Cut-Throat Campus & the Culture of Stress
&
Staying Safe & Secure The Real Meaning of Food Labels A How-to for Tickets 28 THE BULLETIN -
- may 2016
ali mcqueen '18 & imani randolph '18 Editors-in-Chief amanda breen '17 Managing Editor
EVENTS DIRECTOR JUDY LIU '19 ALUMNAE RELATIONS DIRECTOR DEMME DURRETT '19
FEATURES EDITOR Emma Yee Yick '19 POLITICS & OPINION EDITOR jessica tschida '18 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR claudia levey '19
PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR claudia levey '19 PHOTOSHOOT DIRECTOR judy liu '19
NEW YORK CITY LIVING EDITOR katherine leak '19
ART DIRECTOR helen guo '17
HEALTH & STYLE EDITOR imani randolph '18
LAYOUT DIRECTOR anna li '19
Thank you to the ruth bayard smith '72 memorial fund for its support of the bulletin BARNARD BULLETIN 3009 Broadway New York, NY 10027 TheBarnardBulletin..Com LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Follow us on instagram:
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2 - november 2016
A Letter from the Editors
L
et’s dub this issue IYRTMAO: If You’re Reading This, Midterms Are Over, (thank you for the inspo, Drake). Congrats everyone - you made it! Exam season is a trying time, so we commend you all for sticking through it. Take a deep breath, pull up a Netflix tab, and give yourself a while to relax before the next round hits.
Although we have passed this semester’s midpoint, we at The Bulletin still feel it’s important to recognize the prevalent and harmful stress culture that exists on campus throughout and even far beyond the span of midterms. This issue’s centerpiece, “Cut-Throat Campus”, works to unpack this anxiety-arousing phenomenon that is ingrained in both our college as well as our greater university environment. We hope that this article provides awareness, as well as provokes reflection -- nonetheless, we also hope this month’s mag will bring you laughter and inspire self care; be sure to check out pieces like “Love Actually: Cuffing Season” and “Boosted” for a touch of both! Be well, Ali & Imani
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3 // Letter from the Editors 5 // Behind the Scenes 6 // Trending & Playlist
Health & Style 8 // 00 revival 9 // badass boots 10 // staying safe & secure 11 // boosted 12 // healing sounds
Features 13 // in her words: invisible disabilities 14 // love, actually: cuffing season 16 // reasons i'm thankful to be a barnard student 17 // lesser known libraries 18 // centerpiece: cut throat campus 22 // cold weather cures
Politics & Opinion 23 // she said, she said 24 // pipeline protest 32 // the real meaning of food labels
Arts & Entertainment 26 // gallery galavanting 27 // what we're binge watching 28 // snl election coverage
New York City Living 29 // barnard in the outer boroughs 30 // bites outside the bubble 31 // top 5 little known thrift stores 32 // deals for meals 33 // a how to for tickets
ehind he cenes Model Elaine paredes Photography: claudia levey Art Direction: judy liu
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Elizabeth and James Nirvana
Mile High Run Club the newest alternative to soulcycle, this cardio heavy class will leave you dripping in sweat and astonished at the distance you just ran in 40 minutes.
Fishnets they work as anything from tights to tops.
Adidas Gazelles these revival kicks are the perfect replacement for last season's stan smiths.
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VERB Hair Products
Taiyaki Ice Cream Cones it's never too cold for ice cream, especially when it's this adorable.
NewTop Jewelry this voge featured gold emporium specializes in 'gram worthy, custom pendants and rings
1.
say it (clean bandit remix)
4.
cash machine d.r.a.m.
flume, tove lo
2. ophelia
5.
starboy the weeknd
the lumineers
3.
6.
8 (circle)
fake love drake
bon iver
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H&S '00 REVIVAL LAVIVER 00' by Lilly Kallman
A
namllaK ylliL yb
pple releasing the first iPod, Mark Zuckerberg launching Facebook, and NSYNC splitting up are remembered as defining moments of the 2000s. Nonetheless, these milestones should not overshadow the fashion feats of this decade; the 00s were no stranger to fishnets and rhinestones. Now, fast forward to 2016 and we’ve come full circle. Many of you may be wondering which trends deserve a revival and which should stay buried in the depths of our closets. Worry no longer, here’s your guide:
Denim
perfectly distressed. Pro tip: go a size up to leave room for layering! Jeans themselves will never go out of style. Skinny jeans are the most common variation, but do not be afraid to test the waters with some other cuts. Flare jeans and boot cut were huge during the early 2000s and they seem to be making a comeback. Keep an eye out for dark jeans of a flattering wide cut and pair them with heeled boots for a killer autumnal look.
Anyone who lived through the 2000s undoubtedly remembers Juicy Couture’s trademark velour sweatsuits. Such ensembles were the coveted birthday gift of every teenager, as celebs like Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian sported them daily. Bedazzled, candy colored suits made for a put together look that was also practical. When Juicy announced that it would close its US stores in 2014, it looked like velour sweatsuits were being retired for good. Fear not, for Juicy still sells its products online and in Kohl’s stores. With athleisure climbing the trend ladder, now is the time to take advantage of your favorite childhood obsession. Kanye has recently been spotted wearing velour ensembles, while it seems that Kim never got rid of hers. The fabric is finding
Britney and Justin’s denim-on-denim ensemble at the 2001 AMA’s will live on forever as the most infamous couple look. Nonetheless, we must admit, their coordination was the epitome of this fashion craze during the early 2000s. Although this combination is unimaginable today (unless it’s a halloween costume), denim in general has consistently been in style. Jean jackets are in high demand as we enter the colder months. One can’t go wrong with black jeans, a monochrome top, and a denim jacket of almost any wash. For a less casual look, pair this jacket with a dress or a stylish jumpsuit. Scavenge through a thrift store or two and you are guaranteed to find a jacket that is
Tinted Sunglasses
With the influx of photo editing and sharing apps (Instagram, Snapchat, VSCO), life is often portrayed through a filtered lens. The resurgence of tinted sunglasses provides fashionistas with a more colorful perspective on life. They come in a variety of shapes and shades, ranging from classic aviators to round lenses and from light rose to a blue tint. Luckily, paying big bucks for the most upscale brands is not necessary if you want to score a pair. Online accessory shops, such as ASOS and Aldo, offer sunnies at reasonable price points. Although summer is over, Beyoncé and Rihanna are still rocking tinted shades and so can you.
Although these 2000s trends have returned to relevance, let us be clear: others should stay in the past. Avoid wearing dresses over jeans or belts any wider than a couple of inches, and please, steer clear of fedoras. That aside, try to experiment with your wardrobe this fall. Throwback pieces can be the perfect twist to a basic outfit. THE BULLETIN -
8 - november 2016
Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page
Velour
its way into other lines this fall, as Drake’s OVO apparel features cozy-boy inspired t-shirts and pants. This fall, pay homage to your middle school self by rocking velour better than you could have a decade ago.
BADASS Boots A
by Ali McQueen s the cold weather hits and you begin to pull out sweaters and leggings, you may find yourself in a panic. Why? Because the question of this season’s best boot is still up in the air. Last year, the suede over-the-knee was all the rage, but your shoe rack deserves an update this Fall. Ranging from leather to suede, and ankle to over-the-knee, there seem to be endless options, so, we’ve rounded up the top picks for every look and occasion coming up this season.
The
CASUAL Bootie
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For those days when you can’t bother putting in much effort, this casual bootie is the perfect fit for anything that you might throw on. These shoes are key because of their neutral color, relaxed ankle, and barely-there heel. This pair from Sole Society ($89.95) features some fun distressed detailing and just the right amount of color, (much more interesting than your average taupe or black), while still managing a relaxed look. From jeans to skirts to leggings, a bootie like this won’t call too much attention to itself but, will simultaneously pull your whole outfit together.
The
GOING OUT Boot The
If you are still loving those suede babies from last season, don’t fear – Fall 2016 has brought you an update. They’ve come back better, taller, and they’ll make your legs look even longer. It’s last season’s favorite boot, but updated by a major heel. Keep rocking these boots into the Winter and they are guaranteed to keep you cozy on those nights that you want to hit the club in a short skirt or dress. Even if you only make it to the Heights, you can rest easy knowing that everyone was admiring these boots (and you) as you made it up the many, many stairs. (Steve Madden, $99)
The
GROWN UP
RAINY DAYBootie
This is the trendier, chicer cousin of your basic Hunter boots. These Chelsea-style rain booties are fashionable, practical, and really quite nicely priced. Putting on these babies will keep you looking chic even on the gloomiest and grossest of days. These ones are from Jeffrey Campbell ($55) but many brands are making their own, similar versions if you are looking for fun color alternatives.
The
RULE THE WORLD Bootie
Donning this shoe should make you feel invincible. From the stomping of the heel that signals your approach, to the chic, monochrome color that makes you feel a little extra dressed up, gaining a few inches on your classmates, (or finally reaching their height), can give you the power to take on the day. (Marc Fisher LTD, $189.95)
Boot
This is the shoe that you like because it’s stylish, goes with everything, and fools your mother into thinking you are a real, serious adult. This Sam Edelman ($160) pick is more sophisticated than your average bootie, demonstrated by its semi-pointed toe and its above-ankle height. However, it also has a slight 70s vibe, making your swanky dinner, class, and business-professional outfits a bit more trendy.
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Staying Safe & Secure
The pill (hormonal):
While many see “the pill” as a single contraceptive, there are two different types: combination and progestin-only. Combination pills contain estrogen and progestin (the synthetic form of progesterone). They can decrease PMS and are reversible - you can become pregnant right after stopping. Progestin-only pills work much the same
way as combination pills, but may cause changes in hair, skin, and sex drive. When choosing between the two types of pills, Mary Joan advises thinking about your own body: “Some people have a negative reaction to the estrogen, which may cause depression. If you have migraines, it’s not recommended that you take extra estrogen because that can increase your chance of migraines.”
IUD (hormonal):
The three types of hormonal IUDs are Mirena (which contains estrogen and progestin), Liletta, and Skyla (both progestin-only). IUDs are placed in the uterus by a doctor and, while reversible, can remain for a significant duration: 7 years for Mirena, 3 years for Skyla and Lileta. Mary Joan cites hormonal IUDs as the most effective form of birth control, as “they’re inserted into the body, they last a long time, and the level of hormone is constant. There’s no real effective human error. With the pill, for example, people can forget to take the pill, so that decreases its efficacy.”
NuvaRing (hormonal):
Inserted into the vagina monthly, the ring contains estrogen and progestin and has benefits such as regular periods and reversibility. According to Mary Joan, the main difference between all hormonal methods, including the ring, is “how they’re getting into the woman’s body, meaning is it through the skin, is it ingested, is it digested or is it placed,” a factor to THE BULLETIN -
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consider when making a choice between methods, especially those which release the same hormones.
Copper IUD (non-hormonal): This IUD kills sperm rather
than preventing ovulation and lasts longer than the hormonal IUDs. However, it is not a popular method among students at Barnard because “most students don’t want it for 10-12 years, and there’s a lot of bleeding with the copper IUD.” Thus, it is not available at the Health Center.
Female and male condoms (non-hormonal):
Male and female condoms trap sperm before it reaches the uterus. According to Mary Joan, these types are “both disposable, and they’re both a one-time-use only.” However, “the female condom is not very popular, because it is difficult to insert.” Both condoms can protect against some STIs up to 98%, accounting for human error “that’s why it’s not 100%.” If only.
Illustration by Mickey Warshaw
C
ollege students want to be prepared for everything: we buy color-coordinated binders, survivalist-style containers of Easy Mac, and at least three packs of highlighters. Hey, the last thing anyone wants is to run their neon marker dry amidst finals and be faced with a sea of deadly-silent students using all of their highlighters at once, taunting you with a rainbow of readiness. Better safe than sorry. This is a principle that also applies to sexual activity. Pregnancy can be a potentially undesirable outcome and the more we know about birth control options, the more prepared we’ll be. Contraception can be divided into two types: hormonal, methods which use estrogen and progesterone to trick the body out of ovulation, and non-hormonal, which work externally and can protect against some STIs. I spoke to Mary Joan Murphy, Executive Director of Barnard’s Student Health & Wellness Programs, about the most popular types of birth control at Barnard and some lesser-known forms (bear in mind that this is by no means a comprehensive list). I also bought a new pack of highlighters, just because.
by Nicole Blackwood
BOOSTED Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page
by Sophie Kreitzberg
A
h, coffee — we love it, we hate it, and we are all lying to ourselves when we say we’re planning to quit the daily morning ritual… tomorrow. While there are certainly benefits to drinking this glorified bean water at the start of every day, (and another cup in the afternoon, plus after dinner, before you start on that 100-page reading, and all through the night as you cram for midterms), just about every coffee devotee has heard, and felt, the consequences. Insomnia, jitters, headaches, nervousness, and withdrawal sound familiar? Regardless, for all of us caffeine addicts out there, there seems to be nothing that can compare to our godsent, energy-boosting liquid. So, even if we’re not quite ready to give it up completely, here are a few alternatives for when you’ve just gotta get that jumpstart.
1
coffee, and we’re not claiming it will be. However, this particular concoction is a great replacement for the “ritual” aspect of coffee and can actually be a refreshing substitute to incorporate into your daily routine. The zing from the lemon wakes you up just enough, while the warmth and sweetness of the honey has a delightfully soothing effect.
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4
Watch an argument unfold in the comments section of Overheard @ Barnard.
Pop some fresh fruit and dark chocolate. Okay, but seriously: Is there anything
Keeping some grab-and-go snacks handy for a long study sesh is a must, and this combo is sure to get the job done. Plus, dark chocolate contains a little bit of caffeine, so having a few nibs of it here and there makes for a convenient late-night study companion.
3
Place a folded towel or blanket underneath your pelvis to elevate it slightly, push your butt as close to the wall as possible, and extend your legs toward the ceiling. Hang out there for a few minutes, take some deep breaths, and find that inner peace.
more exhilarating and heart-pumping than grabbing some popcorn and watching a good, old-fashioned internet showdown?
5
Turn the shower faucet to cold instead of hot.
No, really, if mornings are your
Try a “legs up the wall” yoga problem, this trick is your solution. The pose. first minute and a half of showering in
Make yourself a mug full of If you’re able to try this simple hot water, lemon juice, and inversion, it can be an excellent way to re- freezing cold water is a pain, but as your body acclimates and you begin breathing honey. center yourself when you’re feeling like more regularly again, you’ll feel a greater
True, true — this is nothing at all like
your battery is on low or extra stressed. THE BULLETIN -
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sense of calm and clear-headedness than
Healing Sounds J
by Nectar Knuckles
ust last month, our campus had the amazing privilege of hosting Shaun King, civil rights activist, to discuss police brutality, the prison industrial complex, and ways to improve humanity. During the conversation, an audience member asked how black people can promote self-care and console one another while simultaneously staying informed about the ceaseless traumatic incidents that occur. The topic of music arose. Hip-hop has historically been a means through which the Black community has spoken not only to outsiders, but also to one another. The recent releases of Solange Knowles’s A Seat at the Table, Noname’s Telefone, and Jamila Woods’s HEAVN have provided us with beautiful reminders that Black people are present, visible, and matter. These women have created sounds that are immensely comforting, during a time in which discomfort is so forcibly present within black and brown bodies.
Solange’s Billboard-topping al-
bum, A Seat at the Table, situates the listener in a space that is intended for healing and self-empowerment. The opening track, “Rise,” features Solange beautifully repeating “fall in your ways, so you can crumble/ fall in your ways, so you can sleep at night/ fall in your ways so you can wake up and rise,” encouraging her audience to find strength any way that they can. In “Mad,” Solange and Lil Wayne validate the anger that is prevalent within black and brown communities, while also asking “where’d your love go?” to remind them that anger alone will not nurture progression. Solange’s comforting words encourage the idea that at some point, through finding love and safe spaces amongst the struggle, everyone, in their own way, will reach that final destination.
a Chicago-based rapper, lays everything out on the table that Solange has invited us to with her project Telefone. This album is deeply intimate and raw in a way that seems effortless; the ease in which Noname shares moments that are inherently personal is mesmerising. In “Forever (feat. Joseph Chilliams & Ravyn Lenae),” we hear “they ain’t tryna see us shine, shine / bullet on our time, our time / but f*ck it, we’ll live forever.” These lyrics capture how transcendental the existence of black people truly is. Though this existence is constantly threatened through police brutality and systemic oppression, comfort can be found in knowing that the legacy of black accomplishments will live on. The works of Audre Lorde and Nina Simone do not escape us, nor will that of Toni Morrison, Patrisse Cullors, Opal Tometi, and Alicia Garza. Listening to Telefone is an incredibly satisfying experience; the arrangements of beats and voices that Noname has produced are soothing, highlighting the peace that is found in attempts to make your heavy heart light.
Jamila Woods, another
artist based in Chicago, has created something hypnotising and uplifting with her album HEAVN. Jamila’s voice is strong and encouraging, demonstrated in “LSD,” a tribute to Chicago. She sings “I won’t let you criticise my city like my skin / it’s so pretty, if you don’t like it just leave it alone.” Jamila emphasises that black truly is beautiful, also exemplified in her songs “Emerald St.” and “Holy,” which is why self-love and uplifting her community stand at the forefront of this project.
It is not difficult to grow weary of the world, but music helps to revitalize us. Perhaps black freedom means doing what will give you energy, and music has always been a source for providing this. Solange, Noname, and Jamila Woods have presented us with plenty of energy to harness and for that, freedom and healing in the black community shall come. THE BULLETIN -
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Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page
Noname,
features
In Her Words: Invisible Disabilities By Lizbeth Abott & Maria Antonella
I
Illustration by Helen Guo
nvisible disability is a term that covers any type of illness/disability that is not necessarily obvious to observers, but impacts a person in varying degrees. I have invisible disabilities; specifically, dyslexia and anxiety disorder. Just because I struggle with invisible disabilities does not mean I am undeserving to attend this institution. Dyslexia is a disorder that impacts a person’s ability to read; this definition is broad and leads to many misconceptions. Dyslexia impacts people in a plethora of ways; one of the more common ones is that reading becomes difficult. For me, dyslexia impacts my processing speed, meaning that I need a little more time to process what someone is saying than the average person. In the learning environment, I have a difficult time keeping up with the professors if they are lecturing exclusively by talking and not writing highlights on the board, especially if they talk quickly. In the year that I have attended Barnard, I have met and become friends with supportive people who either have similar challenges or do not treat me differently because of my dyslexia. However, I have also encountered people who do treat me differently, like I am weird or less deserving to be here than they are. People often give me strange or angry looks whenever I use my laptop to
take notes in a class where a professor has banned laptops for everyone except students who have specific accommodations (I am one of those students). I often find myself on the receiving end of an annoyed or dirty look after I ask the person to repeat what they’ve said and they think I’m not paying attention. Just so you know, I do notice. It makes me feel like I’m stupid or being difficult, even when I know I’m not.
Such thoughts stem from anxiety disorder, which is something that I constantly struggle with. Anxiety impacts my daily life; negative thoughts, almost like a different person inside my head, tell me that I am inadequate compared to my immensely talented peers at Barnard. Anxiety also impacts me in the form of panic. Whenever something does not go according to plan, I become jittery and tense, and my breathing is labored. This is when THE BULLETIN -
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people notice my anxiety; people tell me to calm down, that I’m making them nervous. If no one confronts me, they convey their annoyance in glares and strange looks. While I am sorry that I make people nervous, I cannot control my anxiety when it gets to the point that it is visible. Such comments or nasty looks make me feel like a freak on better days, and an insane person on worse days. While I know I am not either of those things, my anxiety makes me believe it sometimes. Over the years, I have developed various coping strategies, but two of them work consistently. Whenever something impactful happens, I write about it in my diary; that way, I can read it afterwards and see that my anxiety has blown the situation out of proportion. Whenever I feel the beginning stages of a panic attack, I do a few yoga poses, including child’s pose, and play instrumental music on my laptop; after 15-30 minutes, I am able to breathe normally again. So please think twice before you shoot dirty looks at or say something rude to someone who is using their laptop in a notebook-only class, or riding the elevator from the first to the second floor, or someone who has nervous energy. You have no idea what they are dealing with internally.
Love Actually:
Cuffing Season Illustration by Alice Rowland
By Claudia Levey
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W
e all know one: that friend who always has a boyfriend or girlfriend or long-term hook-up person. We all know one and we all love to hate her. The endless posts on Facebook and Instagram that read “one month with my best friend!” or “happy two months to this cutie!” or “thanks for three amazing months!” are enough to drive anyone insane. Pictures at beaches, pictures at music festivals, pictures by the pool. They buzz around social media like mosquitoes on a hot day. As the seasons change and the air grows colder, we continue to resentfully scroll through their pictures. Pictures of them picking apples, pictures drinking hot chocolate together, pictures in the snow. We can’t help but notice the empty space next to us as we watch Netflix on our own. Our hands are cold as they walk, un-held, down to Butler Cafe on their way to pick up coffee. Suddenly, the idea of wearing our own sweatshirts instead of someone else’s while lounging around saddens us like it never has before. If this sounds a little too familiar, don’t worry. Blame it on the weather. Not everyone’s heard of Cuffing Season, but everyone’s felt it. Like how birds, notified by their subconscious every November, know that it’s time to fly
South, so do single women flock to coffee shops and used book stores and other rom-com-esque settings in the hope of finding the person of their dreams. It’s an instinct that scientists say goes back to the Stone Age (don’t fact check that), when the cavewomen would snuggle up alone under their Woolly Mammoth blankets, yearning for someone with whom to Hunt, Gather, & Chill. To put it into more exact terms, Cuffing Season describes the phenomenon that happens in the winter, when single women get the urge to be “cuffed,” or to get into an official relationship. Despite the weird, possessive implications of the name, Cuffing Season really just means what I’ve described above. While June and July are the perfect time for a “fun summer fling,” the arrival of the colder months stirs up the need in a lot of people to find a steadier significant other. Winter makes people lonely, and it’s super hard to look cute in a winter coat, so attracting a new date is more difficult than ever. All the more reason to snag one and cuff him or her before the leaves change. As I write this article, and Cuffing Season quickly approaches, I, too, find myself wishing for the same thing. Let me tell you, I’m not a relationship gal, but Cuffing Season hits me like a ton of
bricks late every October. I spend every November trying to crawl my way out of the allegorical rubble, possibly with the hopes of using those bricks to build myself a man who will actually want to commit to something, and every December I find myself giving in to the idea that maybe we’re not all meant to be cuffed. Conclusion: Cuffing Season is frickin’ dumb. Don’t get me wrong, relationships are great if you can find one, but the notion of a specific season for cuffing puts an incredible amount of pressure on us all. This pressure to find a boyfriend or girlfriend before we all turn into shivering, antisocial, flu-ridden, grumpy, winter women is frankly unnecessary. The truth is that you don’t need romance to get through these cold, dark months (and I’m not just saying that because I’m thoroughly single). Make yourself that fancy dinner. Buy some gloves to keep those hands warm. Call a friend to come watch The Notebook with you as the snow piles up on your windowsill. As cliché as it sounds, relationships really do come as soon as you stop looking for them. Don’t worry about the pressures of Cuffing Season. And to anyone who calls this approach lame, or judges us for embracing our single lives, I have only three words for you:
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Why I’m Proud to be a Barnard Student
A
s the holiday season rolls around and festivity fills the air, it’s important to reflect upon everything we have to be thankful for. Although there are endless reasons why I’m proud to be a Barnard student, here are just a few: 1. The community at Barnard is unlike anything else in the world. I have never felt a more supportive group of individuals who care so deeply for one another. There are definitely feelings each campus has to offer, and here, this feeling is home. Barnard stresses for self-care and provides various resources, one being Well Women, to ensure that students have a place to go and destress if life ever gets too much. 2. Nestled right in Morningside Heights, Barnard’s campus may be a mere four acres, but it’s a treat to wake up and come back to daily. While many students choose to take classes across the street at Columbia, it’s always a sigh of relief to return back to Barnard in the evening. With the amazing faculty and staff who help push students to strive higher and dig deeper, the support network creates a unshatterable foundation and stepping stones to success.
Illustration by Helen Guo
3. The education is something that shouldn’t be undermined. President Spar
By Erin Lee spoke repeatedly to the Class of 2020 about the rigorous courses that would be in their futures. Barnard understands that women’s leadership is crucial and should be celebrated. Through programs like the Athena Scholars Program and Fellowship Programs, these opportunities help to foster leadership skills to help students achieve their career goals and aspirations. 4. We are all majoring in unafraid. There is so much willingness to engage with one another in thoughtful conversation. There’s excitability in the prospects of getting to know one another and exploring similarities and differences. Everyone is willing and excited to speak passionately about the topics they are invested in, while also knowing when to step back and listen. There’s a mutual balance of respect that resonates through all the students. 5. Barnard pride is undeniable. You can’t attend a women’s college without feeling empowered about your own sexuality. Being in a place that fosters and allows women to grow helps build the confidence it helps to succeed. Everyone is so beautiful and impactful; the concept of “catty” is pretty much nonexistent. 6. When I had first stepped foot on campus, it was during the April overnight weekend for admitted students. At an
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alumni dinner the college hosted, the alumni who sat at my table were so excited for us to have a chance to attend Barnard. “Here’s my business card” and “Call whenever to grab lunch!” were two frequent phrases that came up during that time. I realized these kinds of relationships are what Barnard is all about making. 7. On top of everything else that I love about Barnard, everyone struts her own style. No one is dressing to impress anyone, and everyone sports a style that they love and feel comfortable. 8. Above anything and everything else, the friendships you make here will be friendships to be cherished forever. The relationships you make at this college will be the same individuals stepping those big milestones with you. Sometimes, we lose track of how much we do have to be thankful for in all the chaos of school and social life. At Barnard, we truly get the best of both worlds. We can rest easy knowing that the school advocates for strong women. Students at Barnard are driven and passionate in any of their endeavors, and however Barnard students choose to identify themselves, we are all proud to be here.
Lesser Known Libraries It’s true that not every library on campus was built with the same intention in mind.While Butler or Lefrak are the best-known choices for the ever-studying Barnard woman, they tend to fill up quickly during peak study hours. However, Columbia University has in total 17 libraries to take advantage of—each with its own quirks and charms. Here are five to check out. Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page
By Kathleen Drake
NOCO (SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING LIBRARY)
9:00 AM-11:00 PM Tucked in the Northwest Corner Building (where it gets its nick-
name) the Science and Engineering Library is best for intensely focused, individual studying for exams. A welcome change from other places on campus , the library is flooded with natural light and is primarily table and individual cubby space. Additional draws to the library include: cushioned office chairs, extensive outlets, and Joe’s Coffee conveniently downstairs.
AVERY LIBRARY
9:00 AM-11:00 PM Due to the many small tables and less stressed environment than Butler, Avery provides the homey university library feel without the claustrophobic cramming of students desperate to get any seat. Avery is ideal for group work and studying late into the hours of the night without the stress of Butler. The lower level is ideal for individual work, packed with cubicles. Additionally, Brownies, a wonderful coffee shop, is housed in the basement, and is perfect for a study break.
EAST ASIAN LIBRARY 9:00 AM-11:00 PM The ideal daytime study space, it’s easy to quickly find a seat
in the main row of tables in the East Asian Lzibrary. While it is a focused environment, the East Asian Library doesn’t have the intensity of Butler, making it perfect for doing daily homework. The upper level study areas have excellent views into the library, and are quaintly tucked into the stacks of books. However, as it’s a smaller library than most, it’s smart to get there early to grab a seat.
LEHMAN LIBRARY (SIPA)
9:00 AM-12:00 AM Found in the 3rd floor of the School of International and Public
Affairs, Lehman is excellent for setting aside a large chunk of time and commit to not moving from the library chair for hours. Unlike on Butler’s 3rd floor, in Lehman there isn’t that irritating neighbor who keeps rustling papers and pitifully attempting to sneakeat from their bag. When walking out of the library, one can only feel satisfied with their library studies as they descend the spiral staircase and exit onto East Campus, ready to make the trek home.
MUSIC AND ARTS LIBRARY
9:00 AM-9:00 PM Found on the 8th floor of Dodge, the Music and Arts library is usually relatively empty and flooded with light. As a library that houses the university’s musical scores, silence is counterproductive to the library’s mission, making it ideal for working on group projects. Furthermore, the Music and Arts Library is the closest library to Barnard after Barnard’s own Lefrak!
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Cut-Throat & the Culture of Campus Stress
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by Faith Amenn
“How are you?” W
ell, it’s a loaded question, and the honest answer exceeds the character limit of a coffee-line pleasantry. The honest answer isn’t easily shared while waiting for a stall in a Hamilton bathroom or pleading with a printer for your essay’s final page. The honest answer is more nuanced than “good” and a shrug. It’s a serialized, tragicomic story. And if it’d been written by Dickens, there might be time to study it. But there’s rarely time for stories whose value hasn’t already been decided by scholars or described in winding-road run-ons. For students at Barnard and Columbia, particularly in the fall, life often feels recreational, and the parameters of the world are drawn by the 1 line. The schools are institutions, the classes networks, and anxiety echoes in otherwise
quiet libraries. On campus, “stress” can sound like a buzzword -- it’s a useful but pathetic icebreaker, an obvious checkmark on Family Feud. It’s overheard in every dining hall and Subway car, and it’d be devoid of all meaning if it weren’t so deeply felt. Stress, in its many forms, begins to feel like an inevitability included with room and board. We tell ourselves that it’s a part of the experience, just as research libraries, local museums, and Tom’s Diner were promised to be. Stress becomes the scale by which we measure our commitment to education -- if an alarm rings after only four hours of sleep or you watch the day pass through the library windows, you assume that you are learning correctly. As disappointing as it is to RSVP “no” to a party, it’s an odd point of pride to be THE BULLETIN -
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“too busy.” It means you’re someone doing something -- a something that would shine in the Times New Roman of your cover letter. It means that you’ve made the most of your family’s many sacrifices, and that you’re one exam closer to rewarding them with a house. (“One day,” “eventually,” “next week”: the tense is future, always, and these words are your most frequently used. Fortunes, horoscopes, and people who don’t know you very well at all will tell you to “live in the now.” Rent is high in the now.) But there’s more involved in “too busy” than one person’s planner or personality type: in most cases, “too busy” is the product of a student’s environment; the Butler hunchback seems so universal “that it becomes almost shameful to dial it back,” says Cary Chapman, BC’18.
"I don't even feel like I have the time to do laundry or eat a real meal, let alone reflect on my non-career goals and emotional development as a human being,"
Model // Elaine Paredes Photography // Claudia Levey Art Direction // Judy Liu
she added. The mentality is not uncommon among students: in October, the sit-down Hewitt meal is a luxury, and at desks in the LeFrak Center, you’ll find students who have gotten their lunches from vending machines. (I count myself as one of them: between classes, I’ll stop at the Diana Center for a Diet Coke and a YoCrunch, brush shoulders with a couple of friends, and run to the library. Efficient, not ideal.) The start of exam season -- signaled by flips of a calendar and a wrinkly syllabus -- spurs this sudden change in student lifestyle, so it’s not surprising that some people might dismiss it as temporary and ultimately harmless. But this behavior is not a blip on the Morningside radar. It’s a mindset for all seasons, pervasive in every season and department. For many students, its presence mandates an
occasional break from the usual scenery -- I know from experience that the morning commute from Queens to Barnard has an unexpected healing power, a phrase I’d never associated with the MTA before this year. It’s given me time to be myself and the freedom to think about the non-academic life I abandon when the train stops. I am able, for 30-40 minutes at a time, to cultivate who I want to be. For similar reasons, Sarah Tisch, BC’17, leaves campus when necessary and travels up to her home in Westchester; she believes that the creation of physical distance from the Upper West Side is her healthiest and most successful coping mechanism. “I love work, like a 9-5 job,” Tisch explains. “Something that occasionally I’ll have to stay late for…but ultimately I can leave at the office.” The regular proximity to a central source of THE BULLETIN -
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stress can prove taxing for students who live in campus housing: personal and academic lives easily intersect when the dorm building you call home is less than a block from your chilly exam room. Tisch elaborates, “I don’t think being on a college campus, where I’m met with [the sight of school] right out my window the second I wake up is conducive to my being my best self...I think there needs to be a separation.” Adulthood, after all, is what we’re working for: one of few terms that we cannot define in a classroom or at a desk, spaces meant to be the launching pad of a student’s life -- not the setting of it. Our intellectual radius is far broader than four legs, four walls, and a couple of blocks. We can’t prove the worth of our education in essays - we prove it in action.
Cold Weather Cures: How to Survive the Dropping of Temperatures
BY Eden Gordon
1. Get in the Winter Spirit
Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, something else, or none of the above, there’s something uplifting about the buzz of November and December - if you allow there to be. Silence your inner Grinch for a moment and take some time to appreciate the spirit of kindness and giving that is supposed to be at the heart of this season. Go to the holiday tree lighting ceremony on College Walk. Pump some holiday tunes (Sufjan Stevens’ three Christmas albums are highly recommended). Take a night to volunteer, visit the tree at Rockefeller Center and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, or see the shops at Saks 5th Avenue. Go to an experimental Christmas metal concert in Bushwick. Bury yourself in an oversized sweater, crawl under the covers, and watch the
smoke from your cup of tea swirl up towards the grey sky as you Google photos of baby reindeer. Whatever you do, don’t deprive yourself of the opportunity to appreciate the festivities.
2. Invest in Health Remedies
A few well-timed herbal remedies can go a long way. Check out Twinings’ Cold and Flu Season tea, or in case of an emergency, hit up a Juice Generation and purchase one of their criminally overpriced but effective smoothies with a ‘Defense’ shot in it. Make sure to always be drinking enough water (unfortunately, tea and coffee don’t count as hydration) - carry a reusable water bottle with you and try to fill it up before and after class. Oranges and citrus fruits are also said to be immune system boosters, as well as zinc and echinacea. Finally, listen to your inner mom, and wash your hands.
3. Prioritize Mental Health
Most of us know that at Barnard and Columbia there is a culture that glamorizes sleeplessness and stress. This isn’t going to go away on its own, but it is possible to take small steps to combat these things. At the very least it is important to realize that all those sleepless nights will mean nothing if you fall sick on exam day, or if you aren’t taking the time to recognize your mental health. If the
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cold weather has got you down, check out light-therapy lamps, which can be of real help in combating seasonal affective disorder. Attend a Well Woman workshop or sign up for a session at Furman Counseling Center, and realize that you don’t have to get through these months alone. More people than you realize are struggling, and more people than you realize are there to help.
4. Practice Self-Care
Little acts of self-care can go a long way. Audre Lorde said, “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” Whether that means cleaning your room, doing your laundry, buying new lotion, or embarking on a transcendental meditation regimen, don’t forget to set aside time for yourself. Check in with yourself and others from time to time, and give yourself a break, especially as midterms dissolve into finals. Remember that you are more than your grades (if that doesn’t work, remember that grades have less to do with your future than the culture surrounding them would have us think); and that sleep can be of more help than any number of all-nighters. Recognize that burnout might happen, and try to forgive yourself for it.
Illustration by Mickey Warshaw
A
s the cold creeps in, many students resign themselves to months defined by early sunrises, red noses, and constant trips to Duane Reade to buy new tissue boxes and DayQuil. Winter in New York has mercy on no one and although during this season especially we’d probably like to follow in the footsteps of our mascot, Millie, and hibernate until May, we’re unfortunately not bears and all have to get up to face the frost. Luckily, there are many ways to keep your health and spirits warm in the face of the cold.
Enjoy the season and stay warm!
t n
She Said/She Said
P&O
The Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act
C
by Xonatia Lee
ongress has passed the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA) legislation, which gives 9/11 victims and families the right to sue any member of the Saudi Arabian government in U.S. courts for abetting the terrorists in the 9/11 attacks. It also thwarts the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA), which puts a limit on lawsuits suing a foreign government. JASTA gives victims of terrorism a fair trial and compensation for their losses and also creates a reason for government employees in other countries to act more cautiously. The ability to have a fair trial and compensation for the aftermath of 9/11 is a principle that Congress is trying to uphold. According to CNN, the plaintiffs have to prove that Saudi Arabia was directly responsible for the 9/11 attacks. JASTA gives victims of terrorism the chance to seek justice and hold the people responsible accountable for their actions. However, according to The Atlantic, critics of this legislation fear that the bill would make American government personnel and service members vulnerable to lawsuits overseas. While this is a possibility, the American government and all other government should always be cautious of what they do while abroad. Every country inspects and evaluates decisions by other countries and voices their opinion when they find something to be deplorable. With legislation like JASTA, other governments might take greater care to evaluate their decisions before taking action. Ultimately, the right to a fair trial and compensation for victims of terrorism is more important than the protection of sovereign immunity for foreign nations. It is fair to seek justice for the victims of 9/11, and JASTA could make every government employee carefully think about their actions while in another country.
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THE BULďż˝
by Sarah Hameed
CON
n 1976, President Gerald Ford passed the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act, which grants foreign countries broad immunity from U.S. civil lawsuits or criminal prosecution. In September 2016, Congress overruled a presidential veto to enact the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA), narrowing the scope of sovereign immunity and irrevocably damaging ties between the U.S. and other countries. JASTA grants families of 9/11 victims the right to sue the government of Saudi Arabia for its alleged role in the attacks, because 15 of the 19 hijackers were Saudi Arabian citizens. However, the American commission that investigated the attacks found no evidence that the Saudi government or senior Saudi officials financed or sponsored the terrorists. Nevertheless, because of this bill’s passage, civilians bringing entire nations to court sets a dangerous precedent for other countries to follow. If other nations adopt similar legislation with their own exemptions to sovereign immunity, Americans could easily become suspect to legal actions abroad and national security could be negatively impacted. Why was there so much support for this law? It merely comes down to timing; 2016 is an election year. The only senator who did not vote to override the president’s veto, Senator Harry Reid of Nevada, will be retiring at the end of his current term. The other senators seeking reelection in 2016 likely do not want to be perceived as voting against 9/11 victims. Yet, the United States currently has no set procedures or funding to bring an entire country to court, limiting the probability that families of 9/11 victims will actually succeed in bringing a lawsuit against them. Due to this, and the negative consequences of this law relating to sovereign immunity and national security, other methods of legislation would prove more effective in helping families of 9/11 victims seek justice.
Photo Illustration by Anna Li
PRO
PIPELINE PROTEST n the debate against the morality of the justice relief on behalf of the Tribe reads: environmental impact of rails, trucks, and Dakota Pipeline, we see a country on “the defendant, U.S. Army Corps of En- potential accidents and spills. the brink between defending a histori- gineers (Corps), has taken actions in vi- On September 2nd, after the cally culturally-violated Native American olation of multiple federal statutes that Tribe’s attempt to stop the progression of tribe, Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, and the authorize the pipeline’s construction and the Dakota Access pipeline construction rush for economical oil consumerism. operation.” It continues that was denied by a federal judge, the United Dating back to States government issued "the construction...threatens environmental early 2015, Dakota Aca statement which voluncess, LLC, working as a and economic well-being, and would damage tarily halted its construcsubsidiary to the Energy and destroy sites of great historic, religious tion, further validating Transfer partners, beSiox Fall Tribe’s claims. and cultural significance to the Tribe." gan to develop a plan for The development will be the utilization voluntarily haltof the Bakken ed until the U.S. Oil Fields in Gover nment North Dakota. “can determine In order to whether it will utilize the Bakneed to reconken Oil Fields, sider any of it its a previously previous deciuntapped resions regarding source, a 1,172 the Lake Oahu mile pipeline site under the through North National EnviDakota, South ronmental PolDakota, Iowa, icy Act (NEPA) and into Pakoor other federal ta, Illinois relaws.” fineries would Whether the need to be pipeline should built. be built is still If sucup for debate, cessfully built, the pipeline’s route will In contrast to the potential nega- both within the U.S. government and run below the Missouri River, just half a tive impact of the pipeline, the production within the hearts and minds of its citizens. mile upstream of the Standing Rock Sioux would also necessitate at least 8,000 to However, we must remember that while Tribe, and will disrupt a great deal of cul- 12,000 jobs during construction. Accord- there seems to be inherent economic valtural and religiously significant land, while ing to the Energy Transfer Company rep- ues in the development of the pipeline for also leading to potential water contamina- resentatives, the investment should pro- the U.S., this debate is much broader than tion. Just days after the Dakota Access duce an estimated $156 million in sales economic issues. This debates concerns plans were approved by the Army Corps and income taxes, as well as a $55 million whether or not the United States is willof Engineering, the Sioux Tribe sued the annual property tax that would service ing to continue its violent cyclical pattern Corps in response to these possibilities. to support schools, roads and emergency of expanding its own economic empire Represented by Earthjustice, a services. Utilization of pipelines is also westward, while consciously and uncarnon-profit environmental law-firm, the environmentally responsible and eco- ingly depredating and violating Native written complaint for declaratory and in- nomical in that it removes the cost and the American land and culture. THE BULLETIN -
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BY TAYLOR THOMPSON
THE REAL MEANING OF FOOD LABELS by Annabella Correa-Maynard
Nutrition Facts Serving Size 475 words (2954 char) Servings per Container About 22
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n our fast paced, technology-dependent lifestyles, humans can still agree that food has the capability to appeal to the masses. With the wide variety of foods that are readily accessible, from the $1 small fries at McDonald’s to the hot and cold line available at Whole Foods, one would think that the need for detailed labels describing every food ingredient and source would subside. However, in recent years, there has been increasing pressure to reverse the seemingly “casual” consumption of foods without knowing what lies in the ingredients. There seems to be gridlock between “Support your local farmers!” on one end of the spectrum and the defendants of Monsanto on the other. In the midst of this contention, awareness of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) has increased. This issue has now also taken a hold on legislation. On August 1st, 2016, President Barack Obama signed a bill that would require the government to determine what constitutes a genetically modified food. However, this also ultimately nullified legislation such as Vermont’s law, which requires food companies with any source of genetic engineering to label their items with a text, sticker, or electronic code. Advocates for the labeling of GMO foods argue that the federal law would put ultimate discretion into the hands of the federal government, allowing for more persuasion to resist GMO labels from larger biotechnical food companies. Meanwhile, in June of 2016, 100
Nobel Laureates, mostly from backgrounds in physics, biology and chemistry, concluded that genetically modified foods were not harmful to the greater population. In a letter issued to Greenpeace and The United Nations, the Laureates argued that denying genetically engineered food to areas that did not have proper access to nutrients could potentially harm civilians in underdeveloped countries. This same idea could be applied to impoverished areas in America, specifically those that do not have access to nutritious food. While the trips to Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s are delightful, their prices tend to cater to those with a higher paycheck, not the broke college student or the family living on government assistance. The Department of Agriculture states that, in 2012, more than 47 million Americans struggled to put meals on the table. This would make purchasing healthy and affordable foods, not genetically modified, an even more cumbersome task. For some, it is not in their best interest to focus most heavily on organic ingredients. Regardless of America’s stance on GMOs, the larger issue at hand is how to make food available to a growing population. According to the Food and Drug Administration, anywhere between 70 to 80 percent of food produced in the United States is modified. If food companies are relying more on genetically engineered foods to keep up with consumer demands, is that in fact a crime against humanity or is it truly a way to benefit the greater good? THE BULLETIN -
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A&E
Gallery Galavanting
T
he busy streets of New York are often stressful and chaotic. But, there is a place where one can find solace in a geometric harmony—the Carmen Herrera: Lines of Sight exhibit at the Whitney Museum. Herrera, having turned one hundred and one this past year, has a grasp over art that has been fined tuned over decades. The exhibit showcases artwork from 1948 to 1978, the early part of Herrera’s career. As a woman and an immigrant, Herrera has struggled to receive recognition in the art world. But, in recent years, her work has finally achieved the respect and status it has so long deserved. Herrera’s style of geometric minimalism simplifies the complexities of life and illustrates them on canvas. Her series of paintings, called “Blanco y Verde,” showcase two colors: white and green. Despite using only two colors, Herrera is able to create infinite and dynamic movement in each work. As one walks through the exhibit, the works become increasingly vivid from various perspectives. The paint goes beyond the fronts of the can-
vases, touching each side. By allowing the marginal corners of the canvases to become parts of each piece, Herrera forces you to change the perspective from which you appreciate her art. This brings to light a greater question: How exactly do we view art? How many different perspectives can we use when we look not only at art, but at our own lives? Each sculpture in Herrera’s “Estructuras” series exhibits a slight tension. The sculptures are made of two pieces of wood that graze each other at an angle but never fit perfectly together. Despite the sculptures’ jarring and unsettling compositions, there is harmony. Although the two pieces never quite “fit,” together they create a whole, singular piece. These sculptures become three dimensional manifestations of some of Herrera’s paintings in the “Blanco y Verde” series. The “Blanco y Verde” pieces become blueprints for her Amarillo “Dos” sculpture. This evolution from canvas to sculpture is held together by a thread of similar compositional foundation, and illustrates the progression Herrera used - molding older THE BULLETIN -
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ideas into new works of art. Some of Herrera’s other works of art are on circular and elliptical canvases rather than rectangular ones. These pieces have more geometric and organic patterns. By painting on something different than the classic, long respected canvas, Herrera, once again, innovates and challenges older notions of art. While walking through Herrera’s exhibit at the Whitney, one can feel the progression and evolution of her work. Herrera works in various media, such as paint on canvas and wood-based sculptures, and employs many different geometric shapes and colors. But, the overarching theme of Herrera’s artwork is centered around how, through strong colors and abstract representations, art resonates with individual viewers and provokes sublime experiences. Herrera’s work evokes uncomfortable tension and beautiful balance simultaneously. This contradictory harmony is beyond the realm of humanity and but also epitomizes the human experience.
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by Allisen Lichtenstein
What We’re Binge Watching BY Alice Flinn
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D
onald Glover, or as you may better know him, Childish Gambino, both stars in and executively produces his new show “Atlanta.” Glover’s comedy-drama focuses on two cousins, Earn and Alfred (“Paper Boi”), trying to make a name for themselves in Atlanta’s rap scene. Glover plays Earn, a broke Princeton dropout who returns home to Atlanta. While back home, Earn tries to manage his cousin’s rap career. His parents still reside in Atlanta, but they refuse to continue supporting him, short of babysitting his daughter when his onagain-off-again girlfriend is at work. Glover landed the deal with FX to make “Atlanta” three years ago. In a TCA interview, he said that his vision for the show had been to make it a variation of “Twin Peaks,” a kookie crime show that also features “oddball characters,” for rappers. He went on to say that he also drew inspiration
from the movie “City of God” and that, currently his favorite show is “Rick and Morty.” In an interview with Business Insider, Glover addressed how he hoped to find success in an untapped market: “I know how to sell it,” he told his interviewer, “It needs to just feel like you’re black, you know?” Much of “Atlanta’s” success is due to its feeling of authenticity. Emily Nussbaum, a television critic for The New Yorker, cites “Atlanta” as a product of a new movement in television, created when the comedian Louis C.K. debuted “Louie” in 2010. “It kicked the door open to a new style of TV comedy,” Nussbaum elaborates, “one that looked and felt more like an independent film.” She continues on to qualify Lena Dunham’s “Girls” as another member of this “not-everyone-needsto-like-it” phenomenon. In “Atlanta”, the source of authenticity comes from Glover’s own demeanor. He has voiced THE BULLETIN -
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his opinion that making a show which depicts blacks as struggling is a “super easy” pitfall for producers to fall into. Rather than produce another whitenoise show, Glover says that he wanted to focus on “most people who live in everyday lives--white people, Chinese people, Mexican people--they’re living their lives, and they’re trying to eat.” The show airs on FX on Tuesday nights at 10 pm. “Atlanta” is currently in its inaugural season, with seven of its ten episodes out, and it has already been renewed by FX for a second season. Rotten Tomatoes gave the first season an approval rating of 100%. It is available to watch for $1.99 per episode on iTunes, YouTube, and Amazon Video, and will soon be coming to Hulu. Gossiponthis.com currently offers Atlanta episodes for free. Each episode is between twenty and thirty minutes long, not counting commercials.
I
n many ways, this election has lent itself to some of the funniest political sketches and impressions we’ve seen. The sheer amount of candidates participating in the primaries gave SNL a serious overflow of comedy fodder. But as we enter the home stretch before Americans hit the polls on November 8th, SNL has fallen flat.This is not to say the cast’s impressions are not good; they are. McKinnon excels in any role she’s given, and her deadpan impression of a very self aware Kellyanne Conway is no exception. Darrell Hammond reprised his Bill Clinton, while new cast member Melissa Villaseñor did a spot-on impression of Sarah Silverman. Cecily Strong’s impression of Lin Manuel Miranda was everything a good impression should be: mocking, loving, physical, and most importantly, grounded in a deep understanding of the person’s perspective. Yet this sort of sketch, as many of the past election sketches have
by Allison Stewart this year, mistakenly compared Clinton and Trump’s campaigns as equally inane. SNL’s sketches have not contained subversion or original thought: they simply point out the absurdity of a situation that is blatantly absurd. Same as last year, they continue to treat Trump as if he was any other Republican, and they continue to treat this election as if it is similar to any other presidential election in American history. The Presidential Debate Cold Open featured a new Trump and a familiar Clinton. It is clear McKinnon’s impression of Clinton comes from a deep admiration, and similar to Strong’s impression of Lin Manuel Miranda, this shines through. While Amy Poehler’s impression of Clinton was also affectionate, I would argue that McKinnon’s physicality elevates the impression even further. Many of SNL’s best presidential impressions have had an affectionate tone, like Dana Carvey’s impression of George H.W. Bush; even if the THE BULLETIN -
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show was not politically aligned with the administration, they rarely portrayed Bush Sr. as ill-intentioned or as an out-right dolt. SNL has had equally amazing derisive impressions: Will Ferrell’s George W. Bush and Tina Fey’s Sarah Palin come to mind immediately.Yet Trump impressions never seem to be properly derisive. A garishly spray tanned Alec Baldwin with a very pronounced under lip, played Trump for SNL’s premiere. While Baldwin hit the bullseye when mocking Trump’s physical attributes, it wasn’t totally satisfying. The sketch didn’t have to deviate very far from the actual debate to be sufficiently droll. What has become clear is that the writers at SNL, like most other comedy writers, are struggling to understand what really makes Trump tick. The laughter seems to be more based in fear of the general ridiculousness of this election, rather than on nuanced political observation about either candidates in this election.
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SNL Election Coverage
Barnard in the Outer Boroughs:
NYCL
Bushwick, Brooklyn
B
rooklyn has attained a sort of mythological status among many Barnard and Columbia students. From the hectic campus bubble, it is seen as a hub for artists and hipsters, a place with trendy bars and wild weekend parties. But is any of this actually in Brooklyn? The borough’s hipster reputation definitely rings true in some places. In recent years, Brooklyn has experienced extensive gentrification as it has evolved into a hub for art, design, and tech start-ups, attracting young artists and entrepreneurs to many of its neighborhoods. If you are interested in the borough’s art scene, go to Bushwick, a recently revitalized workingclass neighborhood, to check out The Bushwick Collective. Do not let the hour-long subway ride scare you; If you are stressed about getting your assignments done, it is easy to do some reading or study from a Google doc on the way down—especially because once you transfer from the 1 train at 14th street you are pretty much guaranteed a seat on the L, no matter the time of day. The Bushwick Collective is not so much a “place” like Google Maps would have you believe: once you get off the L at Jefferson Street, you see it—graffiti everywhere, marked every so often with
by Veronica Suchodolski
tags that say “The Bushwick Collective.” Bushwick is not the New York you see in mainstream photos or movies. The buildings are short and run-down, almost all made of brick. If it were not for the art, it might look dumpy and unwelcoming. The art is quite literally all over the place, for the first few blocks surrounding the subway station, there is no break in it at all—every building is painted with pieces that take up the entire wall. Even as you head further out, every block has at least
one large-scale professional grade piece of street art, accompanied by numerous tags. If you look down, you’ll notice artwork decorating the sidewalk as well. You do not have to be a huge art buff to like Bushwick. The graffiti covers such a wide range of genres that you will inevitably find something you like—from pop color patterns to faded black and white designs to inspirational quotes to political commentary, the Collective has you covered. If you are into Instagram, THE BULLETIN -
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definitely bring your friends along for a photoshoot. While you could spend hours wandering the streets and gazing at the art, at some point you may want to get some work done. Pitanga is a hole-inthe-wall café located at 207 Starr Street, less than a five minute walk from the Jefferson Street subway station, and a perfect spot for reading or writing an essay. They are known for their açaí bowls, but they also have you covered for healthy and sustainable sandwiches, smoothies, and coffee—just watch out for the five dollar credit card minimum. If the superfood menu of Pitanga doesn’t quite appeal to you, grab a bite at Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos. Located right outside one of the entrances to the Jefferson Street subway stop at 271 Starr Street, it is an ideal stop to make right before you ship yourself back up to Manhattan. Located inside a tortilla factory, this bare-bones cantina offers authentic Mexican cuisine for a good price—tacos are $2.50 each. The place is cash only, but if you come unprepared, they have an ATM in the dining area. Bushwick is an art haven ideal for taking a break from academics, both your mind and Instagram account will thank you if you make the trip there.
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"around manhattan" brunch cruise by katherine leak Photo Illustration by Art Board
M
y culinary venture beyond the MoHi bubble was a bit atypical, due to the fact that my brunch was not on dry land. Instead, I took a jaunt on the Yacht Manhattan for a three hour cruise around Manhattan, complete with a four course brunch. I had been researching New York City boat tours for months, everything from a dinner cruise with a dance floor to a romantic Valentine’s Day excursion, but the hefty price tags made me question whether or not the trip was worth it. I had all but given up on the idea when I found discounted tickets for a Classic Harbor Line cruise on Goldstar (a website offering tickets to events in the city for heavily reduced prices), and the price dwindled from close to $100 to a much more reasonable $50. My experience on the cruise - and all of the food I ate - made every dollar I spent worth it. We boarded our 1920s-style
boat, with its airy, spacious seating area and panoramic view of the water, and started our circumnavigation of Manhattan Island. The crew wasted no time setting up a fabulous buffet of food, of which the first course was, happily, an abundance of carbs, from croissants and Danishes to a waffle station. One of my favorite memories from the day was standing to make a waffle while watching the Statue of Liberty emerge right in front me. The savory second course consisted of an egg and vegetable frittata, with a side of sausage, and the third course was fresh kale salad and ham. Finally, a dessert of chocolate cake, biscotti, and fresh fruit rounded out this four course brunch, and we finished our journey on theYacht Manhattan pleasantly full. An additional perk included in the ticket price was a free first drink, anything from mimosas and Bloody Marys to coffee and juice; non-alcoholic beverTHE BULLETIN -
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ages were available at no additional charge throughout the cruise. This cruise provided a unique perspective of the city that I now call home and gave me the chance to see areas of the city that I have never visited before, from the lower portion of Brooklyn to the natural beauty at the northern tip of the island. It is easy to forget just how much is packed onto Manhattan’s 13 miles. This cruise offers a relaxing way to view the entire island from the comfort of a boat, not to mention endless photo opportunities along the way. The calm atmosphere on board the Manhattan makes it the perfect outing for a date, a family visit, or even just a weekend brunch with friends. The three hour cruise was just the escape I needed from the hustle of midterm season, and all I had to do was break free of the bubble.
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Little-Known Thrift Shops by andrea sanin
W
e all have heard of Beacon’s Closet and Salvation Army – they are hard to miss in a city that has become increasingly hooked on bargain hunting. However, if you are looking for an even better deal, more rummage space, or somewhere that doesn’t only have a brightly lit sign on the corner of Broadway, you may want to explore New York’s teeming thrift shop business elsewhere.
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1. St. Luke's 487 Hudson St This small, unassuming thrift shop is located beneath the staircase of St. Luke’s, divided into four rooms. Though admittedly not neatly organized, the charm of the cozy, brick inlaid shop only increases with the shop’s lack of neat organization
2. Monk Vintage 175 MacDougal St This hole-in-the-wall thrift shop is brimming with New York charisma. Monk’s has women and men’s clothing, shoes, purses, and a whole wall of accessories. If you’re into anything vintage, from the 1920’s to the 1990’s, Monk’s is sure to satisfy you. With a good mixture of high end and casual pieces, it’s not unusual to stumble upon lightly used designer clothing for a cheap price tag. Not only are the prices reasonable, but it has a unique donating system so that if you donate an article of clothing, you get 15% off your own purchase. 3. Meshimar 433 7th Ave, Brooklyn If you have your Saturday open, Meshimar is the place to be. Its disorganization allows for hours of rummaging – and discoveries. Retro, vintage, designer, and both men and women’s clothing adorn this small shop in Brooklyn. For fall, they have genuine cashmere sweaters for under $30. Unlike Beacon’s Closet, Meshimar has a smaller selection of more quality items, at a lower price.
adds to the charm of the cozy, brick inlaid shop. At St. Luke’s, they have clothes, jewelry, miscellaneous goods, and small furniture items – for lower prices. 50% or 70% off sales are the norm. Even better, St. Luke’s is always brimming with sweet attendants ready to help you (and give you more discounts).
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4. East Village Thrift 186 2nd Ave
Perhaps the most stashed away treasure, East Village Thrift has a huge inventory with an incredible variety of clothing. East Village Thrift has a classic feel with down-to-earth employees always willing to help peruse the many stacks of clutches, scarves, and polka-dot dresses. Not to mention, as a movie or music lover, they have an extensive CD and DVD collection for less than $4. 5. Finderz Keeperz Vintage Boutique 111 Malcolm X Blvd The best thing about Finderz Keeperz is that it is a bargain hunter’s dream – prices do not waver above $40. This sprawling shop is decked with scarves, sweaters, shoes, jewelry, and hidden accessories tucked between the racks. The $10 rack is not the castaways, instead, they are filled with in-season jeans, sweaters, and dresses. Hint: If you are looking for costumes or anything unique for an upcoming event, Finderz Keepers is the place for you – from flapper dresses to feathered hats, there’s no shortage of costume ideas.
DEALS
for by Hannah Welles
M
oving into a suite with a kitchen can be an exciting yet daunting experience. Cooking for yourself, maintaining a healthy diet, and utilizing a tiny kitchen can be unwelcome stressors in an already hectic college lifestyle.With that said, here are some tips and recipes to help you make the most of your new digs.
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Keep your refrigerator organized.
One helpful way to make sure that nothing goes bad and you always know what is in your fridge is to keep a list of what is inside and the date it was bought on the fridge. There is nothing worse than finding some mysterious, rotten thing in the back of your refrigerator, so instead of cleaning it up later, prevent it now, and save yourself some money and a headache.
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Buy some ingredients in bulk.
Buying in bulk is often much cheaper, but unfortunately in a tiny dorm, it is not always an option. When you can, buy large quantities of ingredients that will not
meals
spoil, so that you can always have them on hand. For example, rice, cereal, other grains, and canned goods are items that you can buy in bulk and are great to have in the kitchen without taking up too much space.
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Investigate your foods' nutritional value.
Everyone loves mac and cheese and pizza, but, tragically, it is impossible to sustain a healthy diet on carbs alone. Be realistic about the nutrients your body needs and shop accordingly. These days as people become more health-conscious, there are a lot of foods that have been enhanced to have higher nutritional value than they ordinarily would, such as pasta with added fiber and protein. These foods are great for people with allergies and other dietary restrictions, as well as for people looking to get the most value out of each bite.
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Buy versatile ingredients.
Many foods can be used in several different types of meals. For example, tortillas can be used to make quesadillas, flatbread THE BULLETIN -
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pizzas, and delicious dessert pockets. Rice can be a side or a main dish depending on what you add to it. Getting ingredients that can be used in different ways is a great way to save money and not waste food.
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Lastly, here are some delicious and super simple recipes that can easily be made for one:
Flatbread "pizza"
Put a tortilla in a preheated pan. Layer a sauce (marinara, pesto, etc.), cheese (goat, mozzarella), and veggies (tomatoes, spinach, onion) on top of it. Cover the pan, and put it on low heat for a few minutes while the cheese melts.
Microwave quesadilla Put shredded cheese and chopped vegetables onto a quesadilla and fold it in half. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Smoothies Blend frozen fruit (cheap!) with orange juice, milk, or yogurt for a filling and energizing breakfast. For this recipe you do not need a fancy blender. You can find a small, single-serving blender online for under $20. Also, you can add protein powder to make this a more filling meal. With a little bit of imagination and dealhunting in grocery stores, you can make your own delicious and healthful meals in your dorm kitchen.
A How To for Tickets by Alice Flinn
E
ver wondered what it is like to take part in those laughs or claps on live shows? Or been jealous that your friend has been closer to a celebrity than you? Or maybe just had another dull night on campus and need some stress relief? Tickets to The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and Saturday Night Live are not as out of reach as you may think. With these shows, it is true that advance tickets are very, very hard to get; however, there is still hope for the average college student with standby tickets. For all of these shows, the tickets are free, but you must be of 16 years or older to attend and have a valid photo-ID with you.
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
tapes every weekday at the NBC Ed Sullivan Theater; standby tickets are therefore given out every weekday as well. Here are the steps for participating in the standby ticket process: 1) Get in line at the Ed Sullivan Theater by at 1:00 p.m. They allow the line to start forming at 1pm, but they give out a limited number of tickets, so you want to ensure that you are in the very front of that line. Location: Ed Sullivan Theater, 1697 Broadway (between W.53rd and W. 54th Streets) 2) Staff will begin ticket distribution one hour prior to showtime (yes, you have just had to wait in a line that’s not moving for over an hour) Show times: Monday to Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. and Thursday 3:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon can also be tricky to procure tickets for; they too have a
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grueling standby process, and tickets are available every day that the show tapes. Here is what to do: 1) Before 9:00 a.m. on the day of a taping, arrive at the NBC marquee on 49th Street. The line normally begins to form a few hours earlier, so plan on getting up early. 2) Tickets will be numbered and distributed in order to those in line at 9:00 a.m. (hint: you want to be in the front of this line).
Saturday Night Live also offers standby tickets. These too are distributed early in the morning and require lots
of patience and the ability to wait in line for an extended period of time. 1) Show up by 7:00 a.m. on the 48th Street side of 30 Rockefeller Plaza on mornings of the show. Again, the line normally begins to form awhile beforehand, so plan on waiting around. Depending on who is performing, sometimes the line will start 24-hours before, and fanatics will camp on the sidewalk over- night. There is free wifi (normally) outside where you will be waiting. 2) There are TWO types of standby tickets: you will have the choice of trying to see either the 8:00 p.m. dress rehearsal or the 11:30 p.m. broadcast. Tip: It is normally easier to get tickets to the dress rehearsal, which has the exact same content as the live show. 3) Again, standby tickets are issued on a first-come, first-serve basis. THE BULLETIN -
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