Barnard Bulletin, October 2016 by Barnard Bulletin

Back to Basics

March 2016

dorm workouts best brunch awards white feminism in the media

October 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 '19 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 - october 2016

A Letter from the Editors

new school year evokes an unparalleled mix of feelings; anxiousness of the unknown clashes with excitement for new opportunity, as energy and exhaustion rotate endlessly. Although this sensation is brand new to you first-years, we think many upperclassmen may also be feeling a sense of unfamiliarity due to all of Barnard’s recent changes. As we say farewell to Maggie and “hello” to the new library, (well, eventually), we hope that you look to The Bulletin as a way to cozy-up to campus. This issue’s centerpiece, Strengthening our Roots, is a comprehensive guide to our college’s transformations, but also, a reminder that magic happens outside of our comfort zones. Speaking of fresh starts, allow us to introduce ourselves as the new Co-Editors-in-Chief of this bold, beautiful magazine. Stepping into Rebecca and Sarah’s shoes has been nerve-racking, confusing, and tiring, but more than anything else, a massive honor. We could not have produced this issue without the hardwork of our team and all of the lovely contributors, so thanks everyone. Honestly, we’re overjoyed, because if you’re reading this right now that means we did our job right. We hope that everyone continues into this semester with an open mind, (trust us, fall break is closer than you think), and that you look to these 48-pages of glossy goodness if you are in need of some guidance, a laugh, or just want to procrastinate. Sincerely, Ali & Imani

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3 // Letter from the Editors 5 // Behind the Scenes 6 // Trending & Playlist

Health & Style

Politics & Opinion

8 // don't neglect the negligee 9 // skin sorcery 10 // ode to joanne 11 // feeling fall 12 // beauty nightmares: tea & trainers 13 // merch mania 14 // dorm workouts

30 // she said, she said 31 // women in politics 32 // campus controversy 33 // the politics you actually want to watch 34 // talking third party 35 // the future of family leave

Features 16 // love, actually 18 // centerpiece: strengthening our roots 22 // in her words: first year fears 24 // a steel magnolia 26 // swiping into jj's 28 // thank you, obama's 29 // how to avoid cultural appropriation this halloween

Arts & Entertainment 36 // must see live 37 // white feminism in the media 38 // what we're binge watching 39 // destination netflix

New York City Living 40 // bites beyond the bubble 42 // barnard in the outer boroughs 43 // best brunch awards 44 // top 5 little known coffee shops 45 // how to fall in love with the city 46 // stomping ground 47 // one for the books

ehind he cenes Models: amber shin & ali mcqueen Photography: claudia levey Art Direction: judy liu

Harness Add a lil' badass to your plain white tee look..

Barnard B-Moji App share your love for barnard with these adorable millie emojis.

Holographic Stick

Shearling Mules chic slides that are fall ready? yes, please.

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Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page

blast off with these extraterrestrial vibes.

Cha Cha Matcha matcha froyo and coffee is a must try before the weather gets too chilly.

Y7 Yoga 60 minutes of hot yoga set to kanye, drake, and chance in a candle lit studio is the best workout you'll have all month.

biebs in the trap

california heaven jahkoy ft. schoolboy q

TRAVI$ SCOTT

2. pink & white

mad love jojo

frank ocean

dang!

uptown lady jakubi

mac miller ft. anderson park

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H&S Don’t Don’t Neglect Neglect by Eve Frangopoulos

the the

s your wardrobe slipping? If not, it should be. The negligee is sliding out of bed and making its way to brunch, nightclubs, and many other stylish occasions. The intimate-wear as outerwear trend of the 90s has resurfaced as a staple for even the tiniest of fashion-lovers, North West. The trend, despite its initial intimidation, is actually wearable and surprisingly modest; it just all depends on how you take it from the bedroom to the street. There are a few different ways to wear the trend, the easiest being a slip dress layered over a comfy t-shirt. During the day, pair this look with Vans or Doc Martens to add to the already effortless vibe. However, this outfit transitions easily for a night out: just swap the sneakers with your favorite pair of heels. Depending on the length of the dress, it can also be

worn as a top by tucking it into a cool pair of jeans, or menswear-inspired trousers. During the colder months, try layering the slip over a black turtleneck for a cozy-meets-luxe look. For the more daring, the negligee can even be worn over a pair of jeans. The trend also goes far beyond the slip dress. PJ style silk sets have been popping up all over NYFW, as evident from both Thankoon and Alexander Wang’s Spring 2016 fashion shows. These pieces, when worn separately, are extremely versatile and look great paired with rougher textures. Finding these pieces is actually quite easy. Reformation, which boasts eco-friendly practices, just released a collection of silk pieces. Prices can range from $98 to $198, but are worth the investment for the quality. However, more affordable prices

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can be found in your local thrift store. L-Train Vintage, which has several locations throughout New York City, always has pieces hovering around $20 or less. Similarly, thrift stores like Vintage Thrift and City Opera have select vintage pieces in the $20$35 range. But if you are feeling really crafty, try asking a family member if they have a piece that they wouldn’t mind passing on to you. If you’re not interested in the hunt, Brandy Melville’s Prince Street store in Soho has select vintage slip pieces and Urban Outfitters and Nasty Gal normally have an array of silky numbers instore and online. Still not convinced? If the pieces you’ve got just don’t seem to work for you, you can always bring it back to the bedroom. It’s quite literally the most effortless trend.

Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page

Negligee Negligee

by Sydney Hotz

kincare magic has flooded the market: we’re talking serums. These highly concentrated liquids are designed to pack a punch and treat a myriad of facial concerns. Whether you need to combat acne or amp up your glow, there is a specialty serum out there that can meet your needs. The boom of trendy skincare companies that push cruelty-free, paraben-free, and hypoallergenic products has made it difficult to know where to start. Don’t sweat it, though, because after scouring through pages of blog posts and customer reviews, and trying a few product samples ourselves, we have narrowed it down to the best of the best.

Skin Sorcery

Gel ($28)

This fairly cheap gel-based serum offers you a squeaky clean and tingly feeling, while the mayblossom extract clears away pesky pimples. This product works wonders for your T-Zone, which means it prevents oil buildup on the nose and forehead to ward off pimples before they even form.

Illustration by Imani Randolph

inerals SkinLongevity Vital Power Infusion Serum ($48)

Produced with all skin types in mind, SkinLongevity restores luminosity with its long life herb, California poppy, and ginger extracts.Your face will feel so replenished and radiant you might not even need a highlighter.

For Combatting Acne: REN

Clarimatte T-Zone Control Cleansing

Iceplant Pressed Serum ($49)

Containing 60% iceplant extract, this serum creates a barrier to protect your skin against polluted air, which the city is filled with. Sulfate, paraben and phthalate free, Blithe provides a light serum that leaves you moisturized and protected from whatever the city throws your way.

per Pack by Glossier ($65, $28 individually)

Hydration Face Serum ($55)

If You Want to Glow: BareM-

NYC Essential: Blithe Crystal

Best Overall: The Su-

To Provide Moisture: Fresh Rose Deep This fast absorbing serum provides 24 hour moisture and acts as a perfect base to layer on a foundation or night cream. Ingredients such as rosewater and cucumber soothe, while algae and rose flower oil nourish and lock in hydration that will leave your skin feeling supple.

familiar with the wonky skin changes college causes, but luckily this product will tighten pores, treat imperfections, and the willowherb extract will bring back your glow.

After Sleepless Nights: Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II ($62) Estée Lauder uses its exclusive ChronoluxCB Technology, which works to prevent skin cells’ natural “clock” from slowing down and maximizes the overnight restoration period.You’ll wake up in the morning with soft, fortified skin, wondering how your dark circles disappeared so quickly. Poof! Magic.

To Preserve Your Youth: Origins Original Skin Renewal System with Willowherb ($44)

This serum is deemed the best for women in their early 20s. We are all THE BULLETIN -

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Designed not for a skin type, but for all of your monthly and seasonal skin changes, The Super Pack contains three different serums (Super Glow, Super Bounce and Super Pure) that give you a bang for your buck and a serum for every situation. Turn to Super Glow after an all-nighter when feeling dull; the Vitamin C and Magnesium will brighten you and prep you for the day. Super Bounce, incorporates Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5 to soften and revitalize your skin; the ultimate hangover cure, well, for your skin at least. Lastly, Super Pure will soothe and purify your acne-prone areas, reducing redness and eliminating the need for concealer that morning.

ODE TO JOANNE: Things to Learn from this

Scheme Queen

by Sukanya Pusey

Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page

f the name Joanne the Scammer is unfamiliar to you please leave the rock under which you live and join the world of schemers and liars. Done up in a disheveled platinum bob and voluminous fur coat, Joanne is the paragon of beauty, grace, and, most importantly, treachery. This icon spends her days conning men out of their money and her nights starting drama. She dares people to question her tactics, preparing her best of comebacks to silence them. Joanne is problematic in the best way possible— which is the reason why the internet is raving over her. Here are four things we can learn from this scheme queen:

1. Accept yourself for who you are.

As a self proclaimed messy b*tch, Joanne chooses not to hide her true nature under the guise of a kind smile and uninteresting small talk. She knows who she is, both the bad and good parts, and she uses that to her advantage. From the moment she won her third grade spelling bee with the word embezzlement, to her first video in which she introduced herself as a notorious liar and scammer, Joanne solidified her spot as the voice of the petty and unashamed.

leverage to scam her way onto the red carpet of the 2016 VMA’s. Whether you are trying to establish a connection for an internship opportunity or job, Joanne’s method of taking what you want when you want it proves to be beneficial.

4. Sisterhood

is key.

2. Be confident.

Joanne the Scammer plays no games: she knows that she is the “baddest” and refuses to let anyone make her feel inferior. Whether she is caught stealing or scamming, she refuses to let it affect the high esteem she holds herself in. Her unwavering self confidence makes men cry. If you try to insult her, she will find some way to take it as a compliment.

3. Build a network.

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Joanne is the brutally honest friend you need to tell you, with total clarity, if your highlights don’t suit you, or if your mink is not at the level it needs to be. It is not because she’s a hater, it is because she wants you to reach your full potential; empowerment is at the forefront of her agenda. Women everywhere can learn a lot from Joanne’s tactfulness, like her goalworthy-glare: a tool of deception that is sure to boost scamming success. Joanne the Scammer is a messy product of a messy world; she takes full advantage of any situation to further her personal gain. She is honestly, truly, the ultimate carefree, self serving woman of the 21st century — scheming and plotting all while looking flawless. Follow Joanne’s lead and watch yourself transform into an icon.

Feeling Fall by Imani Randolph

The abundance of cozy layers that the chilled Autumn weather requires makes saying farewell to your favorite sundress a lot easier. Rather than sunny days providing warmth, we now have the chance to pull on ribbed turtlenecks and sleek leather jackets to keep us toasty.

his Fall, implementing key textures, rather than specific items or silhouettes, is the best way to stay on trend. This chunky wool outerwear began garHere are some options that are equally fun nering hype over a year ago as a cool alternative to fur, but what has allowed this to touch as they are to wear: item to stay relevant is how it’s been remixed. Now retailers like Zara and Acne have strayed from the classic earthtone color scheme with pastel and metallic renThis season, velvet is making a major reditions. Consider throwing on a baby blue vival, but in different ways than one might shearling, (faux or real), atop an all-black expect. Swap that fuzzy skater dress you might have worn to one of your high fit to execute the trend like a pro.

shearling

velvet

Digital Art by Emily Supple

school Winter Balls for a badass velvet pantsuit: think Chantel Jeffries at NYFW, (available on sites like Reformation and Pretty Little Thing). However, if you are looking for a more lowkey way to incorporate this texture into your Fall look, keep your eyes peeled for velvet booties; depending on the color you choose, these cozy kicks will become your new go-to.

silk & satin

Silky slip dresses have been popping up everywhere, creating an aesthetically pleasing intersection between casual and luxe. To switch things up, however, try out a shiny souvenir jacket; this eye-catching bomber will do all the talking, so feel free to keep your other layers more neutral.

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Alternatively, seek out silky pants, (think: TLC’s look in the “Creep” video), to pair with a bold fur coat to elevate this trend.

embroidered denim

We’re blessed that denim tends to stick around as the foundation to looks for every season, but the incorporation of embroidery has been a fresh twist for Fall. Gucci has delivered loads of brilliant jackets and jeans with snake, tiger, and other flora and fauna imagery, but luckily so have stores like Topshop and ASOS, with a move inviting price range. Work these embroidered pieces into your wardrobe by simply swapping them with your existing denim apparel; the delicate embellishments add a sense of warmth and richness to your overall look.

Beauty Nightmares Tea & Trainers

s someone who hates the gym and loves pizza, I’m always looking for a good shortcut. Any scenario in which I don’t have to sweat or eat kale is ideal. So when my Instagram feed flooded with people like the Kardashians and Hilary Duff endorsing products like FitTea and Bootea, my curiosity was piqued. Two cups of tea every day and I’d fit back into my jeans? Perfect. So I started researching every brand of “teatox” I could find, looking for the one that would make me look like a Victoria’s Secret Angel. Many of the teas were enticing, promising to get rid of belly fat and leave the user feeling energized because of their concentrations of antioxidants, but in terms of weight loss and “detoxifying” the body, there was not much scien-

tific proof that these products worked. In fact, articles by leading nutritionists, such as Manuel Villacorta RD and Laura Lagano RD, said that no single thing can “detoxify” your system, emphasizing the lack of research conducted for these products. These companies are not required to provide evidence to support their claims because their teas are marketed as “dietary supplements.” In other words, this tea is meant to supplement an already ultra-healthy lifestyle, aka: no processed foods or refined sugars, and regular exercise. Some teas even come with a suggested meal plan, which begs the question if any “results” can even be attributed to the teas themselves. My research also found that one of the main THE BULLETIN -

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ingredients in many of these teas is senna leaf, a powerful laxative, which Villacorta says you shouldn’t take for longer than 2 weeks at a time. Nonetheless, many of these detox teas are suggested for long durations, and, as you can imagine, the results must get pretty messy. Although the alluring possibilities of the detox teas became unrealistic, I was still curious about a non-edible alternative: waist trainers. Theoretically, all one has to do is devotedly wear this quasi-corset to transform into a Kim K clone. But with deeper inspection, waist trainers seemed equally terrifying as the teas. This new wave corset works by squeezing your internal organs together; putting the user at risk of limiting their lung capacity and causing major rib damage. Also keep in mind that any weight you do lose is from how much the waist trainer causes you to sweat. At the end of the day, I’ve come to the sad conclusion that I’ll either be hitting up Dodge or the salad bar for the rest of the year and only coming in contact with the teas and trainers on my Instagram feed.

Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page

By Ayelet Schorr

Merch Mania

C Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page

oncert t-shirts are like the stickers on your computer: they are trendy, full of personality, and make you seem cooler than you actually are. During your middle school days, they were a way of showing off your apparently cultured and retro music taste, (remember all the ACDC and Beatles apparel?), while also being an easy, everyday staple. This season, concert tees have made a comeback, with everyone from Kendall Jenner to Lil Yachty is rocking (yes, pun intended) the trend. Tour centered apparel, dubbed “Merch,” has returned with such a force due to its twist on This revival of tour merchandise stems from the concert culture that debuted in the 1970s; self-expression by way of t-shirts was, and now is again, the coolest way to show off your dope music taste. Coping a crew neck, hoodie, or dad hat is integral to today’s musical experience because it allows you to linger in the ecstasy of seeing your favorite song live and brag without saying a single word. Simply put, it is the synthesis of the date on the back

By Emma Bellows

and the graphics on the front that make merch both sentimental and stylish. Kanye West, an undeniable trailblazer in the realms of fashion and music, is a major player in bringing merch back to its experience-oriented roots; some of the ‘Saint Pablo Tour’ apparel feature a single date that correlates with the performance that concert-goers attended. Preceding his most recent releases, Mr.West launched 21 pop up shops, sprawled across five continents, to drop “The Life of Pablo” merch with the, now iconic, gothic lettering. The collection is most definitely worth the bravado with a variety of crewneck sweatshirts, hoodies, and graphic t-shirts, featuring contrasting colors and notable lyrics, the most typically Kanye of them saying: “All of the rumours you have heard about me are true and legendary.” Following suit, Justin Bieber created what is essentially a merch enterprise. He began at the top, and partnered with Jerry Lorenzo, designer of Fear of God, to create his tour apparel and launch

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a collection with Barney’s. Next, he partnered with Urban Outfitters and debuted a collection promoting his Purpose tour. The “Baby” singer’s purple American Apparel sweatshirt days are clearly long gone, as some of his new merch includes sultry close-ups of the Canada-native and his biting lyric: “My momma don’t like you.” In the spirit of accessibility, though, Bieber has also teamed up with Forever 21 with a “Justin Forever” line priced $35 and under. Unlike Kanye, Bieber’s merch is notably unexclusive and available at nearly every price point and brand-type. Drake, Beyonce, Future, and Travi$ Scott are just a few of the many artists who have released merch that has prompted a street style frenzy. Though the nuances may seem extraneous, the updated band tee has solidified its place as a wardrobe essential. Band together (again, #SorryNotSorry), and embrace fall’s most candid look, be it with ripped skinnies, leather jackets, or a killer pair of thigh high boots; it’s almost impossible to not look cool.

DORM WORKOUTS

By Ching Wen (Winnie) Wang THE BULLETIN -

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With classes, homework, exams, naps, clubs, jobs, miscellaneous meetings, and everything in between, fitting in a consistent workout routine

can become a challenging task. Not every person has the time to take advantage of Barnard or Columbia’s Fitness Centers, so what’s a student to do when they want to incorporate fitness into their hectic schedule? Lucky for you, there are a number of ways to exercise in the comfort of your own dorm room:

Incorporate Your TextBooks: If you’re already throwing away $200 on a lousy textbook, you might as well make the most of it. These financial burdens are a great substitute for dumbbells that will surely add to your workout and help you strengthen your muscles.

Photography by Claudia Levey

Overhead Tricep Extension Targeted Area: Triceps Grab a moderately heavy textbook with both hands and sit on the edge of a chair. Your feet should be flat on the floor, shoulder width apart. Making sure you have a good grip on the textbook, slowly lift your arms straight up until they are fully extended over your head. Lower the textbook slowly behind your head, keeping your elbows close to your ears. Hold for 3 seconds, then return to the starting position and repeat.

Sumo Squats Targeted Areas: Quads, Glutes, Hamstrings Stand with your feet wider than shoulder width apart and your toes turned out at a 45-degree angle. Hold your textbook in front of your hips. As you push your hips back and squat down, bring the textbook down to the floor in between your legs. Your back should be straight and your core tight. Stand back up to the starting position and repeat.

USE YOUR FURNITURE: Though reclining on your sofa or lazing around in bed sounds super appealing, these household items can be used as tools to assist a range of fitness goals.

CHAIR DIPS Targeted Area: Triceps Sit on the edge of the chair and place your palms shoulder width apart behind your hips on the chair. Move your feet forward so that your butt is just in front of the chair. With your chest up, core muscles tight, and shoulders relaxed, lower your body until your elbows are parallel to the floor. Exhale and push back up to return to starting position. Repeat and lower steadily.

Crunches Targeted Areas: Abs, Arms Lie face up on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat. Hold your textbook over your head with both hands. Tighten your core and use it to lift your shoulders off the floor and the textbook into the air. Hold the position for two seconds and slowly return to the floor.You should feel some burning in your arms as well as your abdominal section.

WALL PUSH UPS TARGETED AREAS: ARMS, CHEST, SHOULDERS Face a wall and extend your arms in front of you, placing your palms flat against the surface at shoulder height and width apart.Your feet should also be shoulder width apart. Bend your elbows slowly and lower your upper body until your nose almost touches the wall. Hold the position for two seconds and slowly push yourself back up until your arms are straight again.

FOLLOW FITNESS GURUS ON YOUTUBE: YouTube is bursting with channels dedicated to fitness and healthy living. These instructors, such as the popular Cassey Ho of blogilates, introduce the many exercises you can do at home that will make you stronger and have you feeling great. In addition, they’re great workout buddies who motivate you to keep going until the very end.

CHANNEL & INSTRUCTOR: BeFiT Mary Helen Bowers A Columbia University alumna and a New York City Ballet Dancer, Mary Helen Bowers will guide you through her “BalletBeautiful” workout series. These videos cover all parts of the body and only require a yoga mat (and a strong will). Her incredibly calm composure, short videos, and simple exercises make it seem like the workout is easy, but your muscles will definitely be burning and sore the next day.

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CHANNEL & INSTRUCTOR: Rebecca Louise Rebecca Louise Rebecca Louise has one mission: to make you feel your best every single day with a healthy, active lifestyle. With her trusty Chihuahua mix sidekick, Sir Alphie, she’ll get you sweating and your blood pumping in just ten to fifteen minutes. She has multiple workouts for each area of the body, so you’ll never need to do the same video over and over. This energetic British trainer is not here to let you quit until you can say #ICanFeelTheBurnRebecca!

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features

Love, Actually... I didn’t believe in love. I thought it was some fairy-tale emotion created by Walt Disney. I now do, and reflecting upon that emotion and experience has made me very aware of how dangerously powerful that emotion can be. It was love that made a longdistance relationship seem like the only answer when starting college. People found it strange when they saw us without one another. We spent an inordinate amount of time together physically. Immediately after we’d text. We’re each other’s best friends, so a long-distance relationship felt natural. When he left after helping me settle into my dorm, both of us expected the relationship to be tricky but not impossible. However, it proved itself to be quite tricky for the both of us in different ways. NSOP was easily one of the worst parts of my life. He had not

by Eve Trangopoulas, Sydney Hotz, Alice Flinn

spoken to me the whole week, only to send a single text every two days. His remarks made it clear that I was not a priority in his life anymore. It was like speaking to a wall. Swept up in the newfound hedonistic freedom that college allows, a girlfriend so physically far away had little value for immediate satisfaction. Completely heart-broken and sick, it felt quite obvious what the outcome of his behavior would be. The thought of food was appalling with a stomach teeming with anxiety. A truly inexplicable, unwavering pain. Being love-sick is no empty idiom. Its symptoms are very real. All of this sounds quite dramatic, but it felt warranted. We had been so close that we refused to spend any time of the week without one another. No one could have predicted this shift in behavior. When the stress had been enough, I caught his attention and set very clear rules about the relationship if he wished to continue it. Neither of us anticipated it to begin like this.

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There were positive aspects to this experience. It was sadly obvious how dependent I became. The love is unquestionably there, but the experience raised good caution, which is an important mindset when going into a long distance relationship. Long-distances relationships can love can transcend the physical. I know the waiting is worth it. His dad got movies before they came out in theaters; how that worked wasn’t important to me. What was important to me was being able to lie in his lap and fall asleep watching them, feeling safe and loved. What was important to him, however, was that I understood the movies, that I understood his dad was vaguely important somewhere, and that, by extension, he was too. Our relationship lasted eleven months, with a smattering of relapse hookups since. That was my first relation-

Illustration by Ching Wen (Winnie) Wang

ship, and it was good for what it was. A series of first times defined our relationship, but we did not really have much else in common. When it was time for us to go our separate ways, we easily never overlapped in our academic, social, or extracurricular lives. By the time we got around to hooking up again, it was truly no strings attached. But how do you end up hooking up with your ex if you’ve already moved on? In my case, it was because somebody else had just broken up with me. I don’t remember meeting him, I don’t remember when I became his friend, and I’m not even sure when we “officially” started dating (I don’t think he knows either). So I can’t tell you how long we dated, or exactly how it came to be. Only that it happened, and then it was suddenly over. I had something and now I don’t, and I’m not supposed to think about it or acknowledge it. But being with him was the most natural thing I’d ever felt. I really did love him, and to lose something like that was huge for me. However, soon after we broke up, I came to realize that he had left for legitimate reasons. Simply put: I was a handful, I wasn’t independent, I leaned on him too much, and this was why not having him around put so much pressure on me. I’ve seen this happen with my friends too: they were insecure, dated guys, and when they left, my friends were completely lost. I’d already been that girl, and I didn’t want that for myself again, and so I decided to change the

ending. I learned that it’s not the experience; it’s what you do with and learn from the experience that makes it mean something. And I wanted what had once been the most natural thing in my life to mean something, to have a better ending. So I made an effort to grow from it, and, while it was hard, I wouldn’t want to be standing anywhere else today.

“You and I, we just don’t match.” They always say losing your first love hurts the most, but I think losing my second hurt even more. It was the night of my Christmas Party, one month before our 2 year anniversary and just 6 months from high school graduation. I needed space to breathe, but he didn’t listen. He showed up, changed, not a hint of the guy I fell in love with during sophomore year. His affection was gone, as was the kind, caring, light in his eyes. The night continued on, me trying to have fun playing Jenga and Twister with my friends, and him trying to hide his miserable-ness from them. Eventually, we were alone. Rejecting my attempts at endearment, the end abruptly began. He lied to me about parties he attended behind my back, the girls he was texting, and his new “friends” who publicly hated me. My tears were of no substance to him; he had chosen them over me. He wanted

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to drink, smoke, and party with the worst of them: all things he swore to himself he would never do. He fell for the peer pressure, telling me he didn’t want to take just any girl to prom (me) and we wouldn’t have lasted after college anyway. He rationalized his every move, stating calmly that winter break was the best time to do this because he would have time to recover before school. Back and forth he flopped between cold and sad; he didn’t want to breakup and wanted one last kiss. It was overwhelmingly confusing, sudden, and numbing. It was over, nothing else he said mattered. He looked around my living room, for the last time, and let himself out; the hollow, tragic look in his eyes as he pulled my door shut burned in my memory. Immediately I wallowed, staying up until 5 a.m. I changed my Facebook profile and relationship status, sending shock waves through the senior class of 60 students. Everyone knew and everyone was quiet. It took a month for people to ask me what happened, and by that point I was glad our relationship was over. I had the rest of my senior year to be single, free of a toxic relationship, enjoy life, and prepare for college. I asked one of my best guy friends to prom and now look back on my last few months of high school with a smile. I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way; I graduated a free, strong, independent Barnard woman and I loved every moment.

Strengthening

our Roots

Strengthening

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t seems as though change, while undeniably inevitable, occurs at a remarkably faster pace in our 21st century, technological age. From one day to the next, we see ideas evolve into physical realities, landscapes transform from extreme to extreme, and policies and laws amended to reflect the constant metamorphosis of our society; and that is just the beginning . Our “college on a hilltop” is no exception to this universal phenomenon. The 2016 academic year alone has seen the undertaking of a series of college-wide changes, made and curated in order to keep up with the ever-evolving nature of that which surrounds us at Barnard, in New York City, and beyond. These changes make up three essential aspects of the Barnard experience: academic curriculum, dining, and campus resources. So, without further ado, I present to you, the BB guide to keeping up.

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The new curriculum embraces the idea that thinking critically, having the skills to move through this dynamically changing world is what really matters for a Barnard education

Out with Nine Ways In with Foundations Arguably one of the largest changes to come to Barnard in the last decade is the introduction of a new set of curriculum requirements, replacing the uniquely Barnard trademark, the Nine Ways of Knowing. Back in 2001, the Nine Ways were merely coming to fruition, born from what a committee, composed of a series of faculty, students, and administration, believed that “graduates of a liberal arts school should know and what they should accomplish.” This commitment to maintaining and fostering an authentic liberal arts experience remains at the center of the present day changes to the curriculum. Fifteen years later, Foundations, has arrived, as the latest set of requirements, beginning with the Class of 2020 onwards. “The new curriculum embraces

the idea that thinking critically, having the skills to move through this dynamically changing world is what really matters for a Barnard education,” explains Barnard Provost Linda Bell. [Nine Ways of] Knowing has been exchanged for [Modes of] Thinking, requiring students to take one class in each of the following:

1. Thinking Locally-New York City 2. Thinking through Global Inquiry 3. Thinking about Social Difference 4. Thinking with Historical Perspective 5. Thinking Quantitatively & Empirically 6. Thinking Technologically & Digitally

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social analysis, cultural, and quantitative based requirements. But items like technology requirement have been added to reflect the increasing importance of technological familiarity in our increasingly digital world. In addition to the Modes of Thinking, a semester each of First Year Writing First Year Seminar, and physical education must be completed, as well as the 2-2-2-2 distributional-requirementquartet of two language courses, two science courses (one of which must be a lab), two arts and humanities courses, and two social science courses. Courses can be double dipped, and satisfy both distributional requirements and the Modes of Thinking, with an overall goal of allowing students more flexibility and freedom in coursework and course load.

Swiping Farther We don’t mess around with food here at the Nard’, a point we’ve made so clear that they had to expand our dining options. The most exciting of these developments is hands down, the extended (& expansive) Diana McIntosh Cafe options. Not only has the food choices significantly improved and grown in number, but for the first time, the Diana is now open for dinner! That’s right folks! To make matters even greater, these dinners are worth a meal swipe, making for a now total of 5 dining facilities that Barnard students have swipe access to: Ferris Booth, John Jay, Hewitt, JJ’s, and the Diana. Access to JJ’s Place in itself, of course, is yet another triumph for the books. So much so that we devoted an entire article to it. (pg 26) In addition to this, our beloved Hewitt now has an Executive Chef who promises a revamped and improved dining experience.

Campus Transformation

The final, unavoidable (quite literally) change, occurring on campus is a drastic change of scenery. Gone are the days of our beloved Lehman Lawn, of open greenery, study breaks under the Magnolia, and of a proper library to call our own. In their place, we find a new life filled with rumbling noises, large construction machinery, and a void of dirt with big dreams for the future. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, however, (coincidentally, a the center of all this is an actual makeshift tunnel), and in a few years time (projected opening Fall 2018), we will be graced with a state of the art, 128,000 square foot, Teaching and Learning Center (fancy words for library), that will be as inspiring as it is intellectually stimulating.

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by Emma Yee Yick Model // Amber Shin Photography // Claudia Levey Art Direction // Judy Liu

nard in the future While we are unsure of the changes that are still yet to come, the ones that have been implemented and that are in the works are sure to reap beautiful fruit. We navigate through our lives in a constant limbo between living in the present and looking towards the future, between adapting to change and envisioning and developing a new tomorrow. All the while, however, a few items remain constant in this ever-changing world, most importantly, I believe, being the essence of the Barnard woman, forever a pillar of uninhibited grace, miraculous strength, and incredible poise. So whatever Barnardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future holds, us Barnard women are ready.

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First Year Fears THE BULLETIN -

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In Her Words C Illustration by Alice Rowland

ollege has always seemed a hypothetical concept in my life. It was always way in the future; something to obsess over that would never actually happen. Yet just a few short weeks ago, after barely surviving the agonizing college process, my car was packed and I was en route to my dream school. Though eager to start this next chapter, I couldn’t stop my ever-present fears from encompassing me, leaving me anxious about everything that lay ahead. That first day will live in infamy as the most overwhelming day of my life. Everywhere I looked, there were new people to meet. The shrieks of the NSOP leaders got me hyped, but, quite honestly, made me a nervous wreck. I put on a brave face, knowing that I had too much ahead of me to crawl back into bed and leave college for another day. I trekked up to the boiling hot eighth floor of Reid, made my room look “~aesthetic~,” and met my roommate. I tried to engage in conversation with everyone I saw, wondering who I would never see again and who would become my lifelong companions. After many hours of settling into my sweaty shoebox, it was time for what I knew would be the hardest part: saying goodbye to my parents. Of course,

my parents couldn’t just leave our tearful goodbye in my dorm; we had to go right to the Barnard gates so that all of my new classmates could see me choking back tears. Trying my best to grow up on the spot, I said a quick farewell. My parents started their new empty-nest lives, and I headed back to my room in disbelief that they were gone. I was in the grandest city in the world, and I felt completely alone. By the first dinner, everyone seemed to be making lifelong friendships. There was just one problem: I didn’t feel like a part of it. It seemed everyone had new friends to sit and laugh with except for me. I went up to my room and called my mom, crying that I hadn’t made a single friend. She replied, “You’ve been there four hours; of course you don’t have friends. Nobody does.” Her words, though seemingly obvious, were comforting; I liked the idea that everyone was in the same position. I devoted my time to engaging with as many people as possible, which was more taxing than expected. I would meet someone new, learn their name, and, because seventy other new names were stuffed in my head, completely forget my new friend’s name by the end of the conversation. For those whose names and faces I managed THE BULLETIN -

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to remember, I made an effort to say hello every time I saw them to solidify the friendship. Each time I was alone, I forced myself to mingle, not wanting to waste precious friend-making time. Constant engagement was not the healthiest method either; exhaustion set in within a few days. At this point, I learned the first of many lessons I hope to learn this year: college is all about balance. Locking myself in my room for all of NSOP wouldn’t have been smart, but it’s okay to allow myself some downtime now and then. Giving myself time to watch Netflix and maybe even shed some tears helped me unwind and handle everything thrown my way. By the end of NSOP, I felt more ready than ever to take on my upcoming adventure. Though still no expert, I can confidently say that some of my first-year fears have been assuaged. Everyone settles in at their own pace, and I know that I’ll find my niche. In the meantime, I’ve enjoyed making new friends, diving into my classes, and trying out new clubs. I know that I will face many challenges this year, but with the help of such a supportive community, I know I will make it through. The first year of college is scary, but one thing is for certain: we’re all in it together.

A Steel Magnolia By Faith Amenn

Maggie was a tree that Shel Silverstein couldn’t write: the sprawling, children’s-book magnolia popped against the city brick and gave Lehman Lawn a distinct personality; like the women Barnard welcomes and waters, she was meant to grow in Morningside Heights.

ut she may have been meant to leave, too. Maggie, who had reliably offered springtime shade and finals-week respite for decades, did not survive a relocation attempt mandated by plans for the new Teaching and Learning Center, as Robert Goldberg, the Chief Operating Officer at Barnard, confirmed via e-mail in September. In his message, he explained the reasoning behind that move: the project team knew from the beginning that it could fail, but because of the tree’s history and meaning, they “decided that every effort should be made to try to relocate it.” Relocation was one of only three bleak options -- Hilary Callahan, the College’s Biology department chair, told the Columbia Spectator, that the two left were removal and replacement. Maggie’s new home would have satisfied the desires of the community and the demands of construction, and based on the tree’s health at the time, Callahan predicted a “long future.” But natural causes quickly uprooted these well-laid plans: Quenta Vettel, the Communications Director for Special Projects, revealed in June that Maggie was withering: even in the heat, leaves did not emerge. More recent updates tease clones produced by greenhouse coordinator Nicholas Gershberg, but until they develop, students who have spent fall days reading Woolf in the sun and lounging on the grass must adjust to the current realities of campus life. The images familiar to them -- flowers that appeared in brochures and Facebook albums, the well-traveled path to Milbank -- have been erased.

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Though I’m excited to see how the Teaching and Learning Center will benefit Barnard’s young Bold and Beautiful -how my school will continue to evolve in the years to come -- as a senior, I can’t help but feel disappointed when I walk to my 10:10s and pass a lawn totally shielded by Plexiglass and scaffolding. I still remember the day I tiptoed into Milbank for my admissions interview: I wore a navy blazer and flats, and I was terrified. In my head, I tried to list my extra-curriculars and the reasons I’d earned a spot at Barnard. I had nothing. I found the buildings and posters so daunting: I’m from Astoria, but I’d never seen the school off-screen or taken a numbered train. For months, it had been a picture, a concept, a search result. But there it was, and there I was, absorbing the sights as if I were Armstrong or Aldrin. And there Maggie was, branched out as I made my way toward the Sulzberger Annex. I paused to look at her and thought of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn and my mother and Francie Nolan and the smell of a library book. And I knew that I would see Maggie again, next time with textbooks, a cup of hot chocolate, and confidence. She would be there as I gripped the strap of my backpack, sipped my Diet Coke, and rushed to class with D.C. intern speed -- as I prepared to become somebody. And what makes me smile now is the knowledge that our next tree will be there for someone else.

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By Juliana Kaplan

Swiping into JJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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Y Photography by Claudia Levey

ou’ve heard tell of these glistening stairs. Their smells intoxicate you, the Columbia equivalent of the cartoon arm extending from a pie, beckoning you to eat the goods you so desperately crave. But every hero has a journey. They must embark on a quest of epic proportions, and learn something about themselves along the way. And, my dear hero, your quest was perilous at times. Perhaps it required some libations, or, even worse, befriending men. You had to stumble past the obstacle of the small statue on your ID, pitching her javelin ever forward. Perhaps you even had to endure so-called jokes about “THE college” and its superiority. But all of your suffering, your fearlessness, has not been in vain. There is a light at the end of the stairs, and now it is yours for the taking. Well, my sisters, fight no longer. Stop texting those boys back and cackle with glee over your ID. It is our time now. Free the shackles of the administration

and the ever-confusing consortium and walk down those stairs, ladies. The time is ours! Take yourself to JJ’s! As they swipe your ID, smile to yourself. Maybe even take a picture. Remember: this is probably the best moment of your entire life. Screw “graduating from college.” This singular swipe is it. As your card moves slowly through the machine, be sure to think of all of the feminist triumphs that have led up to this moment. And now you have to right to unlimited curly fries. We’ve made it. As you walk into JJs, be sure to inhale the sights and sounds. Just don’t inhale too hard (that grill can get a little smoky). As you sit among what seems like every Columbia sports team, quietly pat yourself on the back. You’ve done it. You’ve made it. Those boys who seem to have been playing foosball for like 10 years? They swiped in just like you. That cup of M&M’s that you smuggle out? You paid for them. Heck, they’re practically your

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birthright. That post JJ’s stomach ache? You wear it proudly. Don’t regret that fifth order of mozzarella sticks. Remember: feminism is having as many mozzarella sticks as you want. When you at last stumble out of JJs, consider it a walk of pride. Hold your Jamba Juice high, my fellow bears. Wave at PrezBo as his Audi drives past, cursing the day that he ever gave Barnard students access to his secret stash of french fries. The world is your oyster. Barnard, welcome to JJ’s. May it treat you well*.

*That is until you discover Diana late night, and never venture across Broadway again.

Thank You, Obamas Dear Obamas,

We all know that Barack has accomplished a multitude of feats while in office, including establishing universal health care, withdrawing troops from Iraq and Afghanistan, and helping to save

the auto industry, just to name a few. But it really seems like every member of your family has become a major contributor to our country over the past eight years. Michelle, as the most highly educated First Lady in history, you have dedicated your life to helping and serving others, and it shows. Before Barack was elected, you brought the AmeriCorps public service program, Public Allies, to Chicago and founded the first community service program at the University of Chicago. As First Lady, you continued your passion for helping others by advocating for important issues all across America.You created several initiatives, which aim to reduce childhood obesity, support members of the military and their families, encourage young people to continue their education beyond high school, and increase girls’ access to quality education worldwide. Michelle, you have worked incredibly hard to make this country a better place for all of us Americans, and we are truly grateful. Sidenote: you’ve looked great doing it!

Malia and Sasha, you were only ten and seven years old when your father was inaugurated as the forty-fourth President of the United States, so it’s safe to say that you’ve had quite the unusual childhood experience. Luckily for you (and us), your parents have displayed a strong commitment to putting family first and developing close relationships with you, despite your far from normal circumstances. It has been so exciting to watch girls our own age grow up in the White House. Over the course of your eight years in the spotlight, you have exhibited poise and grace well beyond your years, even when the media scrutiny is intense. Malia, you’ve impressed us all by working on a professional television set, interning at the U.S. embassy in Spain, and even serving as your father’s translator on a trip to Cuba. We can’t wait to see where else your gap year takes you. Sasha, you were so little when you first came into the public eye when your father was elected president, and now you’re all grown up, working and everything. It’s been so fun seeing your transformation over the years. Needless to say, you two have a bright future, and it is a relief to see that you don’t let all the pressure get to you. We are jealous of how you’ve taken advantage of the perks of having Barack Obama as a dad: international travel, living in the White House, and especially meeting Ryan Reynolds and many other famous individuals. Thank you for showing us all that just because you are the president’s THE BULLETIN -

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daughters doesn’t mean you can’t have fun and (almost) normal teenage lives. I think we all wish we could hang out with you. Lastly, President Obama, thank you for uniting this country during times of uncertainty and difficulty and for being an awesome president.You have tried to do what is best for the country and its people, which is never easy, but your unwavering dedication to making America a better place is truly admirable. Seeing you let loose and be yourself on talk shows and at other fun events, even if it means embarrassing yourself, has been a joy. Your willingness to laugh at yourself has created some extremely funny videos and scenarios, so thank you for that. Some of the cutest pictures out there are the ones of you with little kids at the White House. Thank you for taking time out of your impossibly busy schedule to show us Americans that you are not just President Obama, the man in the oval office, but that you are also Barack, father of two, a husband, and an actual human being. Whether they agree with your policies or not, I think most Americans would agree that you are a good man with a big heart.

Obamas, you have given us much to be thankful for outside of Barack’s presidency, and it is safe to say that you will be sorely missed once you vacate the White House in four short months.

Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page

By Hannah Welles

“We’re a Culture, Not a Costume”

A Guide on How to Avoid Cultural Appropriation This Halloween by Radhika Shah

n 2011, students at Ohio University crediting the culture it comes from. How- Not only is that term incorrect, it is also launched a widely successful campaign ever, draping 6 yards of cloth around your extremely disrespectful to put on furto end racial prejudice motivated Hal- body, sticking on a bindi (whilst calling it ry UGGS, a furry jacket and whatever loween costumes called “We’re A Culture, “forehead bling”), putting henna on your (furry) else that you can find. While you Not A Costume” with posters disclaim- hands and raving about your “original” might be doing a good job of imitating ing: “This is NOT who I am, and this is costume is not okay. Kylie Jenner’s Halloween costume (deepNOT okay.” There is a clear ly problematic in itself), and "Halloween as a holiday has a you might not think that and direct harmful consequence of putting on a “Eskimos” are an ethnicity history of being focused on the “sexy Arabian dancer” cosor nationality, but Inuits are, tume for what seems like Native Alaskans are, and the inversion of power," just one night of ‘ween fun. diversity of the peoples that With every ill-designed, however well-in- says professor Susan Scafidi of Fordham populate areas where such clothing is or tentioned costume you step in and out of, University. “It’s about turning the daily was a way of life, is severely undermined you are giving the proverbial middle fin- world on its head.” When you dress up as in this process. ger to centuries of discrimination, power a culture that you are currently oppresshierarchies and cultures. The history of ing, or have subjugated in the past, you’re How to dress up as an Asian stereocolonization and discrimination has real not inverting anything, you’re just kicking type: consequences today. The privileges that them when they are down — or, as Scafidi Don’t dress up as the smart Asian kid in the majority the white community ex- says, “reinforcing current power strucclass. Don’t dress up as a geisha. Don’t ercises are rooted in systematic oppres- tures in an offensive way.” Here’s what dress up as an Indian bride. Don’t dress sion, for instance, of Native Americans. It NOT to do this Halloween, if cultural apup as the “Chinese dragon lady.” There are would be inexcusable for not only a white propriation isn’t on your agenda: better costumes out there, ones that don’t person, but any non-Native American, to add to the discrimination and racism that dress up with some face-paint and feath- How to dress up as Jasmine from already exist in the U.S. today. ers and “let loose” this Halloween. Aladdin, or an Arabian belly-dancer: Halloween is seen as a holiday Dressing up as a popular fictional char- How to dress up as an African tribal, to enjoy a transient sense of freedom and acter, as long as you don’t attempt to or blackface: mystery. Most Halloween parties carry “tweak” your features, complexion or Don’t. There is a long and painful history with them the sense of pretense and fourother physical markers to resemble said involving blackface and the ways in which walled-secrecy that allows people to let character, is acceptable. Want to be Jasthey were used for entertainment, and if down their inhibitions while simultanemine, or Mulan for Halloween? Go ahead. blackface is indeed a “costume” you don’t ously dressing up as somebody they are Order yourself a costume online or make find problematic, researching it would not. Anna Akbari, PhD, a sociologist and it yourself, but don’t buy a spray-tan to go give you a hundred reasons to stay far away founder of Sociology of Style says, “Evwith your Middle Eastern “heritage” for from it this Halloween. The same applies eryday life gets turned upside down and the night, and don’t try to make yourself for dressing up “tribal”: African countries inside out, hierarchies dissolve, the sacred look Chinese. Dressing up as “Arab” with have a long and complex history with tribbecomes profane.” It is at this point that a traditional headdress, would qualify as al cultures, many of which are still in exislines are crossed; white people decide cultural appropriation. tence today. Using diverse and multi-layto go blackface, people who are neither ered cultures and their physical markers Native American nor Indian (“feathers, How to dress up as Native American: as presenting as “barbaric” is extremely NOR dots”), dress up in feathered headDon’t. Unless you are Native American. disrespectful, more so than anything else. dresses or saris. Being Indian myself, and This applies to all nationalities and ethConsidering the history of colonization, loving genuinely curious and respectful nicities. slavery and imperialism, its connotations questions about my country’s culture, I and consequences, this should never be a would never mind somebody trying on “costume” for Halloween. a sari while recognizing, respecting and How to dress up as an “Eskimo”:

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P&O

She Said/She Said Colin Kaepernick Protesting the National Anthem

by Kashaf Doha

an Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick sparked a national debate after he refused to stand during the playing of the national anthem, in protest of the United States’ oppression of the black community. The quarterback asserts that the U.S. has not done enough to control the police state, and that he will continue his protest until the conditions of the black community improve. Kaepernick’s protest is justified: by using his platform to emphasize this situation, Kaepernick is creating a necessary conversation about freedom of speech and the U.S. history of oppression. Immediately after the football player’s protest, many argued that Kaepernick offended those who serve and defend the United States overseas. Let it be clear that Kaepernick is not actively trying to offend soldiers and veterans; instead, his intent is to bring light upon the United States’ unfortunate history with people of color. In fact, veterans have come out to support Kaepernick, calling for an end to police brutality and institutionalized oppression. Instead of focusing on who might be wrongfully offended, more energy should be spent on discussing the meaning of his protest for minorities. Others argue that politics should not enter sports, that there is a different place and time for such conversations. However, from Muhammad Ali’s refusal to join the draft to the 1968 Olympics’ black power salute, sports have always created a powerful platform for athletes to speak about the issues that they care about. Kaepernick and his protest are simply another addition to the long list of athletes advocating for social and racial justice. Silence is not an option when unarmed black Americans are killed without consequences. In an interview, Kaepernick said, “To me, this is bigger than football, and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way.”

// A

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by Xonatia Lee

CON

s the “Star-Spangled Banner” echoed throughout the football stadium, fans gazed toward the American flag with pride, but one football player did not feel that same pride. Colin Kaepernick, quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers, sat down on the bench with his head bowed, because the national anthem and the American flag did not represent all Americans equally. Referencing the recent killings of innocent black women and men by police officers during a postgame interview, he declared, “There are bodies in the street and [police officers] getting paid leave and getting away with murder.” Yet, by opposing the tradition of standing during the national anthem, Kaepernick’s message became misinterpreted in the media and by hundreds of people; thus, his message is camouflaged from its true meaning. Kaepernick’s protest is referred to as the “national anthem protest” rather than the “anti-police brutality protest” by several news sources, such as the Washington Post. By failing to address the protest as what Kaepernick is advocating for, the media misrepresents his protest’s significance and undermines his activism. Thus, this misrepresentation creates the wrong types of discussions around his protest. Some critics perceived him as disrespecting the U.S. military, while others felt that he was lawfully using his right to free speech. However, by having the popular discourse focus on the U.S. military and the Constitution rather than about racial inequality, his correct message is not being discussed and he loses authority over it. Therefore, Colin Kaepernick’s stance against the oppression of black people in America is camouflaged when he sits down during the playing of the national anthem. The misrepresentation and the discussions around his protests only surround the national anthem, its ties to veterans, and the right to free speech, rather than his call to action of ending racial injustice.

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Illustration by Helen Guo

PRO

Women in Politics: Kirsten Gillibrand & Melissa Mark-Viverito by Allisen Lichtenstein

Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page

rom the senate to the city council, discriminated against to receive full com- around the city, and I am proud of the New York women have been mak- pensation and protect workers from re- progress we have made so far on expanding their marks on the political taliation if they share salary information. ing such opportunities. Of course, there world. Politicians such as Senator Kirsten Locally, New York City Council is always more work that can be done. IniGillibrand and New York City Council Speaker and Columbia alumna Melissa tiatives like our recently passed minority Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito have giv- Mark-Viverito is also making a huge im- and women owned businesses legislation en metaphorical megaphones to women pact on women’s lives. In particular, she shows that we are here to serve every conacross New York through various forms has made great strides for women of color stituency group, across the five boroughs.” of legislation, ensuring that our voices in New York with her Young Women’s Ini- The YWI focuses on five key isare not only being heard but spearheading tiative. Being of its extreme ethnic diver- sues that affect women of color: health, change. sity, New York is very much in need of a economic and workforce development, New York Senator Gillibrand is initiative likeYWI, which approaches gov- community support and opportunity, known as one of the great defenders and ernment from an intersectional feminist education, and anti-violence and crimisupporters of women’s rights nal justice. Data on each of with a 100 percent rating “There are so many distinct communities in these key issues was gathered from the National Organizaand recommendations for New York City that it would be a disservice not tion of Women. Her testimoimprovement were made. A ny before the Senate regard- to try our best at being inclusive of all of them,” highly detailed report was ing the Bipartisan Campus released in May 2016 that Accountability and Safety exposed the many intricaAct—an important piece of cies of the issues for women legislation that would provide of color. But it doesn’t end more resources to survivors there. Mark-Viverito has of sexual assault as well as done other work to help furcreate more stringent penalther the rights of women and ties and regulation—brought minorities across the borattention to a major issue oughs of New York City. In across the colleges of Amera September press release, ica. Senator Gillibrand also she supported legislation to has a major focus on women help ensure both “the transin the workforce, describing parency and accountability them as“the untapped poof the city’s contracting with tential in this economy,” in a minority and women owned 2013 NPR interview. Senabusinesses.” tor Gillibrand is also currently fighting for perspective. Both Senator Gillibrand and passage of the Paycheck Fairness Act. This said Mark-Viverito. “That includes start- Council Speaker Mark-Viverito affect would build upon the Equal Pay Act, im- ing with our youngest residents, and of- the lives of young women every day and posed in 1963 to help combat the gender fering them the types of resources that show how important political action can pay gap as well as address sexist inequali- can lead to a more successful future. The be. Despite operating at different levels of ties in the workplace. The Paycheck Fair- Young Women’s Initiative is a vital step in government, these two women have the ness Act will allow those who have been bringing those resources to young women same goal: to better the lives of women. THE BULLETIN -

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Campus

his past August, The University of Chicago’s Dean of Students sent a letter to the incoming first-year class regarding “trigger-warnings” and campus “safe spaces.” The Dean claimed that “trigger-warnings” did not stand with the University’s goal to uphold their commitment to academic freedom. Similarly, “safe spaces” were not to be condoned as a way to avoid perspectives at odds with the students. This bold approach to what many millennials and college students consider a hot-topic issue translated over to social media sites and even pressured responses from other academic institutions in regards to their policy. Many people, including presidents of colleges, students, and faculty members, shared their insights as to why “trigger-warnings” and “safe spaces” were necessary in the classroom setting. However, there are many who still wonder whether or not “trigger-warnings” actually aid people who have experienced some sort of trauma. Furthermore, they wonder whether or not denying a “safe space” means that schools are failing to

protect their student body. It would be naive to think that a school that professes itself to be “antitrigger warnings” is somehow synonymous with a school that is “anti-safe.” There is no direct correlation between the two, especially with the glaring reality of what a truly unsafe school environment actually looks like. Take, for example, the college student in Texas who could be sitting next to someone who feels the need to bring an unlocked rifle on campus for “protective purposes.” Instead, to secure a “safe space,” what we need to have are conversations on what triggers are, and, more specifically, what triggers us. In order to revert this language barrier of not being able to properly define it, we must actively discuss it. One of the biggest criticisms of millennials is their inability to effectively communicate their emotions, so that a slight inconvenience would be over-exaggerated as the “worst thing that has ever happened to me.” Or, to be more specific, suggesting that someone is personally experiencing a “panic attack” when they are really not. To avoid this trigger barrier, we cannot shy away from talking about its implications in contemporary language. There is a specific language that goes hand in hand with being triggered, one that cannot be mistaken or misconTHE BULLETIN -

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strued as anything else but that reaction. Triggers cannot be experienced if you are slightly offended by something. In fact, people who are triggered often have such an intense, emotionally cathartic response to what they are experiencing that they cannot vocalize what they are going through. Does it mean that a University or Institution as a whole must cater to those individual experiences by creating “safe spaces?” Possibly, but that does not mean that it is any less of an institution should it not. The purpose of obtaining a higher education is to challenge young minds. For those who are mildly offended by something that they have not experienced first-hand, the ability to discuss graphic or violent issues serves as a learning opportunity, even though it may be difficult. Agreement on every single issue, no matter the content, is a threat to your ability to communicate and develop a diverse mindset. However, human decency is also a compassionate act of learning. Unfortunately, not everything in life comes with a warning. What should be expected of an institution is a willing community of people. Women, specifically here, who are interested in each other’s best interests and well-being, are a safe space, with or without the name. It is in the best interest of millennials to understand differences and still be able to hold a conversation and passionately change minds. After all, is that not why we are here at Barnard?

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Controversy by Annabella Correa-Maynard

4 I

The Politics You Actually Want to Watch

Political Series Better than the Real Deal by Hadar Tanne

f you’ve been anywhere but under a really big rock in the past while, you’ll know that the U.S presidential race has been speeding up, heating up, and alarming many people. As fascinating as the future of the U.S (and much of international relations) is, sometimes thinking about what rides on this election gets all too real and you need to bury yourself with make believe: equally crazy, perhaps, but comforting in its fictionality! Here’s a quick guide to help you choose your Netflix therapy (Pro tip: these shows are an excellent way to get motivated for those endless polisci/history readings).

House of Cards

People do good things for bad reasons. Everything about this show is dark, especially after (tiny spoiler alert)- Robin Wright’s Claire Underwood goes from blonde to brunette, and you brace yourself in preparation for even more wrongdoings. You will get sucked in, you will start to question your motivations and those of everyone around you , you’ll find yourself rooting for evil and selfishness to rule the world, and you will be inspired to rule the world yourself.You’ll also be tempted to run for hours in the dark, wear unrealistically chic outfits, and smoke one cigarette looking like elegance herself.

Scandal

People do bad things for good reasons. It’s Shondaland, people. It’s messy and beautiful and heartbreaking and uplifting and devastating, just like Olivia’s definition of love. Olivia Pope is a “fixer”- a Washington crisis-management mogul, whose names equally inspires and terrifies all; she has a close relationship with the White House and yields an inadvisable amount of power over billionaires, presidents, wives, friends, and enemies. If you need to remember that sometimes, people do bad things- really bad things- for love and friendship, this is definitely for you. Olivia’s style also gives me closet envy every damn time, and her strength is an inspiration to remember that even on your worst day, you can still dominate.

The Good Wife

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I must confess that I have not finished the series, so if you reach season 7 and something terrible happens, you have my deepest apologies. However, seeing Alicia Florrick in action, I also have the utmost faith that she can persevere with kindness and underrated badassery. Alicia Florrick takes over as the breadwinner responsible for her family after her husband- powerful state’s attorney Peter Florrick- goes down in a scandalous exposure of his extra-curricular (and extra-marital) activities. “The Good Wife” follows the theme of a highly intelligent woman finding herself in over her head - or so she thinks- only to prove to everyone around her that a smart woman should never be underestimated. For those interested in the intersection of politics and the legal world, the moral struggles that accompany a life after betrayal, and an honest woman trying to stay out of the unflattering spotlight, this one’s for you.

The West Wing

The quintessential, the honourary, the one that started it all, and the one I’m so glad I was advised to “start watching, like, yesterday”. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world”- having borrowed the quote from Margaret Meade, “The West Wing” puts it to good use and truly lives up to it in nearly every episode. Advisers, press secretaries, regular (though extraordinary) secretaries, chief of staff, all try to keep the country running and maybe improve things in the process (helped by the intelligent President Bartlet and his pragmatic ideals). Honestly, this is the only way to go when you want both honesty and hope, quick wit and many many feels. THE BULLETIN -

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Talking

Third Party

he 2016 Presidential Election offers two of the most disliked candidates in recent decades, as less than half of Democrats and Republicans have expressed satisfaction with their respective party’s nominee. For many U.S. citizens, fervent distaste for the presidential nominees overcomes the sense of obligation to vote this Election Day. “If my choice is just between someone bad or someone worse: no, thank you,” is a statement often overheard from those choosing to neglect the ballots this November. Voting for “the lesser of two evils” is not an attractive prospect, so the fact that anywhere between 10-20% of voters are undecided or thinking about voting for a third party should come as no surprise. This election has proven, time and time again, that people are unsatisfied with the United States’ twoparty system. However, most voters also do not want to waste their vote on a candidate who, realistically speaking, has a very unlikely chance of winning. Third-party nominees often lack the vast resources, funds, or name recognition that both Clinton and Trump have utilized this past year. Candidates Jill Stein of the Green Party and Gary Johnson of the Libertarian Party thus campaign at a huge disadvantage, espe-

cially given the recent revelation that neither candidate will be allowed onto the presidential debate stage. To qualify for the debate, a candidate must be polling at a percentage rate of 15 or higher in major national polls, indicating a sufficient possibility of winning the presidency. This flawed rule prevents third-party candidates, already at a drawback to gain popularity with voters, from attaining more recognition and support during the widely televised debates. Gary Johnson, the first thirdparty candidate since the ‘90s to make the ballot in all 50 states, has already started a petition urging the Commission of Presidential Debates to include him on stage. Candidate Jill Stein, viewed as an alternate in place of Bernie Sanders, has gained many left-leaning supporters dissatisfied with Hillary Clinton’s more centrist policies. However, being merely a second-choice candidate is not adequately inspiring to gain enough votes. Without the opportunity to discuss their policies and beliefs on national television, neither Gary Johnson or Jill Stein are close to winning the ballot this fall. Although a third-party presidential candidate is unlikely to win this election, there are still benefits to voting for one. THE BULLETIN -

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Studies find that voters residing in swing states, or states where the popularity of two major party candidates is very close, are less likely to vote for third-party candidates and “take votes away” from major party candidates, which would ultimately decrease the chances of a major party winning the election. These states include Colorado, Florida, Iowa, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin. However, those who live in nonswing states, or states that will, without a doubt, vote Republican or Democrat this fall, seem to have more flexibility in their choice. Why? Because their vote will most likely not impact the outcome of this election. While this sounds discouraging, voting third-party in these states can illuminate the policies each platform is bringing and increase the possibility of a third-party president in future generations. If you live in a non-swing state and would still like to make your vote count, take a closer look at the Green Party’s liberal policies or the Libertarian Party’s views on limited government power. See for yourself if you would like to support one of the two this fall and help change the United States’ two-party political system.

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by Sara Hameed

The Future of Family Leave By Ruby Samuels

eginning in January of 2017, San Franciscans will be the first parents in America to receive 100% of their salaries while on family leave, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, or biological relationship to the child. The bill, officially named “The Paid Parental Leave for Bonding with New Child Ordinance” (PPLO), allows new parents who have worked for a company of 50 or more employees for at least 180 days to have their entire salary replaced for up to 6 weeks while they care for and bond with their child. Companies of 35 or more employees will receive the same benefits in July, and those with 20 or more employees will be covered in January of 2018.

Illustration by Helen Guo

The PPLO is a big improvement on the already progressive family leave benefits system in California. Up until January, new parents in San Francisco can expect to receive 55% of their salary through an employee-funded insurance system. The PPLO will require employers to pay the remaining 45%. Generous family leave benefits have been winning popularity points for political leaders since the ‘90s, when Bill Clinton signed the Family and Medical Leave Act just two weeks into his administration. Clinton told Politico that his signing of that bill still stands as one of his most popular and most thanked for acts as president. The Family and Medical Leave

Act of 1993 offers job security, but zero income replacement for caregivers and new parents on a 12-week leave. Beyond politics, several companies now offer increasingly generous family leave benefits as a way to attract and retain loyal employees. Netflix, for example,

will offer new parents—both mothers and fathers—unlimited paid leave for a year. The PPLO, however, is specifically targeted at low-income workers whose employers are unable to be so generous. While the lower income employees who are supported by the PPLO are happy, the Small Business Commission in San Francisco is pushing back. Small businesses without Netflix-sized funds are worried about struggling under the PPLO’s manTHE BULLETIN -

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date to replace 45% of their employees’ salaries. Similar concerns were raised in California and New York when the minimum wage began its gradual hike towards $15 per hour by 2018 earlier this year. Another concern that some people have regarding family leave legislation is that there is too much bureaucracy and pushback to achieve similarly progressive gains on the national level. The difficulty of getting national benefits for US citizens is especially clear when you see that other than Papua New Guinea, the United States is the only country on The International Labor Organization’s list of 185 that does not provide any paid parental leave. However, other places in the US are joining San Francisco with similarly progressive family leave benefits. New York, for example, will begin to phase in a new law that replaces 67% of an average employee’s income for up to 12 weeks as long as they have worked company for at least 6 months, cutting the 12-month requirement of the Family and Medical Leave Act in half. The race towards more progressive family leave benefits may be a slow struggle on the national front, but bills like the PPLO and initiatives from companies like Netflix are already beginning to make big differences in the lives of new families.

A&E

by Ishya Verma

MUST SEE LIVE New York City continues to prove itself in 2016 as a centre of the music world, hosting an incredibly varied selection varying from Scottish synthpop to born-and-bred NYC indie pop. Here is a sampling of some of the shows coming to the city this fall.

Oct. 1-2 THE MEADOWS FESTIVAL This two-day

music festival in Queens includes top artists like The Weeknd, Empire of the Sun, Kanye West, Cage the Elephant, Mac Miller, and the Temper Traps, among many others. As a further draw, some of the city’s best food trucks, featuring everything from ramen burgers to boba to vegan barbeque, will be present as well. (Citi Field - Flushing Meadows)

Oct. 1-2 THE ROOTS FESTIVAL Held for the last

nine years in the band’s hometown of Philadelphia, the festival will make its NYC debut in early October. Artists from genres ranging from pop to rock to soul will perform, including John Mayer, Echosmith, X Ambassadors, D’Angelo, and David Bryne. Many of the acts will be backed by The Roots themselves. (Bryant Park)

Oct. 4 ALESSIA CARA The 20-year-old singer/

songwriter skyrocketed to fame with her 2015 single “Here.” (Radio City Music Hall)

Oct. 15 CHVRCHES This Scottish synthpop (a

genre of music featuring the synthesizer as the main instrument) group is best known for its 2013 song “The Mother We Share.” (Radio City Music Hall)

Oct. 18 LUPE FIASCO The rapper will be

performing in the Time’s Square nightclub. (B.B. King Blues Club and Grill)

Oct 25 STORMZY Presenting a vast array of

indie music from around the world, the Bowery Ballroom presents both up and coming and established artists. Stormzy, also known as “Stiff Chocolate,” is popular in the UK, having performed on the BBC and placed several songs on Top 20 charts, but his rap is lesser known in the US. (Bowery Ballroom)

Nov. 2 KERO KERO BONITO British, but heavily

influenced by Japanese pop and culture, this band’s name comes from an onomatopoeic word for frog croaks. (Music Hall ofWilliamsburg)

Nov. 5 BIG QUIET In their own words, “You

but Queen B is worth the trek to New Jersey, where she’ll be performing the final concert of the Formation World Tour. (MetLife Stadium)

don’t take bathroom breaks during Big Quiet’s set.” Still, in this case the venue might be as interesting as the artist: the Cake Shop sells vegan baked goods, as well as used vinyl and CDs. (Cake Shop, Lower East Side)

Oct. 8 GREEN DAY The ‘80s rock band’s per-

Nov 16-17 INGRID MICHAELSON Tickets for

Oct. 7 BEYONCE She won’t be quite in NYC,

formance at Webster Hall should be a smaller, more intimate show than their last NYC concert for tens of thousands at the Barclays Center. (Webster Hall)

Oct. 11 DRAKE He started from the bottom

and now he’s performing for a crowd of over 18,000 in one of Brooklyn’s top venues. (Barclays Center)

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this native New Yorker’s show sold out so quickly that a second had to be added. (Beacon Theatre)

Nov 22 ELLE KING Her recent breakthrough

song “Ex’s and Oh’s” earned her two Grammy nominations, and she is currently touring with the Dixie Chicks. (Beacon Theatre)

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White W

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omen should have equal pay. Women should have the right to their own bodies. Women shouldn’t have to shave their legs, wear makeup, or be fearful walking down the street at night. These are some of the tenants of feminism, but they are not the whole story. The truth is that many feminists walk around in Hazmat suits—focused solely on their own breathing and comfort, patching up any tears in the Teflon with hot pink duct-tape, and enjoying praise for the bravery exhibited in merely setting foot into a wasteland of complexity. And all around them are biohazard signs: “Warning: you are engaging in white feminism. Take the goddamn suit off.” So, what is white feminism? It is the kind of mainstream feminism we encounter on a daily basis. It is the feminism focused solely on white women, and their victories and trials; meanwhile it trivializes and ignores the experiences of women of color. In short, it is feminism that treats race as a separate issue to be touched upon in separate spheres. In 1983, Barbara Smith, a fierce proponent of the Black Feminism movement, explained this difference, saying, “The concept of the simultaneity of oppression is still the crux of a Black feminist understanding” (ISR). This simultaneity is a fact many white feminists choose to ignore. Unfortunately, white feminism is viewed by many as the definitive form

Feminism in the Media

by nicole blackwood

of feminism— even in all its exclusivity—largely due to its perpetuation by the so-called “feminist icons” of mainstream media. Lena Dunham is perhaps the most well-cited example. As creator, star, and writer of HBO’s Girls, Dunham has been lauded by fans and critics alike for the show’s feminist themes and her portrayal of modern womanhood. So, what’s the problem? All the girls in Girls are white, at least the ones with whom the audience is meant to identify. In an NPR interview, Dunham claimed she wanted “to avoid tokenism in casting” and “to avoid rendering an experience [she] can’t speak to accurately” (NPR). Nevertheless, the only experience portrayed is that which white feminists exclusively choose to examine

and now the only experience with which audiences are familiar: her own. There is also the other end of the spectrum—featuring the same Hazmat suit— wherein lies Miley Cyrus. While calling herself “one of the biggest feminists in the world” (Huffington Post) and an emphatic supporter of the #FreeTheNipple movement, Cyrus is still guilty of oppression in the form of cultural approTHE BULLETIN -

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priation. She twerks in music videos in front of black background dancers with whom the audience is almost explicitly not meant to identify (sound familiar?). Wearing gold grills and cornrows, and later shrinking from the criticism of Nicki Minaj, Cyrus is the brand of white feminist who believes that feminism as a concept gives you a free pass to racism— a free pass to always be the victim, and never the problem. Lena Dunham lives comfortably in her hazmat suit. However, true feminism exists not in comfort, but in harsh self-examination and acknowledgment of privilege and intersectional responsibility. Miley Cyrus wears her suit like armor, a shield against criticism and an excuse for ignorance. But feminism is what happens when the tears in Teflon aren’t taped and simplicity is forgone in favor of inclusivity. Feminism is when Hazmat suits give way to human bodies, susceptible to human prejudice. Dunham and Cyrus’s white feminism is a problem not simply for all the ways it oppresses and silences, but for its viral media propagation of a false definition of feminism itself. Time to examine your own hazmat suit. Warning: if you’re white, you are most likely partaking in white feminism to some degree. Warning: intersectional feminism is the only real kind of feminism. Warning: you may be uncomfortable. Warning: it may not be all about you.

What We are Binge Watching This Month:

by Hadar Tanne ness, warmth without sappiness, and strength without forgetting humanity. I would have never thought I would connect so deeply with characters in such a different stage of life, but Fonda and Tomlin make their characters known to you on a deeply personal level. Moreover, it is so refreshing to see a show that deals candidly with being older, with all the wisdom, confusion, love and pain you accumulate in a lifetime. Frankie and Grace don’t have it all figured out despite their age and experience, but they learn with the viewer that it’s quite alright to take each day as it comes as long as you have good, kind friends around. Each episode is around 35 minutes, which is a welcome departure from the too-quick-and-quippy 20-minute comedies, but not as draining as the 45-minute dramas. (Actually, 35 minutes isn’t entirely truthful because you will inevitably find yourself pressing play on the next one, so just count yourself in for the evening.) There are currently two seasons available on Netflix, with the third in the works right now; Fonda and Tomlin are on a campaign to override usual Hollywood timelines and release more than one seaTHE BULLETIN -

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son a year, something they jokingly say is “expedient” given their ages- but something fans think is simply pure logic given the quality and fun the show brings.

Honourable mention:

“Penny Dreadful”

We’ve all gone down the rabbithole binge of “Stranger Things” and lamented how long we’ll have to wait for the second season. My solution: start watching “Penny Dreadful”. Not only is it equally terrifying, weird, and visually compelling, but the third season also recently arrived on Netflix, with episodes hovering around the 50-minute mark (just like our fav). Plus, “Penny Dreadful” is like a slightly more adult version of “Stranger Things”: it involves a misfit group of favourite classic characters (Dorian Grey, Dr. Frankenstein) as well as some who will soon take over to be your favourite, such as the mesmerising Vanessa Ives (played by the inimitable Eva Greenwatch everything she’s in. seriously.), and explores their origins and development in a sci-fi, psychological, mesmerising thriller of a show.

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ou may have heard of them, you may have seen them in various cult classics over the years, but you’ll never truly appreciate the genius of Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin- and the brilliance of pairing them together again (tbt to “9 to 5”)- until you’ve binged “Grace and Frankie” (most likely more than once over). Grace and Frankie are two 70-plus-year-olds who have never much liked each other, but have put up with one another for several decades because their husbands were business partners and close friends. One night their plans for the future, their present, and the past they thought they knew- all changed when their husbands (played by the adorably paired Martin Sheen and Sam Waterstone) announced that they were both leaving their wives to be with each other, the height of an affair that was ongoing for twenty years. “Grace and Frankie” starts off with this bombshell, but it certainly doesn’t stop there. The show makes the viewer feel for everyone involved, even as they recognise flaws and undeniable blame; it manages humour without mean-

Destination Netflix World Travel from your Couch

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here is no doubt that to survive on a college student’s budget, sacrifices must be made. For example, we are far too willing to lug laundry to Columbia in order to save $2.50 a week, or to fill a tote bag with 30 Ben and Jerry’s Mini Cups at the Back to School Barbecue. When it comes to travel, we often find ourselves stuck in the Barnard/Columbia bubble, as even the subway can become too pricy. For those adventurous students who dream to travel the world and leave the comfort of their dorm rooms, here are a few entertainment suggestions to whisk you away from the world of school and books, if only for a couple of hours.

Brooklyn

With Brooklyn only a subway ride away from campus, it might not feel like much of an adventure. However, imagine 1950’s Brooklyn, Irish immigrants and boarding houses: you’ve got the basis for director John Crowley’s Oscar nominated film. Not only does the film provide audiences with insight into the lives of working immigrants in New York City during this influential time period, but it chronicles the lives of those who chose not to cross the Atlantic. Viewers will join Eilis Lacey, the main character portrayed by Saoirse

Ronan, as she leaves her family in Ireland in order to pursue a new life and love in Brooklyn. This film accurately depicts the challenges and successes that immigrants faced as they crossed through Ellis Island and entered into the “New World” that was America.

Slumdog Millionaire

Travel across the world to Mumbai, India during this dramatic romance starring British actor Dev Patel in his breakthrough role. The plot surrounds an 18-year-old orphan named Jamal who is competing in the Indian version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire? With each question comes a flashback of Jamal’s life and eventually a clue to the answer. Filmed entirely in India, this movie is not only authentic, but also beautifully delivers a storyline of struggle and success within a culture quite different from our own on 116th and Broadway.

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

If you’re searching for a long time “travel” commitment, look no further than Netflix and this nonfiction television series. The series is hosted by THE BULLETIN -

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By Lilly Kallman Anthony Bourdain, an American chef and author; however, its focus is very often outside of the United States. Each episode is an adventure in a new city, region, or country, with stunning visuals and commentary by Bourdain. Although one may expect the show to revolve around food, it serves more as a glimpse into diverse cultures and their respective current political issues. With sixty two episodes, viewers can explore places such as Jamaica, the Congo and Shanghai, just to name a few.

Downton Abbey

If you’re a fan of 20th century aristocratic Britain, or if you simply enjoy a good British accent, consider checking out Downton Abbey. Become a member of the Crawley estate as it is influenced by the British social hierarchy and historical events. The show’s six seasons are filled with not only drama and romance for entertainment, but with truthful glances into English life at the time, being filmed at various locations throughout the UK. The series has won numerous awards during its reign, including multiple Golden Globes and Emmys. Next time you don’t feel like taking the train downtown, take a visit to Downton instead.

NYCL

Bites Outside the Bubble

by Sophie Kreitzberg

arlier this summer, I was scrolling through Instagram while waiting for the 1 train (as one does), and came across a video of Natasha Lyonne (a.k.a. Nicky Nichols of Orange Is the New Black) poking at a spread of pierogi and sausage in front of a neon sign that read “UKRAINIAN EAST VILLAGE RESTAURANT” while multiple cameras clicked and flashed at her. Intrigued, I clicked on the location tag and found several other famous faces — Pe-

tra Collins, Hari Nef, and Diana Gordon, among others — posing artfully in front of the same red and blue neon words. What appeared to be a Vogue karaoke event had taken place there mid-July. Despite its visibility on Instagram, Ukrainian East Village Restaurant (which, yes, is called just that) barely has an internet presence at all — there is a four-star Yelp rating, a scrappy AllMenus page, and a couple of other listings, though no website — and can easily be confused with THE BULLETIN -

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Veselka, the bustling spot for UkrainianAmerican faire next door. The exterior of East Village Ukrainian is similarly humble: unnoticeable but for its dusty maroon awning. Entering through its door at the back of a long, interior hallway rather than joining the crowds outside Veselka does not seem like something anyone would do deliberately. When you do deliberately enter, as I suggest you do, you will find a cool, quiet

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UKRANIAN EAST VILLAGE RESTAURANT

Photo by Sophie Kreitzberg

room with wood paneled walls, décor that resembles my great-grandmother’s plastic-covered-furniture aesthetic, and not a fresh vegetable in sight. There is an event hall in the back that looks perfectly dressed up for a ‘70s prom, and the entire restaurant is more or less empty — with maybe three to four tables occupied on a Friday night. Though the menu is extensive — with options including borscht, breaded veal, and basically every combination of potato,

oil, and dough you can think of — on this particular visit to East Village Ukrainian (and, let’s be real, all my future visits to East Village Ukrainian), I came with a purpose: pierogi, also known in Ukrainian cuisine as “varenyky”. You can walk away with a stomach full of eight potato-, cheese-, or meat-filled pockets of heaven for a mere $7.00 (as opposed to Veselka’s price of up to $12.95 for a plate of seven). I am no Slavic food connoisseur, but I am always willing to eat varenyky/pierogi, THE BULLETIN -

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and this is my favorite place to do it. My future wedding reception venue? We’ll see. A great spot to eat greasy food and escape the noise of Manhattan? Most definitely. Ukrainian EastVillage Restaurant is located at 140 2nd Avenue between 8th and 9th.

barnard in the outer boroughs

Long Island City, Queens W By Veronica Suchodolski

Gantry Plaza State Park, which offers breathtaking views of Manhattan from across the East River. There is something therapeutic about gazing at Manhattan from the outside, feeling the salty wind blowing in off the river. The facade of the

city is imposing, but it offers you a sense of scale. The hectic university bubble is

served with a small side salad and half of a pickle. The cafe serves Irving Farm coffee and features different speciality iced teas. If you want something sweet,

Cannelle Patisserie,

such a small part of life in New York City, and taking a step back allows us to consider whether or not our schoolwork is truly as important as we make it out to be. The park also offers green spaces with sweeping willow trees and walkways lined with bushy wild grasses. If you have the time, it is an attractive alternative to Central Park for a picnic or getting some sun. Long Island City offers a number of restaurants and coffeeshops. Whether you are looking for a place to knock out a reading over your meal or to go out for a bite with a friend or two, Communitea is a good choice. The cafe, located at 1118 46th Rd, is spacious, with skylights offering ample natural light. The prices are what you would expect for the city: eight to ten dollars for your choice of breakfast offerings, sandwiches, and salads, and three to four dollars for a drink. The sandwiches are mainly panini-style, THE BULLETIN -

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located at 5-11 47th Ave, has an array of highquality seasonal French pastries. T h e y have a selection of macaroons for two dollars each and a number of small cakes and tartes for three to five dollars each. The bakery offers seating but can get a little noisy. If you want to skip dining in, stop by before you head back to campus so you can enjoy your treat back at home. For galleries within walking distance of Gantry Park, there is the

Jef-

frey Leder Gallery at 21-37 45th Rd and Dorsky Gallery at 1103

45th Ave. Both are free and feature different exhibits of contemporary art throughout the year. If you’re looking for a break from the Upper West Side, Long Island City’s artistic atmosphere and urban sprawl offer a welcome refuge. Putting a river between you and the stresses of campus life provides much-needed room to breathe, making the trek to the outer boroughs well worth your time.

Photography by Veronica Suchodolski

hether you are a returning student or a bright-eyed first year, sometimes it can be difficult to carve out time to step outside the university gates, let alone venture outside of Morningside Heights. The prospect of finding time to make it out to one of the other four boroughs seems almost too daunting to bother considering. That said, leaving Manhattan for a day to explore a new part of the city is an excellent way to de-stress and refresh before you return to campus and dive back into your workload. While you may only think of Queens as that place where you land when you fly back to school or as the scene of MoMA PS1’s Warm Up, it is also home to Long Island City, a residential and commercial neighborhood with waterfront views of Manhattan and a thriving arts community. When you emerge from the 7 train at Vernon Blvd/Jackson Ave in Long Island City, you still feel like you are in a city, although it feels smaller than Manhattan. The streets are a little wider and the buildings are—on average—shorter, mostly built from aging bricks that give the borough a homey vibe. Roughly an eleven minute walk away from the subway stop you will find

best brunch awards By Asiya Jaffer

n NYC, we don’t eat three meals a day; we eat four, the most important of which is brunch. From fluffy pancakes, to eggs any style, to fresh avocado toast, brunch is always a good idea. While certain spots dominate in terms of ambiance, others shine in the aesthetics department, and many have specific dishes that are their forte. If you are looking for a trendy brunch spot with a particular craving or vibe in mind, we have got you covered.

Five Leaves

essarily in Manhattan, (18 Bedford Ave) is for you. Though the lines are long, the pancakes are definitely worth the wait at this corner brunch spot in Greenpoint. Their menu is allencompassing, but their acclaimed dish is the ricotta pancakes (served with honey-

Last but not least, every New Yorker knows

Bluestone Lane (55 Greenwich Ave) is the go-to

It is safe to say that avocado toast has become the food trend of the year, if not decade. Practically all brunch spots have “avo toast” on their menus - it is a must have dish for all brunch-goers. The avocado

The Butcher’s Daughter (19 toast at

Illustration by Helen Guo

Kenmare St), a cute little

cafe on Kenmare Street, is said to be the best in the city - a claim I can personally attest to. Served on whole wheat bread with accents of cilantro, lime, mustard seeds, and an optional farm egg, the sensation of flavors and textures is not only delicious but also 100% healthy. Although we are #blessed to be in such close proximity to amazing pancakes

Community Food and Juice (2893 Broadway), if you’re at

looking for another pancake spot not nec-

of. Their personal specialty is shakshuka, which I would recommend to anyone in the mood for a not-so-basic breakfast. Of Mediterranean origin, this dish usually consists of poached eggs cooked in spiced, simmered tomatoes with challah bread on the side. Freda definitely deserves a pat on her back for that one.

comb butter, banana, blueberries, strawberries, and 100% pure maple syrup), and rightfully so. The pancakes are moist, fluffy, aromatic, and simply delicious. Brunch is unquestionably incomplete without an egg dish of some sort. No restaurant masters eggs any style better than

Jack’s Wife Freda (224

Lafayette St). From shakshuka, to Med-

iterranean breakfast, to eggs benedict, this spot has any egg dish you can think THE BULLETIN -

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spot for a fulfilling brunch… and Instagram photo. This Australian-styled café is well known for its food and equally popular for its vibe and aesthetic. With wooden, marble, distressed or pure white tables, getting a bad gram shot is basically impossible here. Customers also love the outdoor seating option, not only for the fresh air, but also for the lighting! If you’re looking for a place where good food meets good pictures, take a walk down Bluestone Lane. Even though the avocado smash is their best seller, the collective granola is my personal favorite. Countless brunchgoers enjoy the greek yogurt dish topped with homemade oats, coconut chips, seeds, nuts, citrus curd, and fresh berries. Take a break from Butler and go out for brunch next Sunday, especially now that you are informed of the city’s best spots! Bring some friends, take some artsy pictures, and call yourselves The Brady B(r)unch.

The Top 5 Little-Known Coffee Shops in NYC

Earth Cafe Upper West Side 2578 Broadway, New York, NY 10025

Located on 96th and Broadway, this place is just a quick subway ride on the downtown 1 away from Barnard. Earth Cafe is the perfect place to escape campus when you need a breath of fresh coffee or a change of pace. The chai tea lattes are the best I’ve had in NYC, and one of the walls sports a cute map of the places its coffee has come from, giving it a refreshingly earthy, world-traveler vibe.

Happy Bones Nolita 394 Broome St, New York, NY 10013

Effortlessly cool and collected, this tiny Nolita cafe manages to distinguish itself from its coffee shop peers by maintaining an effortlessly cool modernity. Despite its small size, it feels almost cavernous due to its carefully curated use of space and its labyrinthine light fixtures.

Its only drawback is the lack of tables, so make sure you have a backup plan if you’re planning to hit the books. In addition to its excellent coffee, Happy Bones boasts stylish modern decor. Its light fixtures create an enthralling dance of darkness and lightness, and its white marble tables are perfect for your next Instagram feature.

Think Coffee Chain (Downtown) 1 Bleecker Street, Bowery, New York, NY

Though not exactly a secret, Think Coffee is a gem. Open until 11:30pm and in various locations around the NYU area, it is the perfect oasis to curl up in and work, or to procrastinate by snapping photos of the latte art. Plus there is plenty to do around the area; my favorite is located in the beautiful Bowery area, so if you happen to visit, keep your eyes peeled for art galleries and other happenings just around the corner. With its cheery decor and low lighting, Think is the perfect place to get a jumpstart on finding the Sartre to your de Beauvoir, or to begin crafting that novel you have been meaning to start.

The Chipped Cup Harlem 3610 Broadway, New York, New York 10031

One of the few places actually located uptown from Barnard, The Chipped Cup is the perfect place to fall down the rabbit hole of coffee addiction. Its decor is charmingly Wonderland-inspired, and it opens up into a quaint walled garden in the back. The speedy free wifi is also a plus. Their iced coffee is perfectly counter-culture-flavored and will likely be brewed by an authentic Brooklyn hipster. Keep your eyes peeled for the Mad THE BULLETIN -

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Hatter; you will certainly meet some colorful characters here. (While there, I once met a Russian-speaking forensic pathologist who asked me to illustrate for his forthcoming Christmas-horrorinspired children’s book for adults).

Birch Coffee West Village 750 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10025

This quaint, dreamy haunt, about a twenty-minute walk away from the MOMA, is an exquisitely charming escape from the Manhattan hustle and bustle. There is a small nook full of bookshelves perfect for nestling away in on rainy days, as well as many wooden tables decorated with aesthetically pleasing shadows. The coffee is delicious, and the cafe encourages new friendship by offering conversation-starter cards at its counter. It’s the kind of place where you could sit and read philosophy, meet the future love of your life, or sip a cappuccino, and probably feel equally fulfilled.

Honorable Mentions:

Birch Coffee (Lower East Side) Blue Bottle (Brooklyn) Saturday’s (Nolita) Housing Works Bookstore Cafe (Soho) Irving Farm (Upper West Side) Fika (Various locations)

Illustration by Mickey Warshaw

by Eden Gordon or many of us, coffee is a way of life. Luckily, New York is the right city for the caffeine-reliant. Coffee wakes us up in the morning, brings us together, and gets us through the night, and science has even shown that it can have health benefits. Coffee shops in New York are more than just about the Joe, though; they are often masterpieces of design or unexpected hubs of collaboration. The best way to find unknown coffee shops is just to wander around neighborhoods--you’ll find your favorites tucked behind closed doors and down disappearing alleyways. Here are some of my favorites:

How to Fall in Love with The City By Erinn Lee

Digitial Art by Emily Supple

s another year nears its end, the leaves have begun their annual dance. Hues of sunflower yellow, golden red and chestnut brown leaves gather together as an orchestra for a last hurrah before twirling to the ground, ready to rest after their final dance. There will be a point when the city will become home if it is not already; it may come as moment of beautiful revelation, or maybe it will nervously pace at the doorstep wondering if it is okay to come inside. Let the city lights sink in, and look up. Be in love with the concept of being miniscule compared to the skyscrapers. There is not a single day that passes without seeing new faces. Unfamiliarity becomes comfortable. The city will become truly yours if you let it, as long as there is a willingness to explore.

Be spontaneous. Hop on the

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metro just past four and travel downtown. Get off at 42nd Street and wander the theater areas until there is someone standing at the door frantically trying to sell his tickets. Invest yourself fully into the show and in the actors and actresses; understand that they have spent countless hours painting colors with their voices and creating pictures with their bodies. If sitting for a prolonged period

of time is not your forte, make your way down to High Line in October for free stargazing every Tuesday.

Events, festivals, dress up, galore! With the winter

slowly creeping into the city, now is your last chance to take advantage of being outdoors before the cold creeps up behind you. From a NYC Dessert Festival or a Halloween-Artisanal Sweet Treats Bazaar to the Halloween Dog Parade, be bold, adventurous, and ready to indulge in sweets heaven. Take advantage of free events whether that be a scavenger hunt for Free Food Friday (October 7) to free days at the Bronx Zoo every Wednesdays. Do not miss the Halloween Dog Parade where pups and costumes collide in one concentrated area.

Spend a weekend being the ultimate tourist. Gather a

group of friends and buy a map from the campus bookstore or BookCulture to plan a family-style tourist weekend. Let the day be packed enough that walking shoes are a must, and beds will welcome your weary souls graciously at night. Be that person who takes a hundred photos

posing at Times Square. Take the ferry to Liberty Island, and nibble on some long awaited pumpkin spice delights while listening to the tour guide recite the story of the Statue of Liberty. Doll up like Blair Waldorf, from Gossip Girl, with her iconic headband and a cozy fall coat, and sit on the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Indulge in good food and collect quirky souvenirs. Dress up in your favorite jeans and boots with your go-to fall scarf and plan a photoshoot with friends around Manhattan. Wander to the Brooklyn Bridge in the evening.

Let a park bench become appealing. Find a lonely corner

of a park that seems strangely quiet for a bustling city, and bring that book that you found nestled behind a forgotten bookshelf. Let the sun give its final yawn before bidding goodbye with a firework of ambers.The soft lamppost nearby will yawn to life to give off its dreamy glow. The warm weather has slinked back, as the air gets sharper. Watch dogs scamper around heaps of leaves and people fall in love outdoors in the crisp autumn breeze. Use this time to reacquaint with yourself: how has the city changed you?

Stomping Ground A

s the season of puffy coats and snowstorms looms in the not-so-distant future, it is the time to soak up the last warmth of the season in September and October and take advantage of New York City’s outdoor activities, specifically walking tours. These tours are the perfect opportunity to explore a new area of the city (without feeling like one of the tourists on a double-decker bus) and also get some exercise while you are at it. Most of these tours offer discounts for full-time students, making them both affordable and easy.

1. Greenwich Village Food Tour Organized by Free Tours by Foot, this particular tour is unique because it is pay-what-you-like. The tour makes stops at several iconic eateries in the the multicultural neighborhood (including Faiccos Rice Balls, Bleeker Street Pizza, and Molly’s Cupcakes), but you can decide what items you would like to sample, if any at all. The suggested price for snacks is $7-10, so this tour is perfect for a student on a budget who still wants to explore this downtown neighborhood. 2. Tours from the East Village Tenement Museum This museum works to provide visitors with a look into the history of the area and how immigrants shaped its culture. Beyond the museum, walking tours of the neighborhood offer a chance to see what immigrant life was really like. The ‘Buildings on the Lower East Side’ tour ($20 for students) gives the history and architectural background of many buildings in the area, and the ‘Foods of the Lower East Side’ tour ($40 for students) provides an authentic taste of immigrant cuisine, from dumplings to fried plantains. 3. Cupcake Tour of New York For the cupcake aficionado, this tour is also located in Greenwich Village and makes six stops, including the NewYork staple Magnolia Bakery, as well as some smaller establishments. This tour is a bit more pricey at $50, but all of the food is automatically included in the price, and there are always discounts available online at sites like Groupon or Goldstar. 4. Ghosts of New York Prepare in advance for the Halloween season by embarking on one of these spookier walking tours that cover about a mile in 90 minutes. These tours aim to incorporate local lore and history, and a few examples are: “From Ghostbusters to John Lennon:The Ghosts of the Upper West Side” and “Peter Stuyvesant and His Ghostly Friends of the East Village.” Most of the tours are $15 for students, making them yet another affordable option for a weekend outing with friends. 5. Big Onion Tours These tours promise to reveal “New York City’s layered history,” and the company offers historical and food tours across the city in almost every neighborhood, from Chelsea and Central Park to the former “Little Ireland” area and Brooklyn ($15 for students). One of their newest tours is “Art, Sex and Rock&Roll: New York on the Cultural Edge,” and is perfect for music lovers and history buffs alike.

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Illustration by Yinuo (Eno) Chen

By Katherine Leak

One for the Books

By Beth Abbott

The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare

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The Mortal Instruments series follows Clary Fray, a teenager from Brooklyn who discovers there is another world hidden from ordinary humans called the Shadow World, inhabited by creatures such as werewolves, vampires, and faeries. Each of these groups has a neighborhood in New York that is their territory. The Faerie Court is located in Central Park below Turtle Pond, which is located next to the Great Lawn and Belvedere Castle; they are near the 79th street transverse. The locations of the other territories are not as specifically described, but the werewolves live in Chinatown in an abandoned 2nd Precinct police station and the vampires live in an abandoned hotel in Harlem. One of two Shadowhunter havens in the United States is located on the Upper East Side, on York Avenue near 96th street. The Mortal Instruments series is relevant to New York students because, while the Shadow World does not exist, the series reveals a different, darker side to New York. After reading the series, I look at New York, my hometown, and don’t just see buildings and people, but also how a secret and magical world could be hidden within plain sight.

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath The Bell Jar is about Esther Greenwood, a girl from Massachusetts who receives an internship at Ladies Day Magazine in New York City in the summer of 1953. During the first half of the novel, Esther works at the Ladies Day Magazine office; the magazine does not exist, and is actually based off of Mademoiselle Magazine, whose offices are located between 56th and 57th streets on Madison Avenue. Esther ex-

plores the city on her own time; after a night out with Doreen and a DJ, she walks from either the West Village or the Upper West Side back to the Amazon Hotel, which does not exist but is probably based on the Barbizon Hotel located on 63rd Street and Lexington Avenue. She also goes to Bloomingdales, which is on Lexington Avenue and 59th street, to shop for black patent leather shoes, a belt, and a purse. Another location mentioned is the United Nations, located on the East River and 42nd street.

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger The Catcher in the Rye is about Holden Caulfield’s travels through Manhattan, where he reflects on his life so far, as well as his sexuality. Several important events occur at famous locations in the city, including being rejected by Sally Hayes while ice skating at Rockefeller Center, and taking his younger sister, Phoebe THE BULLETIN -

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to the carousel in Central Park, which is located near the 65th street transverse in the middle of the park. Perhaps the most famous location associated with him is not one of the places he actually visits. One of the recurring themes in the novel is whether the ducks in the pond at Central Park stay or migrate during the winter; the pond to which he refers is the Pond located in the south end of Central Park near 59th street.

The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton The House of Mirth is about Lily Bart, a well-off but poor woman who belongs to New York’s elite at the end of the 19th century. This novel is a direct criticism of the merciless nature of upper-class society in New York, and the opulence that came with wealth. To gain background on the society that existed here in New York City during that time period, walk down 5th Avenue’s Museum Mile (from The Museum of the City of New York on 104th street to the Metropolitan Museum of Art on 82nd street) or down 5th Avenue from the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the Plaza Hotel on 59th street.