. Tasks include updating & creating excel spreadsheets, corresponding with internship hosts and alumni, photo-copying, setting-up/ moving tables & chairs, operating presentation equipment and other special projects as assigned.

Qualifications:

Must be participating in the LA Semester Program and have a current Federal Work-Study award. Must have knowledge of PCs and Microsoft Office Suite. Knowledge of Excel and camera equipment a plus. Punctuality, attention to detail and a service oriented approach required. Ability to lift 25 pounds.

Hours & Availability:

One position available per semester. Number of hours based on Program needs - typically 3 to 6 hours of work per week. Specific work schedule based on work-study’s class and internship schedule. Rate of pay is $8 per hour.

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2014 Academic Calendar Spring 14

MANDATORY: Pre-Departure Meeting Monday, March 31 @ 9 a.m. Rm 140 / NH3 (Herg Auditorium)

One on One Internship Meetings with Director Howard Various times week of March 31 through April 4

Housing Accommodations lease cancellation refund deadline (cancellations received after this date will result in student being charged the full FALL ‘14 housing payment)

April 15, 2014

Roommate Assignments emailed to students After May 15, 2014

Fall 14

Schedule adjustment for returning undergraduate students NOTE: Online A&S classes listed in SULA registration handout are not guaranteed open to SULA Semester students during this time. Students should seek permission from A&S if closed out.

Monday, August 4-Friday, August 8

Oakwood Housing Apartment Assignments Available (emailed to students) w/o August 11, 2014

Oakwood Move In Friday, August 15 (after 3 PM) – Sunday, August 17

MANDATORY: Los Angeles 101 Orientation Week: August 18-22, 2014

Mon, August 18: 9a-12p (SULA) 5:45-6:45p (Oakwood) 7-9 p.m. (Welcome BBQ) Tue, August 19: TBA Wed, August 20: 9A-1PM (Panel) Thu, August 21: 10A-4P (Cultural Outing) Fri, August 22: 3:30-9:30P (Sitcom)

Internships and classes officially begin for SULA Semester students Monday, August 25, 2014

Labor Day – University Closed / NO Classes Monday, September 1, 2014

MYSLICE schedule adjustment Monday, August 25 – Tuesday, September 2, 2014

LAST DAY TO ADD A CLASS

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

PASS / FAIL DEADLINE Monday, September 8, 2014

FINANCIAL DROP DEADLINE Monday,September 15, 2014

Mid-semester progress reports due from faculty Monday, October 6, 2014

Mid-term Monday, October 13, 2014

ACADEMIC DROP DEADLINE (via drop form, petition and email from professor)

Monday, October 20, 2014

REGISTRATION FOR SPRING ‘15 Wednesday, November 12-Friday, December 12

Withdrawal deadline Friday, November 21, 2014

FALL Break (NO classes, University offices open M-W) Sunday, November 23-Sunday, November 30

Last Day of Classes Thursday, December 4, 2014

End of Oakwood Housing Saturday, December 6, 2014

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Résumé Do’s and Don’ts for Internship Applications

Do…

Keep it ONE PAGE. The rule is one page equals 10 years or less experience; two pages equals 10+ years experience. Ninety percent of multiple-page résumés are a result of graphic problems – don’t skip unnecessary spaces or lines; don’t under-utilize margins; keep font size reasonable; don’t put ONE item per line.

Keep information RELEVANT to the position you’re applying for. If you want to write news, put writing

experience front and center. If you want to convey reliability or responsibility, make sure you include that part-time job you’ve had since high school. The reader should view your résumé and say to him/herself, “This makes sense – he/she can do this work.” If the experience is old or does not use skills necessary for the position, relegate it to the bottom or to a sentence or eliminate it all together.

Include Education, Work Experience, University Related Experience and skills. For Education, include Syracuse

University, your college, major and anticipated year. Education should be at the top of your resume while you are still a student and move to the bottom once you’ve graduated. Work Experience is the most important part of your resume. Work experience includes any industry related jobs or internships. The University Related Experience category allows you to highlight any relevant class projects or activities. Don’t include the course title. The format should mirror that of your work experience. For example, if you worked on a class film title “Ryan’s House” – this would go in place of the company name, followed by your title, producer, for example. Skills listed should include computer programs, software, technical equipment and language skills.

Use bold face, capitals and bullet points for emphasis. Underlining is too busy, italics fade away and indenting is

downright confusing. Keep graphics simple. Keep the resume easy to read. Keep the space ratio in mind. Dedicate the most space to relevant information, least space to least relevant. In

other words, if your name, address and education take up half your résumé, you need to rethink the space ratio.

DON’T…

Expect the reader to hunt for relevant information in your résumé. It’s your job to make it easy to read.

Expect the reader to know what you actually did. When you use vague terms such as “assisted” or “worked with” be sure to elaborate. Be as descriptive as possible to represent your skills.

Use narrative to describe your experience. You have a better chance of keeping the reader’s attention when you

stick to short, incomplete sentences.

Waste time with an objective. Usually trite and vague, such as, “a position in tv/film that will allow me to use my skills” gives the reader no idea what you want to do.

Hang on to the past. By the time you’re a senior, the high school information should be LONG gone (unless you won a Pulitzer in junior high or did something truly shocking).

Include information such as health or marital status, country of birth, etc. It’s illegal for companies to inquire about that so best not to offer it!

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I’ve Read 500 Cover Letters for Entry-Level Media Jobs

Here are 12 tips your career counselor hasn’t told you.

By Katherine Goldstein (Katherine Goldstein is Slate’s innovations editor, directing traffic and social media strategy for Slate. Follow her on Twitter.

Over the last five years, I’ve read something like 500 applications for entry-level media jobs. Over time, I’ve spotted many talented people, including a number of recent college graduates who are now valued Slate employees. Slate is a small company, so when it’s time to make a hire, a list of three great HR-approved candidates does not magically appear on my desk. I write the ads (like this one) and read all of the responses myself—and after scaling mountains of cover letters I’ve developed some opinions I can no longer hold back.

The most important one is this: Many young people seem to have no idea how to apply for a job. What I see time after time from young media hopefuls are not the classic no-nos, like misspellings and typos, but what appears to be a fundamental lack of understanding of how to sell oneself to a prospective employer. While I certainly don’t speak for all media folk or even all of the editors at Slate, allow me to offer some guidance to current college students and recent grads. Some of my advice may sound familiar, but based on the applications I’m seeing, there are plenty of green job-seekers out there who could use these pointers.

Focus on the cover letter. It is not uncommon for me to get 100 applications for one spot, so I’m constantly looking for reasons not to advance a candidate to the interview round. Writing a good cover letter is your best shot at getting noticed. If I hate a cover letter, I won’t even look at the résumé.

Keep it short. I started putting word limits on cover letters because I couldn’t stand, nor did I have the time to read, the epically long letters I’d receive. I’m going to give your letter maybe 30 seconds of my time. If you are interested in a job in journalism, you should be able to tell me about yourself and why I should hire you in less than 200 words. I’ve never hired someone with a longwinded cover letter. Same goes for résumés. No one with fewer than four years of full time work experience needs more than a page. Your summer lifeguarding job does not need five bullet points.

Avoid awkward phrasing and attempts to be overly formal. Introductions like “With this statement, I declare my interest in the position you have advertised on your website” are clumsy and should be avoided. Start with a strong but simple opener, like “I'm excited to be writing to you to apply for the blogging position at Slate.” Conversational is much better than stilted.

You are your best advocate. It’s not uncommon for me to get a cover letter that opens with, “I am sure you are getting many qualified applicants for this job, many of whom are more qualified than I.” If you don’t believe you are the best candidate, why should I? This letter is your chance to sell yourself. Don’t plant the seed in my mind that you aren’t the best candidate for the job. You don’t want to be overly cocky, but I’ll take confident over meek any day.

Show me that you read my site. It’s common for cover letter writers to say, “I love Slate,” but that doesn’t stand out to me. Be more specific. Who are your favorite writers? What are some recent articles you enjoyed? Detailed flattery will get you further, because it shows you’ve done your homework. Ninety percent of the cover letters I read for our news blog, the Slatest, mention nothing specific about that particular blog. Here’s what one applicant for a recent position wrote (spoiler: I hired him): “I'm particularly drawn to a dynamic news outlet like the Slatest. I appreciate its blend of politics and current affairs, as well as its ability to consistently sniff out the most compelling news pieces and narratives.

The importance of a good cover letter. Photo by Thinkstock

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I dig its sense of humor, too—I can't resist a news blog that picks up on the latest North Korean, pigeon–eating propaganda pieces.”

Explain how selecting you will benefit me. This is where candidates often get it totally backward. I frequently read lines like: “I am applying for this paid internship because I think working at Slate would be highly beneficial for me, and would do a lot to help my future job prospects for a career in media for after I graduate from college.” I know how working at Slate would strengthen your résumé. But I am looking to you, candidate X, to solve a problem for me. My problem is that I need good interns. Explain to me how choosing you will solve my problem. Here’s how one candidate convinced me that his skills were pertinent to the role I was hiring for: “From my editorial experience as managing editor of 34th Street Magazine here at Penn, to my experience in news and culture blogging at LAist.com last summer, I've picked up the tools I need to perform as a Slatest intern with excellence.”

I’m not interested in anything you did before college. Leave anecdotes like this out: “I am a born storyteller, and I’ve loved writing ever since I won an award for playwriting in the third grade for my series of puppet fairytales.” If you are early in your college career, then hopefully you still have relevant experiences and interests to write about. If you don’t, know that you’ll be competing with upperclassmen, college grads, and graduate students who do.

I’m not interested in your life journeys. This includes your experiences studying abroad, even if you had an amazing time. I get too many letters with paragraphs like: “I’ve wondered to myself, how can I translate my natural talent for the written word into a life path that is interesting and meaningful? I asked myself this question many times during my study abroad in Morocco. I loved working with the Moroccan farmers in helping feed their families, but I also longed for a way to feed my own passions for books, literature, and writing. As I enter my senior year, I think more and more that my true calling could be to be a journalist.” Save these musings for late night dorm room chats with your best friend.

When I read “senior thesis” my eyes glaze over. Despite the fact your academic advisers have convinced you these are really important, most people don’t care about them in the real world. Be wary of dwelling on what your topic is and PLEASE do not attach a chapter with your application. Writing a senior thesis has nothing to do with journalism. I’ll never open it, and I’ll resent you for sending it.

I don’t really care what classes you’ve taken, either. I’m much more interested in what you’ve done that relates to the skills needed for the position than I am in what you’ve studied. An interesting Tumblr account, a vibrant Twitter presence, or a personal blog on a topic you are passionate about is 10 times more compelling to me than your course load.

Your college and GPA aren’t as important as you think. This may be the biggest blow to you, grasshopper. In general, I don’t care about your GPA or whether you went to an Ivy League school, so definitely don’t expect this alone to swing open any doors for you. Of all the entry-level people I’ve hired, the one that went on to have the most successful career in media never finished college. If you are still in college, you should mention where you go and what you study. But the further out of college you are, the less I want to hear about where you went or how you did there.

Follow the application instructions to a T. I often give really specific instructions in the job posting, listing a word limit on cover letters, requesting exactly two writing samples, and noting a firm deadline for when applications are due. This is my first test in how good you are at taking direction. If you send four writing samples rather than two, that doesn’t make me think you are overqualified, it makes me think you can’t edit yourself or aren’t good at doing what is asked of you. Small mistakes like this help me figure out whom to eliminate, so tread carefully.

If you follow these instructions, you should have a good shot at making it to the top of the pile. It might not be long before you’re on the other side of the desk, reading cover letters yourself. Good luck.

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INTERNSHIP INTERVIEWING TIPS

1. Be Prepared. Dress appropriately for the job you are interviewing for. Look like a professional. No ripped or torn jeans, hoodies, t-shirts, sneakers, funky makeup or nail polish. If you are interviewing for an agency position, you will need to be in a suit and jacket. If you are interviewing at a production job, wear nice slacks and a dress shirt. 2. Be on Time. Being on time is being there 15 minutes early. Coming at the appointed time is actually considered late. 3. SILENCE your cell phones immediately when you arrive including the vibration noise. 4. Research your company. Know what they have produced, what is in production, what production has been picked up. Learn what has happened, what is happening, who is participating, what is going on. Set up your email to receive RSS News feeds re: the company. If it is a production company, make sure you not only have seen some of their work but are familiar with what you haven’t seen. If it is an agency, know who they rep and who the key players are. 5. Make a list of questions you want to ask them. Avoid questions that show you haven’t researched the company or are unfamiliar with their work. (and see # 4 above) 6. Practice answering sample interview questions to prepare and gain confidence before the interview. The most common question is “Why do you want to work here?” Have an intelligent, well –thought out answer ready. 7. Bring a clean copy of your resume. Your resume should be a simple one pager that lists your past jobs and internships. 8. Be conscious of first impressions. Do not chew gum. Brush your teeth. Avoid foods that give bad breath odors. (skip the onions on the burger or eat afterwards) Wear deodorant. Avoid too much perfume or after shave. You may smell good to you, but your interviewer may have allergies. 9. Clean up your online image. More and more employers are turning to the internet for information. Get rid of anything negative on your Facebook, Myspace, Twitter OR any unflattering blogs you wrote. 54% of companies report that they check Facebook and Twitter when interviewing candidates. And that percentage only reflects the companies that admit that they do. (the actual percentage is closer to 75%) Don’t assume you can’t be found. 10. Make a Good First Impression. Smile. Give a firm handshake. Maintain eye contact. Sit straight in your chair (no slouching). Be confident. Being nervous is normal but let your body language display confidence. 11. Emphasize Your Skills and Accomplishments, Provide concrete examples. Do not overstate your qualifications. Focus on your skills and accomplishments especially how it relates to the entertainment

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industry. College coursework, volunteering, co-curricular activities, computer (Avid/Final Cut), language (do you speak another language fluently?) Talk positively about previous internships and/or work experiences. (Never, ever, put a previous company or employer down- in this business, the chances you will cross paths with someone again are very likely). Emphasize circumstances in which you used your quick thinking and problem solving skills... 12. Understand the Question Before Answering. It is OK to ask the interviewer for clarification or to repeat the question. You want to know what the interviewer is looking for before you go ahead and assume that you have the right answer. It’s also okay to pause before answering. 13. Follow the Interviewer's Lead. Don’t spend too much time on any one question but make sure you have answered the entire question before going on to the next one. You might want to check with the interviewer to see if you answered the entire question or if he/she would like additional information. 14. Emphasize the Positive. You may be asked during the interview to give a list of your strengths and weaknesses. Focus on the positive. Avoid negativity. Don’t list skills necessary to perform the job you are applying for as an example of your weakness (ie: I have trouble multi-tasking and staying organized, I am not a morning person, etc) Saying something like “I am a perfectionist, so I tend to ask a lot of questions if I don’t understand something ” is an example of how you can turn a weakness into a positive response in the eyes of an interviewer. 15. Close the Interview with Confidence Thank the interviewer for his/her time. Tell them you are looking forward to hearing from them. 16. Follow Up the Interview with a handwritten thank you note Even in this day of computer technology……it is better to SEND a handwritten thank-you note. To quote Randy Pausch’s, The Last Lecture, “A handwritten hard copy personally addressed sent via snail mail is and always will be, better than an email.” I will delete an email. I will attach your handwritten thank-you to your application materials.

http://www.syracuse.com/job-advice/index.ssf/2011/05/a_simple_thank_you.html

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WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR INITIAL INTERNSHIP DUTIES CONVERSATION?

After you secure your internship, you should meet with your internship supervisors and make sure that you have

a clear understanding of both your expectations and theirs.

1. TERM OF EMPLOYMENT: Avoid misunderstanding by clearly stating which day you will begin and also which day

you will end. Ideally, you should begin your internship on or after Monday, August 25, 2014 and end on or

before Thursday, December 4, 2014.

2. HOURS: Get the office list of hours you are expected to work each week. Be sure to include “overtime” or

“special events.” We are asking you to work 18-24 internship hours per-week to be arranged in coordination

with your employer with the understanding that you are required to be in class on time for your evening classes.

Traffic, travel time, and dinner should also be factored into this equation. Employers should also know that a

one-time special event that presents unique academic circumstances could be accommodated, however

consistent requests to stay late and miss class are not allowed or acceptable.

3. COMPANY CULTURE: Since you are completing the internship for college credit, it is not expected that you will

receive a stipend for your work. However, companies should offer reimbursement for out of pocket expenses

related to the job or a gas stipend for running errands with your personal vehicle. This is a conversation you

need to have before you begin. I.E. Will you be asked to run errands? Will you be compensated for

gas/mileage? It is possible that some companies will provide an occasional lunch or snack but it is not to be

expected. Be mindful of the dress code within your company. Do not assume that jeans and t-shirts are

acceptable. Flip flops are never acceptable. Some companies may require business casual attire while others do

allow for jeans with a blouse/polo shirt. You will become acquainted with your company’s culture within the

first week or two of work.

4. WORK ASSIGNMENT: When you first meet with your direct supervisors at your internship, please have a

conversation about their expectations, their needs, as well as your interests and your expectations. Please

make it clear that you understand that there will be a certain percentage of entry level, task oriented duties.

You also understand that even these kinds of

tasks have challenges and are a vital part of your

education. This would be the best time to

complete the required site proposal form with

your supervisor.

5. ILLNESS / FALL BREAK / TIME OFF: Make sure

you know who to contact in the event of illness

and absence and the method of contact

preferred. Do not assume a text or email is

acceptable. If you are not planning to remain in

LA and work at your internship over the Spring

Break holiday, be sure to give your host

company notice well in advance.

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LIVING IN LOS ANGELES: BANKING

Unfortunately, there is not a check cashing service at the

Oakwood Apartments. Cashing an out of state check at a

local bank (unless the check is from a branch of that bank) is

difficult and typically banks do not allow it. This could be

frustrating for students. The easiest methods for banking are

through the use of ATM machines and/or opening an account

at a local bank.

Automatic Teller Machines (ATM)

The easiest way to access money from your home bank will be through an ATM card. If you are currently

accessing money using an Automatic Teller system, you will be able to use your card at an ATM machine in

LA. An ATM machine is available in the clubhouse on the Oakwood property. Please be aware that some ATM

machines charge a fee every time you take money out of your account at the machine. In addition, banks

typically charge an additional transaction fee if you do not use one of the bank’s own ATM locations. This

could result in $2 to $5 of additional charges to you just for taking money out of your own account! If you

took money out of your account weekly, this could easily add up to $75 or more in fees over the semester.

Opening An Account

You may want to open a savings/checking account for the semester at a local bank. There are several banks

located a short distance from the Oakwood.* To open an account, you will need three things.

A) a valid passport or photo driver’s license (an out of state driver’s license is okay as long as it has your

photo);

B) a 2nd form of photo ID (your Syracuse University SUID card is accepted);

C) Your social security card (or a photocopy of it).

*Go to http://lasemester.syr.edu and click on Life@SULA/Explore LA/Banking for a listing of banks in the

immediate vicinity of the Oakwood. Also check with your banking institution for locations in the LA area.

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OAKWOOD - SYRACUSE

UNIVERSITY

If you have any questions, please contact our Business Rental team, Chad Voorhees at Chad.M.Voorhees@ehi.com

or Cheri White at 818-972-2218, Cheryl.L.White@ehi.com

For 18-20 year olds: Rates apply at the 11575 Ventura Blvd, Studio City location only. Call directly (818-972-2218) to

make your reservation.

There is a surcharge of $10.00/day for 18-20 yr old drivers. No additional drivers are eligible and there is no car sharing

allowed. Proof of Insurance coverage is necessary (policy card AND letter from insurance company stating student is

covered for over 30 days in the state of California. Be sure to tell your insurance company that contracts are rewritten

every 30 days) Students from the home state of Massachusetts may require rider addition to policy. Please check your

coverage carefully as many companies and policies differ.

For 21-24 year olds: Your discount code is 32W5017 and you can use this number when making reservations to receive

discounted rates at any LA location except the airports. It is preferable that you rent from the Studio City location.

Please be aware that renting from airports will result in a 20% increase due to surcharges and airport taxes. These

charges cannot be reversed or waived. Students are advised to rent from Studio City and take a super shuttle or taxi to

the rental car location. There are no additional surcharge fee for 21-24 year olds.

ONLINE RESERVATIONS: Visit http://lasemester.syr.edu , Click on tab entitled “Life @ SULA”, then “Transportation”, and

then scroll to the bottom “How do I rent a car in Los Angeles” and click on the Enterprise link. This takes you directly to

the SU / Enterprise home page “Oakwood – Syracuse University” to the right of the screen. If you don’t see this, you are

on the wrong site. Discounted rates you see below are already programmed into this site.

When reserving online, you MUST check that student is 21-24 or over 25 EVEN if the student isn’t….the Enterprise

online system does not recognize 18-20 yr old special student rates that our Studio City office has granted us (that’s why

they want you to call them).

There is NO longer an Oakwood branch, however the online system still shows that there is one. Please do not click on

that location. You should choose the Studio City branch (11575 Ventura Blvd). This is the location that works directly

with our SULA Semester students and parents.

CAR TYPE DAILY RATES* WEEKLY RATES*

MONTHLY RATES*

Economy $36.00 $187.00 $545.00 Compact $38.00 $198.00 $555.00

Intermediate $40.00 $210.00 $595.00 Standard $45.00 $230.00 $645.00 Full Size $55.00 $285.00 $835.00 Premium $65.00 $330.00 $882.00 Luxury $83.00 $407.00 $1307.00 Minivan $99.00 $440.00 $1035.00

Medium SUV $88.00 $440.00 $1035.00 Large SUV $120.00 $550.00 $1365.00

*Rates do not include taxes, fees or underage surcharge

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LIVING IN LOS ANGELES: THE OAKWOOD APARTMENTS

Directions:

From Burbank (BUR) Airport : (4.3 miles) 2627 North Hollywood Way (818-840-8830) Note: Cabs are available outside the airport. Take HOLLYWOOD WAY SOUTH to OLIVE AVENUE 3.1 mi Turn RIGHT on OLIVE which merges with BARHAM BL 1.1 mi Turn LEFT at SOUTH COYOTE CANYON RD into the property entrance 0.1 mi From Los Angeles (LAX) Airport : 27.71 miles (LA traffic could make this an hour long commute) NOTE: Cabs are available outside the LAX terminal….a cab ride will cost you $50. There is a super shuttle available for $24 / person and $10 each additional person. For groups of 7-9 people, it is approx $80 to charter the shuttle. Students are recommended to reserve at least a week in advance by calling (800) BLUE-VAN (800-258-3826) Take CENTURY BL East to 405 NORTH Take 405 NORTH to US-101 SOUTH toward Los Angeles Take the BARHAM BL exit Turn LEFT on CAHUENGA BL Turn LEFT on BARHAM BL Turn RIGHT into property entrance (approximately four blocks) GPS Address: (Note: 3500 is for your GPS main gate arrival / 3600 Barham Blvd is the mailing address) OAKWOOD TOLUCA 3500 BARHAM BOULEVARD LOS ANGELES, CA 90068 Arriving by Car: If you are driving to Los Angeles, the easiest way to get to the Oakwood Apartments is to take the Hollywood Freeway (101). If you are coming from the south, take the Hollywood Freeway NORTH to the Barham exit. Take a right at Barham Blvd and go down the hill past two stop lights. At the third light (South Coyote Lane), take a right turn into the Oakwood entrance. If you are coming from the north, take the Hollywood Freeway SOUTH (the freeway changes number from 170 to 101) to the Barham exit. Take a left at Barham and down the hill past two stop lights. At the third light (South Coyote Lane), take a right turn into the Oakwood entrance.

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Checking In: The Oakwood Apartment complex is located on Barham Boulevard (3500 for main gate / 3600 mailing). You may begin check in anytime from Friday, August 15, 2014 (after 3 pm) through Sunday, August 17, 2014. You MUST be checked in by Sunday, August 17, 2014. Mandatory orientation begins Monday, August 18th at 9 a.m. PARENTS ARE INVITED. When you arrive tell the guard that you are from Syracuse University and there to check in. The guard will direct you to the South Clubhouse, where you will complete check in paperwork and receive your keys. Photo identification is required. If you intend to arrive after hours when the South Clubhouse is closed, the guard will check you into your apartment. The next day you can fill out the necessary paperwork at the North Clubhouse. Please contact guest services to let them know of your pending arrival and to obtain additional assistance 323.851.3450 Hours of Operation: South Business office - Sunday–Thursday (9:00 am to 6:00 pm) Friday-Saturday (9:00 am to 8:00 pm) North Business Office - Monday – Friday (9:00 am to 6:00 pm) Closed Sat/Sun Reporting a Problem: If at any time you have an issue or concern with the condition of your apartment please call the Oakwood 24 hour call center at 323-851-3450 and select option 2. If you wish to reach the front desk during business hours (9 am to 6 pm) you can call the above number and select option 3. Additionally, any concerns can be reported to Robin or Lauren. It is crucial that you follow these instructions and report your concerns before trying to resolve any matters on your own. Check Out: Check out any time after Thursday, December 4th (last day of classes) through Saturday, December 6, 2014. You and your apartment mates are responsible for the condition of the apartment (including carpets) upon check out. You will be charged if Oakwood deems it necessary to administer extra cleaning to the carpet, replace the carpet or repair any damages to the apartment. The costs, which are determined by Oakwood, will be withdrawn from your security deposit before it is refunded to you. Each apartment unit will be issued a natural disaster emergency kit, which should only be used in a true emergency (ie: earthquake). Kits will be checked at the end of the semester and a portion of your security deposit will be retained if any of the items are missing. Samples of additional carpet cleaning and carpet damage:

Facilities:

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ABOUT THE OAKWOOD

APARTMENTS

Wireless High Speed Internet Access / Cable TV / Instant Phone Service with Voice Mail / Fully equipped Kitchen* / Dishwasher / Built-In Microwave / Easy Access Walk-Up and Walk-In Closets / Fireplace / Patio or Balcony / Vertical Window Blinds / Ceiling Fans / Wall-to-Wall Carpeting / Shower and dressing area / Air Conditioning / Spacious Linen Closets* / Mirrored Closets / Trash Chutes on Each Floor *Please see the attached intern apartment sheet for specific items that are included with your apartment rental.

PROPERTY SPECIFICS: (please note: fees may apply)

Swimming Pool & Hydromassage: hours are 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Lighted Tennis Courts: hours are 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Basketball Court: hours are 8:00 a.m.- 10:00 p.m. Volleyball Court: hours are 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Toluca Town Children's Playground:

hours are 8:00 a.m. - dusk Convenience Store & Deli:

Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.; Saturday - Sunday, 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. (located next to South Rental Office. Deliveries are available to apartments with a $20 minimum purchase.) Call (323) 876-0852. Parking available in front of the South Clubhouse.

On-site Laundry Facilities: located on the ground floor near the elevator lobby of most buildings $1.75 wash/ $1.50 dry Uses HE detergent only.

COMPLIMENTARY Sunday Brunch: Served from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. in the North Clubhouse.

South Clubhouse Amenities Include: Rental office, conference room, party room, dry cleaners, self-service business center, wide-screen TV theatre, fitness center, Enterprise Rent-A-Car office, soda machines, ATM, deli market, ice machine, newsstand.

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North Clubhouse Amenities Include: Administrative office, conference room, party room, dry cleaners, wide screen TV theatre, fitness center, soda machines, hair salon, ice machine, newsstand

Outside Common Areas Include: Use of all outdoor facilities (including pool) by anyone under 14 years of age is prohibited unless under the direct supervision of the lessee, parent, and/or guardian. For safety of all, glass or breakable objects are not permitted in any of the pool facilities. All floatation devices other than life preservers are prohibited in the pool.

Judy Lea Hair Design for Men & Women: Wed-Sat. Call (323) 851-7979 for appointments. Located next to North Clubhouse. Fees apply.

South Business Office - phone: (323) 851-3450 - hours: Su-Th 9a-6p, Fri/Sat 9am-8pm North Administrative Office - phone: (323) 878-2400 - hours: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm; Sat-Sun: closed. Trash Rooms/Chutes - are located near the elevator lobby of most buildings and are accessible on

every floor. Self-Service Business Center: Located next to the Leasing Office of the South Clubhouse. Open daily:

6am-10pm. Equipped with a copier, fax machine, and computer. Minimum age for use: Residents 16 years of age or older. Free copying for SU students—must supply your own paper!

Basketballs, volleyballs and table tennis equipment are available for loan out at both clubhouses. Vacuum cleaners and luggage carts are also available to lend during business hours for a maximum of

one hour at a time. Driver's license or valid photo I.D. required as collateral for equipment loaned out; sorry, we do not accept apartment or car keys as collateral.

Complimentary Continental Breakfast: Sunday Brunch is served from 11am to 12noon in the North Clubhouse.

Tennis Pro Shop: Open daily (see posted hours) at the South Clubhouse. Call the Tennis Pro at (323) 878-6390 for expert coaching, rental equipment, and racquet-restringing services. Fees apply.

Conference Room and Party Room Rental: Fees apply. Please contact the Activities Director, Rosie Forti, at (323) 878-2420 for more information. Note: There is space available to rent within the Oakwood for band rehearsals.

If you are not home, all US Postal Service and other delivery service packages will be delivered to the leasing office. All delivery services are responsible for notifying our guests for their deliveries.

All visitors must use the main entrance gate of the community and must be registered prior to arrival. All visitors must provide their name and apartment unit they are visiting. The security personnel will then provide registered visitors with a temporary visitors parking permit and directions to your apartment. To register your visitors, call 1.323.878.2199.

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CONFIRMATION NUMBERS, APARTMENT ADDRESS, MAILING

PACKAGES, PACKING, HEALTH INSURANCE & APARTMENT LAYOUTS: Your Apartment: Confirmation numbers, your apartment address and land line number will be emailed to you the

week of August 10th.

You may label boxes of personal belongings and ship to Oakwood prior to moving in.

Your label should read: Student Name

SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY LA SEMESTER PROGRAM c/o Oakwood Clubhouse - North

3600 Barham Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90068

Confirmation #: (To be sent to you after June 1st )

BE SURE TO LABEL EVERY BOX WITH YOUR NAME AND SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY!! PACKING: When you think about what to pack, please remember that you will be in LA during hot, cold and damp weather. Of course, you need nothing like the coats and gear you wear for Syracuse but LA is in the desert and even when the weather is quite hot during the day, if can fall off very quickly in evening. Some of you might be working on sets outdoors during the day or evening so do bring a warm jacket (generally a good peacoat is warm enough or a light down jacket). Also remember that everyone over air conditions offices, movie theatres, stores, etc. A shawl or scarf could help and can be pushed in a pocket when not needed. Don’t be like the tourists who wear next to nothing and shiver their way through the evenings. HEALTH INSURANCE: Please remember to check with your parents/guardians health insurance coverage in California. Make sure you have a card or membership number with you of your health plan and what you have to do if you seek medical care while in Los Angeles. The LA Semester website (Life @SULA / Wellness and Safety / Medical & Emergency Services) provides a list of urgent care and emergency rooms in the area but your plan might have participating doctors and clinics in California.

APARTMENT LAYOUTS: There are three different apartment layouts that the Oakwood offers. Unfortunately specific layout cannot be requested as assignment depends on availability. You will receive your apartment assignment a few days before move in. Each two-bedroom apartment has a desk in the living room, so there would be one for every four students to share. There is a dining room table in every apartment that provides them with additional potential workspace. The twin beds are regular sized; not extra-long. The beds do come with linens already made up. There is also a spare set for each bed available in the closets of both bedrooms. Towels are also provided – three sets per bathroom (6 sets per apartment). Pots, pans, dishes, glassware, and flatware are also included (see apartment list attached separately).

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Apartment Layouts:

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LIVING IN LOS ANGELES: “TO BRING OR NOT TO BRING” The Oakwood provides basic furniture and many other daily conveniences. SU has provided a basic kitchen package for its students. However there are additional items you will need to bring, or might want to have while you are studying in Los Angeles. Essentials: 1. SUID card – you will need it to access the SULA building for classes 2. Legal Photo Identification – ie: Driver’s License or Passport 3. Medical Insurance I.D. card 4. Prescription Medicines / Refills 5. Renter’s Insurance (see http://occs.syr.edu/off-campus-Life/moving-in-out/renters-insurance.html) Many parent policies provide coverage for students under 25 who are away at college. When checking with your insurance company, let them know this is an official SU off-campus program and that the Oakwood is our official student residence in LA. SU signs the master lease, and bills students through their bursar accounts for housing costs.

6. Mobile Phone. Landline telephone is provided as well as local service. Landline long distance service is available if secured with credit card 7. Personal expense money (e.g. travelers checks, ATM cards, checkbook) See also: Banking 8. Proof of Car Insurance and if renting a letter from your insurance company stating you have long term rental coverage. 9. Dress attire (Sports Jacket, dress shirt and nice slacks for guys / dress pants, skirt, blouse, dresses for girls. Incidentals:

Small personal use fan…..NOTE: all apartments are air conditioned.

Beach Towels / Pool Towels….NOTE: 6 sets of bath towels/hand towels/washcloths per apartment are provided.

Sunscreen

Bathing Suit

Water Bottle / Small cooler (for beach, poolside, or venues like Hollywood Bowl)

Backrest / Lap desk…NOTE: (one student desk per apartment is provided)

Hangers for the closet

Extension cord(s) / chargers

Posters/pictures

Memo board / Bulletin Board (for your door or wall)

Small desk lamp/light bulbs or Reading lamp

Stapler/staples/paper clips / paper / notebooks / pens / pencils / pencil holder / pencil sharpener / dictionary/thesaurus / Book bag / calculator/computer

Camera / batteries

Sports equipment (baseball and glove, basketball, football, tennis racket, frisbee)

Playing cards, games

Personal stereo or IPOD (headphones)

Movies

Umbrella (Note: it doesn’t rain often in LA, but spring is considered the rain season)

Hiking shoes / Water Shoes (for hiking or beach)

Sweater, light jacket and raincoat

Laundry basket / laundry essentials (washers are high efficiency and use HE detergent)/ $ for laundry facilities

Personal Toiletries: Shampoo/Conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap

Bathrobe, slippers, flip-flops

Hair dryer / Curling Iron / Flat Iron

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LIVING IN LOS ANGELES:

CAR AND PEDESTRIAN CULTURE

1) There is no relationship between time and distance

2) Rush hour is 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

3) Traffic becomes heavier after Labor Day.

4) Can use hands free cell phone system but ticket issued for texting and holding a phone

5) Blocking an intersection can result in an expensive ticket. This means that you should be

cautious about entering the intersection as you get ready for your left turn. Use Judgment:

Will you be able to make the turn before the signal turns red?

6) When entering an on-ramp, you merge by getting up to speed of traffic – do not wait or stop

for a break in traffic on the freeway. You will be rear-ended.

7) Do not honk unless absolutely necessary for safety. Then it’s a gentle tap of the horn. Also NO

rude hand gestures.

8) Do not drive around in the late night or early morning hours.

9) Avoid Highland and getting on or off the 101 at Highland from 4 p.m. to midnight due to

Hollywood Bowl traffic until the end of September.

10) Do not walk across the street on a red light even if there are no cars for miles away. Policemen

could be watching you. Walk only on a green light with a pedestrian symbol flashing. Use

crosswalks and do not expect cars to automatically stop. Jaywalking penalties are enforced and

fines can range from $75-$150. It is necessary to stop for pedestrians when you are driving a

car.

11) Never go thru a late yellow light. Some intersections have cameras (and some more than one

camera) and will take a photo of your license plate if you run the red light. Ticket is sent to you

automatically.

12) Be very mindful of cars changing lanes rapidly on the freeway particularly when exit lanes

merge with on ramp lanes.

13) Be aware that some drivers will actually speed up to prevent you from changing lanes on the

freeway even if you have signaled your intention.

14) Freeways generally have five (5) lanes of traffic in each

direction. Be aware that cars might attempt to merge

simultaneously from both your right and left.

15) Generally it is legal to make a right turn at a red light if the

way is clear. However, there may be signs prohibiting it at

certain times.

16) When you hear a siren, whether the emergency vehicle is coming in your direction or the

opposite direction, you must pull to the right.

17) Parking can be complicated. Read the signs several times before you leave the car. Very often,

parking permits are required.

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