On this week’s episode of Ferris In Focus, we discuss various segments, such as student life, local pets at the shelter, academic programs, and more.
Written by Jess Miller, Connor Kovacik, and Bryce Dysard
This week’s episode kicks off with Big Rapids Life, where we sit down with the Paris Park staff to learn more about the Paris Fishponds. These ponds are designed for the community, providing families and children with an opportunity to explore and learn about the aquatic wildlife they support. Officially opened as a public park in 1973, the Paris Fishponds continue to serve as a valuable educational and recreational space.
Since then, the staff has been working diligently to maintain the park’s structures. Recently, they faced a major challenge when the intake system on Pond Three collapsed due to a sinkhole. A few years ago, they also had to stabilize the raceway wall after erosion caused it to collapse. This ongoing erosion has reduced the number of ponds that can be filled and raised safety concerns, leading to the closure of certain areas.
To address these issues, the park plans to collaborate with Save the Ponds, a committee dedicated to raising funds for pond restoration and preservation. Through these efforts, they aim to reinforce and restore the park’s walls, ensuring its longevity for future generations.
This initiative will take place in phases. The first phase is split into two parts. Part A being to repair the raceway wall and Part B is to repair the south wall of Pond 3. If you would like to donate you can do so by going to ParisPonds.com or you can scan the QR Code in the image above. Every dollar counts.
Animals of the Arc
This episode features Cooper, a 10-month-old playful pup who loves his tennis ball. He adores people but doesn’t get along well with other animals. While he is not yet neutered, he is fully leash-trained and ready for his forever home.
If you or someone you know is interested in giving Cooper a loving home, please contact the Animal Rescue Coalition of Mecosta County at (231) 796-2683 or visit their website at ArcofMecostaCounty.com.
Design Program Spotlight
The Ferris State Design Program has been part of the College of Business for over 30 years, focusing on the practical application of design. Its goal is to provide students with a broad design education while offering the opportunities that a design degree can provide. By incorporating business principles, the program equips students with real-world skills that will benefit them after graduation.
Professors take a hands-on approach to teaching, bringing their passion for design and industry experience into student projects. During their junior year, students begin searching for internships. The program supports them by providing a list of internships completed by past graduates, serving as a valuable guide for where to start and what career paths they can pursue. Additionally, students develop 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year career plans to help shape their future goals.
College Kids Cars
We join Quinn as he explores Brennan Burns’ 2002 Lexus ES 300. This vehicle features a 3.0-liter V6 engine with 24 valves, producing over 200 horsepower and impressive torque.
The longest trip Brennan has taken in his Lexus was a 9-hour, 800-mile drive to Minnesota. Despite enduring Michigan’s harsh weather conditions, his car has never gotten stuck or required digging out. Looking ahead, Brennan plans to invest in new tires and stay on top of regular maintenance to keep his Lexus in top shape.
Memory Lane
Next, Jeremiah takes us down Memory Lane in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, reminiscing about some of his earliest experiences with the game when it was first released. One of his fondest memories is playing split-screen with his cousins and brother, where friendly competition quickly turned into sibling rivalry. He then shifts focus to the game’s campaign before giving a quick rundown of his least favorite maps—particularly Yemen, which he found frustrating due to its excessive number of corners that needed to be cleared. Jeremiah also discusses one of the DLC zombie maps set in the trenches of World War I, highlighting its infamous boss fight, which he considers one of the most frustrating in the game.
Ferris Asks
In the next segment, Ferris Asks takes to campus, gathering student and faculty opinions on the current state of U.S. politics. Many interviewees shared their perspectives, expressing concerns, hopes, and a desire for unity in an increasingly divided nation. Some encouraged optimism and collaboration to bridge societal gaps, while others chose not to weigh in, admitting they don’t closely follow politics.
Ferris Cineskit
To close out this episode of Ferris in Focus, we turn to Fair Warning, a Ferris Cineskit that follows Evan as he grapples with doubts about college. Struggling to keep up with his workload and feeling overwhelmed, he begins questioning whether higher education is the right path for him. Just when he feels lost, an unexpected guest appears, offering a fresh perspective on life and the power of self-reflection.
That wraps up this week’s episode of Ferris in Focus. Stay tuned for more stories, insights, and campus highlights in the next episode!