em Magazine S/S 2010 "7 Deadly Sins" by EM Mag

Volume 10 // Spring 2010

inside this issue...

15 Reasons to Envy Emerson Students dressed to kill:

fashions for every SIN

Deadly sins iSSUE

THE

fashion SEVEN Sins

addicted The

of the First Date

the perfect summer salad

how to avoid

OVERINDULGING at the dining hall

\\ Editor's Letter

Photo // Casey Neidorf

The Seven Deadly Sins When it comes to living a healthy life, it’s all about moderation. Whether it is studying for a test after your late night radio show, shooting a film all weekend long, or rehearsing your lines for hours, Emerson students need to find balance. The Seven Deadly Sins issue is the Emersonian’s guide to living. This issue features “How Not to Overindulge in the DH,” where to find top designer clothes for less, and what one Emerson dorm hoarder is hiding. This issue would not have been possible without our hardworking, talented, and dedicated staff. Everyone raised the bar for this issue and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with the Emerson community. Enjoy!

EM MAGAZINE

Contents //

Emerson Street Seen // 5 Spirit Squad // 7 Emerson’s Team Kicks it into Gear

15 Reasons // 8

Overwhelming to Achieve // 9 The Pros and Cons of Resume Greed

Alternative Spring Break // 10 Rebuilding Cedar Rapids

External Programs // 11 The Taiwan program

Emerson Spirit Squad // 38

Looks

Spring Accessories // 12 New Trends // 13 Four for One // 14 Pampering Hot Spots // 15 Beach Exercises // 16 Tanning at Emerson // 17 Healthy Recipes // 18 High Fashion for Low Prices // 19

Four Looks, One Sash // 14

Photo // Will Van Beckum

Photo // Hope Kauffman

To Envy Emerson Students

Relationships The Question of When //20 The Ins & Outs of Networking // 21 What’s Really The Problem? // 22 The Meaning Behind Pointless Fights

ON THE COVER

To Mooch or Not to Mooch // 23 7 Sins of a First Date // 24

Photos // Gaul Porat Models // Julie Hubbard, Marketing Communications 2012 & Jaqueline Exline, Television Production 2012 Stylist // Justin Reis Clothing // LF Boston

SPRING 2010

Co-Editors in Chief Emily Dyess, Victoria Guerrera Managing Editor Joanna Arpie Editorial Assistants Binsen Gonzalez, Alexandra Gurvitch, Michelle King Founding Editors Andrea Drygas, Faye Brennan

VOLUME 10 | SPRING 2010 EMERSON Editor // Shana Wickett Writers // Emily Geaman, Holly Griffith, Claire Carusillo, Kendall Nelson, Stephanie Thomas, Michael Amato, Catitlin Annand-Baechtel, Alison McCall ENTERTAINMENT Editor // Chrisanne Grise Assistant Editor // Catie Colliton Wtiters // Megan Donovan, Maria Montemayor, Elah Davidson LOOKS Editor // Becky White Writers // Samantha Lawsky, Michelle Gilbert, Natalie Gergely, Olivia Moravec, Amanda Furrer Head Stylist // Justin Reis Assistant to the Head Stylist // Alex Oanono Stylists // Talia Ralph, Michaela McCrink, Richa Gupta FEATURES Editor // Kimya Kavehkar Writers // Michelle King, Michelle Golden, Erin Doolin, Veronica del Rosario, Rheanna Bellomo, Karen Harris RELATIONSHIPS Editor // Lauren Landry Writers // Krista Mastroianni, Courtney Preiss, Evan Sigel, Libby Erlbaum-Rumelt, Irina Grechko

Secretary Emily Holden PHOTOGRAPHY Editor // Casey Neidorf Assistant Editor // Danni Scully Photographers // Valentijn van der Sloot, William Tyner, Gaul Porat, Hope Kauffman, Lauren Kroll, Demetra Lymberis, Molly Adams, Molly Kaplan, Will Van Beckum, Amanda Trock COPY EDITING Head // Diana Filar Staff // Caitlin Bueller, Natalie Casper, Ashley Yee, Michelle Zelman ADVERTISING & MARKETING Director // Chris Somerville Staff // Kate Horn, Nikki Lecuyer, Kendal Peiguss, Celia Nissen, Julie Hubbard, Teodora Kaltcheva, Elizabeth Santana DESIGN Head // Doug Paul Case Staff // Elizabeth Cormack, Jeannie Harrell, Maria Murray, Madeleine Wojdak, Catie Colliton, Justin Reis, Michelle King, Becky White WEB Editor // Elissa Garza Designer // Binsen Gonzalez Writers // Stephanie Thomas, Ariel Knoebel, Bettina Warshaw, Leeanne Smith, Christine Roy, Aleya Miller, Josh Roth, Angie Galan, Christina Roche, Sasha Fastoviskiy, Aimee Carvalho, Karen Harris, Gillian Walters, Matt Haviland, Irinia Grechko, Sarah Daniels

MISSION STATEMENT em magazine is committed to giving Emerson students real life experience in magazine publishing. We serve as a creative outlet for our staff and as an entertaining and informative product for our readers. Each issue is completely student produced and we seek to use the wide range of talent from Emerson students. Each issue focuses on the lifestyle of Emerson students, because we think Emerson is a unique place full of unique people! em magazine is published once per semester by students at Emerson College in Boston, MA, and is distributed for free on campus. To contact em magazine, email us at emmagonline@gmail.com. We appreciate your feedback! Visit our website at www.emmagonline.com. ÂŠ 2010 em magazine Emerson College 150 Boylston Street Boston, MA 02116

SPECIAL THANKS Emerson College, Sharon Duffy, Kathleen Duggan, William Beuttler, Lisa Diercks, SGA

Contents //

Entertainment Roxbury Crossing

SINister Characters // 30 Avoiding DH Gluttony// 31 Artist Advocacy Network // 32 The Stereo Flys // 26

Features Hot Shots // 33 Featuring Alumni Katie Ward & Brendan McCarthy

Over the Limit // 35

An Emersonian Confesses Her Addiction to Fashion

Dorm Hoarders // 37

Alexandra Gurvitch: The Miss Behind the Mess

Stress: When is it Too Much?// 38 Kevin to Kaylee// 39 Becoming Najya Nawasi // 40 Profiles: Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Sins in Moderation // 42 Seven Deadly Sins Meets Spring Fashion // 46

Dorm Hoarders // 37 SPRING 2010

Photo // William Tyner

Photo // Molly Adams

Movies & Music for Every Sin// 25 The Stereo Flys // 26 Emerson Bands That Made It Big // 27 Boston Burroughs // 28

\\ Emerson KELLEY ZHENEY // INTERNATIONAL TRADING // 2010

KELLEY POLCER // WLP // 2010

MIRIAH McFARLANE // THEATRE STUDIES // 2013

YURIE COLLINS // THEATRE // 2012

LAUREN SHUEY // BROADCAST JOURNALISM // 2010

KATHLEE CLEVELAND // WLP // 2010

JUSTIN REIS // MARKETING // 2013

QUINN FARIEL // WLP // 2013

Emerson //

STREET

GIULIANA HAZELWOOD // FILM PRODUCTION // 2013

KAYE BREEMAN // FILM // 2011

SEEN TRACY BRICKMAN // WLP // 2012

VERONICA BAKER // MARKETING // 2010

Photos // Hope Kauffman, Amanda Trock

GABRIEL WANG // COMM. SCIENCES // 2012

\\ Emerson

Text // Emily Geaman | Photo // Hope Kauffman

Emerson Spirit Squad Kicks Into High Gear “L

Text // Kendall Nelson

ions! Let’s go! Purple! Gold! And white! We want to hear you roar!” Spirit? At Emerson College? Juniors Brittany Perro and Kayla Harrity, founders and co-captains of the Emerson Lions Spirit Squad, always knew the pride was there. Last fall, they brought cheerleading back to the college after the former team disbanded in 2003. Student response to a Facebook group Perro and Harrity created confirmed they weren’t alone in their desire to start a cheerleading team at Emerson, so they approached the athletics department, secured teammates, and chose an advisor. After only a few weeks of practice, the hopeful cheerleaders auditioned for the Athletics Department, which approved their routines for men’s and women’s basketball games. It seemed they were succeeding, but just before the team’s first official performance, things changed. “Initially they told us we could stunt,” or lift and toss cheerleaders, says Harrity, Broadcast Journalism, Class of 2011. “Then three days

before our first game, they told us we couldn’t anymore.” Because cheerleading is the second most dangerous sport after football, it’s a huge insurance liability that the college does not support. The Athletics Department told Perro and Harrity the group couldn’t be recognized as a cheerleading team. “[Cheerleading] is something that’s been around for a while, and it’s something that’s been dangerous for a while,” says Roger Crosley, Emerson’s NCAA compliance coordinator. “We aren’t willing to put our students at that kind of risk.” “It’s frustrating,” Harrity says. “We knew where they were coming from, but we didn’t want to agree with them.” This changed things dramatically for a group that choreographed its routines around stunts and called itself a cheerleading team. Since it cannot be officially recognized as such, it’s called a spirit squad instead. A few members with strong cheerleading backgrounds quit the squad when they found out they couldn’t stunt, a move Perro and Harrity say they understood. Despite the lack of stunts and name change,

Harrity says, “People know we’re cheerleaders.” “It’s really turned us into a real team,” says Perro, Communication Studies, Class of 2011. The spirit squad is made up of one boy and 13 girls. It has no coach, no uniforms, and no place to practice, but its members are making the most out of their time together. They practice free of charge twice per week at the Boylston Street Athletic Club, a non-profit organization, and paid out of pocket for the makeshift uniforms they’ve created, which include purple shorts, screen-printed T-shirts, sneakers, and hair bows Perro and Harrity made. After months of fund raising efforts, the team is finally in the process of purchasing official uniforms. “We can’t perform in what we have,” Perro says. “If we want to be taken seriously, we have to take ourselves seriously. No cheer team that’s legitimate would ever go without uniforms.” While many obstacles have come with the squad’s goals, Perro and Harrity are not giving up on making it something big. They plan to pursue gaining recognition as a campus organi-

zation through the Student Government Association, which would allow them to appeal for funding and get practice space on campus, Perro says. And the team already has a lot in store. The athletics department has asked it to perform at volleyball games, and it cheered at a Boston Blazers lacrosse game after show at the T.D. Banknorth Garden in early April. In addition to these opportunities, it’ll continue to energize Emerson Lions basketball fans with its half-time performances. “There’s so much more spirit now, and I’d like to think it’s because of us,” Harrity says. Though the team is not sure what exactly lies ahead, its members are confident. A number of prospective Emerson students have already contacted them about joining. “Just to know that this is going to be going somewhere and that it’s not going to end when we leave—that makes me so happy,” Perro says. “I’m very hopeful for this team, and I think it’s going to be something nobody ever expected.”

Emersonians have plenty to be proud of. These statistics prove that we have talent, style, and brains! Statistics courtesy of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions Incoming GPA 2009: 3.3 on 4.0 scale 2008: 3.6 on 4.0 scale 2007: 3.62 on 4.0 scale

Average SAT scores 2009: 1720-1950 2008: 1730-1970 2007: 1750-1970

EM MAGAZINE

Percent Admitted 2009: 47% 2008: 64% 2007: 36%

Overall College GPA 2009: 3.4 on 4.0 scale 2008: 3.38 on 4.0 scale 2007: 3.45 on 4.0 scale

Emerson //

15to Envy REASONS Emerson Students Text // Stephanie Thomas

While other college students are busy cramming for physics tests and sitting in 200-seat lecture halls, Emersonians can be found singing in practice rooms or taking notes in “Deconstructing TV’s Buffy.” If that’s not enough to envy Emerson students, here are 15 reasons straight from the source.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Q&A

Who do you envy at Emerson and why? Text // Kendall Nelson

It’s easy to be jealous of the girl in the fitness center who sprints a mile on the treadmill and just doesn’t break a sweat, or to feel a twinge of

“The world revolves around us. We know what we want to do with our lives.” Andrew Boyce // Film Production // Class of 2012 “Because we have confidence, and we are not afraid to be different. Our school isn’t the way that most normal colleges are, and instead of fighting it, the school embraces it.” Abigail Lewis // Post-production // Class of 2013

envy toward that guy whose black-framed, nonprescription classes are significantly more fly than yours. Emersonians didn’t hesitate to spill their inner jealousies and told em who turns them green with envy. You may be surprised - or not at all - by the peers and faculty members students chose.

“Emerson students are really good at networking. When you meet someone, you build a team of people who can help you, and you can return the favor.” Jenna Flamberg // Film Production // Class of 2012

“All the girls at this school with dreadlocks!” Sarah Schneider // WLP // Class of 2013

“Everyone who I have met here, for the most part, is really dedicated to what they’re doing. It is helpful to keep yourself in check, and it is also really admirable. Everyone has the same passions as I do.” Emily Murphy // Writing, Literature & Publishing // Class of 2013

“Jackie Liebergott, because I wish I made $700,000 a year.” Guy Ben-Aharon // Theatre Studies // Class of 2012

“Because all of our teachers are working professionals.” Chelsea Williams // BFA Musical Theatre // Class of 2012 “Kids here have motivation, and combined with artistic talent and the networking that the school champions, we’re kind of a threat.” Dara Continenza // Writing, Literature & Publishing // Class of 2010 “Because Emerson is so specialized in its fields of study, the classes offered here are rarely found at other schools.” Molly Marcot // Writing, Literature & Publishing // Class of 2012 “Because we work hard, and we play hard, as opposed to just working hard.” Melody Conte // Writing for Film & Television // Class of 2011 “Emerson is the greatest school in the world because of the way it inspires its students. I came into this school not knowing a thing about production, and I now feel like I’m really ready to start my career as an editor.” Sam Crimmins // Studio Television Production // Class of 2010 “Where else can you go to get two-hour therapy sessions in creative writing and be required to cry as part of an acting class? Nowhere.” Sarah Wolford // Communication Sciences & Disorders // Class of 2010 “We dress well and are ridiculously good looking.” Annalisa DiVito // Marketing Communication // Class of 2013 “[Professors] talk to us, not at us. They care about more than just a paycheck.” Michael Niederer // BFA Musical Theatre // Class of 2012 “We get to take classes in our major right away without having to waste time on getting gen. ed’s first.” Kelcy Scolnick // Documentary Production // Class of 2011 “Because we have no science or math-orientated majors.” Madison Scolnick // Marketing Communication // Class of 2013 “Other students should be jealous of Emerson students for two reasons: Because God says so, and we have Twitter accounts.” Blake Wexler // Broadcast Journalism // Class of 2011

SPRING 2010

“The blonde girl that always goes to the 12th floor of the LB, because she’s always carrying a Juicy or some brand name bag.” Elise Pie // Communication Disorders // Class of 2012 “Ladette Randolph. She’s the editor-in-chief of Ploughshares, and she gets to run fiction writing workshops here. That’s the life I want in 20 years.” Doug Paul Case // WLP // Class of 2011 “My roommate [Claire Carusillo, WLP, Class of 2013] because she has the best style in the world. She is driven and motivated, and she never procrastinates. I went to boarding school, and I have never liked a roommate before!” Melissa Cay Jesser // BFA Acting // Class of 2013 “I guess it would be those that have these huge connections with people who are able to buy them expensive software. I don’t come from a family with massive connections or that is rich. Because they have these things, they’re able to be just a step ahead.” Matt Zakrzewski // WLP // Class of 2012 “Professor Dulgarian because people actually believe his British accent. I could never pull that off.” Samantha Tincler // WLP // Class of 2012

\\ Emerson

Overwhelming to Achieve:

Q&A

What is your stress craving?

The Pros and Cons of Resumé Greed

Text // Michael Amato Every Emersonian has an inner pregnant woman craving some weird food combination, whether it’s anchovies and ice cream or chocolate and pickles. We are all guilty of pounding down the hickory barbecue potato chips and being brownie-batter-bowllickers when stressed. So fess up: What’s stashed in your cabinets? “I have one guilty craving, which I can’t eat anymore: [Little Debbie] Cosmic Brownies. When I’m upset, I don’t care if I get fat; I just eat. Right now, I’m hooked on Hershey’s cream pie.” Julie Marshall // Writing, Literature & Publishing // Class of 2010 “Sour Punch Straws, sour octopus, not Sour Patch Kids—something really sour. It doesn’t make me happier, but I get my fix.” Debbie Lee // Marketing Communication // Class of 2011 “It really depends on the day, what I haven’t eaten in a long time. I ate a bacon, egg and cheese [sandwich] earlier today, so right now I’m craving an apple.” Brian Moynihan // Writing, Literature & Publishing // Class of 2010 “It would have been bread and ice cream, but I have a dairy and wheat allergy...but I do like chocolate—dark chocolate.” Arielle Waldman // Writing, Literature & Publishing // Class of 2011 “I like Sour Patch Watermelons. I don’t think it’s the candy that changes my mood. It’s what I do, which is lay on my bed, watch TV, and eat. It’s the process.” Kristyn McCarthy // Writing for Film & Television // Class of 2012 “Gin is what I generally crave on a bad day—I’m a gin girl. I also like a burrito.” Joanna Vogel // Writing, Literature & Publishing // Class of 2011

Text // Claire Carusillo, Assisted by Melissa Park | Photo courtesy of photoglass.com

ur little black Moleskine notebooks have taken a beating. The leather is fading, the page corners are crumpling, and the papers we’ve stuffed inside are bursting out of the bindings. The elastic band is so stretched that it can’t hold everything in any longer—nor can our Blackberries or iCals. Emerson students, in short, are overcommitted. Emerson is a competitive niche school. We all have distinct (and mostly tough-toattain) careers in mind, and we’re driven to do whatever it takes to get them. We prove we can be professional by filling our schedules not only with classes and schoolwork, but also with part-time jobs, demanding positions in extracurricular activities, and internships tailored to our majors. An entire educational career at Emerson comes down to one document: the resumé. Matthew Small, assistant director of Career Services, regularly gives students career advice and resumé reviews. Career Services offers resumé review walk-ins and appointments, and hosts an internship fair each semester with 50 companies looking to hire. “Our high utilization rate at Career Services indicates that students are serious about planning for their careers,” Small said in an e-mail. “While 85% of students intern for credit at some point, it’s likely that nearly all students complete internships.” Take it from Jessica Saint Jean, Writing, Literature & Publishing, Class of 2011, a Moleskine carrier. Saint Jean is a shift leader at the Campus Commons (one of those radiant, purple polo-wearing students who works at the information booth in the Piano Row lobby), head copy editor for The Emersonian, a member of Undergraduate Students for Publishing, and an editorial online intern at the Pohly Company, a custom publishing house in Boston. Saint Jean is also graduating early. “I want to leave in three years feeling like I was here for four years,” she said. Saint Jean feels the pressure to get ahead of her peers. She needs a strong resumé, and she needs it fast. “It’s a city of students, and we all want the same thing,” she said. Nick Coit, Broadcast Journalism, Class of 2011, said he notices the most competition among peers in his major. “Everybody is trying to gun for the same jobs, so everyone is trying to better themselves [in comparison] to the people they know,” said Coit, whose resumé is a laundry list of acronyms (RA, WERS radio anchor, ETIN radio host, EIV News sports anchor, panelist on EIV’s Unsportsmanlike Conduct, and saxophone player for the

EM MAGAZINE

Boston College marching and pep band). It’s a pattern Emerson students follow: Do everything, do it well, and get a job. Sharon Duffy, Associate Dean of Students, says the administration encourages Emerson students’ motivation for success. “We, as a college, tell students how important it is to network, diversify, and challenge themselves,” she explains. “It is wonderful to see that happen.” And Emerson students’ professionalism certainly shows in the real world. “Internship sites have had such positive experiences with Emerson students that they seek [them] out for placement,” Duffy said. But Duffy said she has also noticed that Emerson students swamp themselves with work, minimizing the value of sleep, health, and hygiene to get it all done. “I constantly ask students if they feel they are overcommitted, and the answer, more often than not, is ‘yes,’” she said. Coit is one of those students, though he said he doesn’t always mind it.“I feel that way because the schedule gets really hefty, and there aren’t a ton of time sometimes to take a break,” Coit said, but added, “I like to get committed now and really delve into school.” So is it worth it? The average college student looks for work experience and hopes to get a foot in the door, while an Emerson student jams in a metaphorical foot there. It all pays off when the door finally opens.

“It’s a pattern Emerson students follow: Do everything, do it well, and get a job.”

Emerson // 10

Alternative Spring Break: Rebuilding Cedar Rapids

Text // Caitlin Annand-Baechtel | Photos // Cherylynn Tsushima

tepping off the plane into a two-gate terminal, I could see nothing but flat land, rolling off into a vast expanse. At first glance, nothing seemed amiss in this Middle American town. On the surface, I couldn’t see the devastation lurking beneath the serene farmland façade. When a massive flood tore through Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in May 2008, the region was confronted with a major natural disaster. Residents learned quickly that disaster is never simple. A torrent of floodwater is dangerous, but it causes much more damage beyond the first blow. Surging currents become stagnant. Mold thrives on walls and in the air, and families and business owners are left with no choice but to tear down their uninhabitable homes and decaying storefronts. After the deluge, 10 square miles of Cedar Rapids were under 31.6 feet of water. The last time the water crested that high and spread that far in the area was over 500 years ago. Miraculously, few were injured, and no one was killed. However, the downtown business district was submerged, and the entire city’s economy went down with it; whole neighborhoods were wiped out and are still waiting to be rebuilt. But fifteen Emerson students who dedicated their spring breaks to community service

instead of beachside cocktails—to physical work instead of leisure—were there to lend 30 helping hands. For the third year in a row, Emerson’s Alternative Spring Break program sent groups of Emerson students to work with various communities on issues running the gamut from post-Hurricane Ike disaster relief in Texas to homelessness in Washington, D.C. This spring, one group of ASB team members—including myself—flew to Iowa. “But what’s in Iowa?” Faced with this question every time my plans for spring break came up in conversation, I started to doubt my own reasons for heading to a state known for growing corn. It didn’t seem likely that Iowa—“America’s Heartland”—would hold the same excitement as Cancun or Key West. But that was just it: I knew I was in for an experience at odds with the typical collegiate spring break. Throughout the entire week, we facilitated some aspect of the rebuilding process and experienced firsthand the reviving of meaningful shelter. We were lucky enough to work on one particular house for the majority of the week: the Anderson House. We tore down the walls of this very small house on a very large block, ripped out its ceiling, removed the bathroom fixtures, cleaned out the insulation and prepared it for rebuilding. Under

SPRING 2010

the skilled guidance of Steve, our AmeriCorps representative, our hands shaped a man’s home. Steve was a thin, white-haired, 60-something-year-old serving his second year in AmeriCorps, a federal program dedicated to civic education and public service. His unassuming nature quickly captivated us. After being diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease six months earlier, Steve decided to dedicate the last years of his life to service. With volunteer teams ranging from two people to twenty, he quietly guided the recovery efforts for a city he had called home for more than 30 years. After spending the better half of a morning tearing out a bathtub with a crowbar, a simple nod and an occasional “Good” from Steve were all I needed to feel fulfilled for the day. We left Cedar Rapids with one house ready for insulation, another ready for dry wall, a basement ready for a coat of primer, a stairway set with a new frame, and the siding of a house ready for painting. We knew that we, as Emerson College students, staked a tangible claim in the resurrection of an entire community. Cedar Rapids is coming back, one house, one business, and one neighborhood at a time. That’s what’s in Iowa.

11 \\ Emerson

TRAVELING ABROAD:

The Taiwan Study Program Text // Alison McCall | Photos // Kristy Hart

FOOD

hih Hsin University is Emerson’s small, communication-focused sister school on the island

of Taiwan, off the southern coast of China. Emerson students can study in the capital city of Taipei for a semester, surrounding themselves in rich culture and traveling to places unlike any in the United States.

CLASS

Emersonians don’t choose the Taiwan program for the classwork. Aside from the Mandarin Chinese course, classes taught in English provide fewer credits and are limited, very simple, and designed to help Shih Hsin students practice their English skills. More rewarding is the job Emerson students are required to take, tutoring Shih Hsin students in English. For a few hours every weekday, Emerson students talk with Shih Hsin students, introduce new vocabulary, and improve the students’ confidence.

7 Castle Sins

Be brave, and try everything that’s served. There are some unexpectedly delicious or strange finds, like fried flowers (tasty), chicken hearts on a stick (good), and pig’s blood and rice (not so good). But be warned: New Taiwanese friends often believe the stereotype that Americans enjoy fast food, and Emersonians unknowingly end up eating the Chinese equivalent.

TRAVEL

Do it. High-speed trains take just four hours to traverse Taiwan and are within walking distance of the university; the subway system brings students anywhere on the island, to teahouses, hot springs, the zoo, and more. Visit the southern end of the island, where the culture is the richest, and cruise up and down the mountains on motorized scooters. Or head eastward to Taroko Gorge, the Asian equivalent to the Grand Canyon. Outside of Taiwan, there are many more places to explore, like Japan and Thailand.

NIGHTLIFE

While night markets are open during limited daylight hours, they shine at night. They stand just outside the university and in different sections of the city and island, where hundreds of vendors crowd narrow streets. Taiwan is also shockingly safe. Dark alleys often reward the curious not with creepers but with cultural gems: more restaurants, unconventional stores, and better prices. Bargaining is key, and Shih Hsin students teach Emersonians how to haggle. The drinking age in Taiwan is 18, and bars and nightclubs aren’t so different from those in America. Shih Hsin students are very focused on their studies, so make an effort to drag out some new friends.

LANGUAGE

The primary language spoken in Taiwan is Mandarin Chinese, so Emerson students attend a Mandarin course three times per week. Pay attention—though English is printed on major signs, most of the Taiwanese don’t speak English.

Text // Holly Griffith

Emerson's study abroad program at Kasteel Well, the Netherlands, entertains its own little ecosystem, with its own set of rules and expectations. Naturally, gallivanting throughout Europe with 80 other Emerson students means some forbidden behaviors are sure follow. With the right balance of impulsive adventure and cautious foresight, any Emerson student can travel without a hint of guilt.

Lust: Pride: Wrath: While Greed: Sloth: While Who wouldn't traveling, Some stuWith frerenowned want to spend things will dents try quent classes, a romantic monuments inevitably to cram too rushed make for evening walkwill go wrong. much into homework, killer Face- ing along the Trains are one weekand travelbook photos, River Seine in missed, flights end, but it's ing frenzies Paris? While are overimpossible in between, it's easy to get European caught up in booked, and to see each a weekend traveling to flings are fun, taxis get lost. city's main spent at But things attractions in the Castle places just be- some students almost always three days' is worth it. cause they’re focus all their social efforts work out, so time. Taking Some stu- famous. More on snagging there's no use the time to dents opt to authentic experiences in potential love in wasting people-watch rent bikes and interests. the time or can be a more spend the day not-so-popular energy to get engaging way in Well, or cities like Kra- Don't neglect opportunikow, Poland, upset and to soak up a take day trips ties to spend ruining what city's culture to nearby and Cologne, time getting Germany, could be a than pacing destinations. are the most to know other great week- through every fascinating rewarding to end. museum. people. enjoy.

Envy: Some students can afford more extravagant trips, while others can only enjoy low-key or local trips. Put everything into perspective: No matter where you travel, you'll find things you've never seen or done before, and many would kill to be in your shoes.

EM MAGAZINE

Gluttony: On every trip's agenda is one primary attraction: food. But every bite of French brie or German schnitzel can quickly empty a wallet. Some students book hostels that have guest kitchens, where they can prepare inexpensive meals. Others splurge on one great meal in each city.

Q&A

Do Emerson Students Have Enough Pride?

Text // Michael Amato We may be the lions, but are our roars fierce enough for everyone to hear? Do we treat our campus like Pride Rock, or just an average piece of Boston’s urban savannah? “I think Emerson students are all here because we all have a similar drive and passion, which gives us a sense of pride and unity.” Andrea Kraft // Film Production // Class of 2011 “We definitely have a sense of community here that isn’t so much about rallying around a sports team or things like that but more of knowing we are all here for similar things and interests.” Katelyn Sullivan // WLP // Class of 2013 “I think it’s 50/50 because half the people are very happy and content where they are, and the other half wishes they didn’t come. The people, though, that stay are content and should be proud.” Bijal Patel // Marketing Communication // Class of 2011

Looks // 12 Text // Justin Reis Photo // Will Van Beckum Stylists // Justin Reis, Becky White Accessories // The Tannery, Alexis Bittar, Holiday

BEBold!

Be Gluttonous With This Seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bold Accessories This spring take a page from the books' of designers like Jack and Lazaro at Proenza Schouler, Phillip Lim, and of course, Marc Jacobs at Louis Vuitton and choose bold and bright accessories to compliment the more neutral, girlier, and clean looks of the season. Bright colored lucite bangles, like those provided by Alexis Bittar, and metallic studs in both bracelets and earrings are perfect to accent layered laces and soft silks while beaded tribal touches effortlessly add to clean summer suits like those shown by Frida Giannini at Gucci and Michael Kors at his namesake line. Finally, add that final touch to your wardrobe this season with an edgier pair of sunglasses. Try those by Alexander Wang, Giorgio Armani at his Emporio line, or my favorite of the season, Dries Van Noten's safari chic shades.

SPRING 2010

13 \\ Looks

an appreciation for the

trenchcoattrend

Text // Amanda Furrer | Photos // Danni Scully Model// Alex Hammarth | Stylists // Alex Oanono, Michaela McCrink, Talia Ralph

I wouldn’t call my past relationship with the trench coat sentimental. I used to own the typical long khaki trench coat when I was fifteen: an impulse buy that went to a thrift shop after it collected dust and wrinkles. So, when told trench coats were making a comeback, I wondered, can I possibly find it within myself to have trench coat appreciation? In the trench coat’s favor, its style isn’t strictly khaki and not all trench coat wearers resemble Rorschach from The Watchmen. Over the decades, designers have created a much more fashionable trench. Cotton or satin, pink or checkered, with a fur collar or cropped above the knee, there’s a trench coat for all personalities.

One must also consider the iconic women who’ve donned the trench coat in popular culture. Putting dim-witted Inspector Gadget aside, there’s the stealthy Carmen Sandiego in her red trench coat and matching fedora. In Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Holly

“

Over the decades, designers have created a much more fashionable trench.

”

Golightly and Paul Varjak were both wearing trench coats during the movie’s romantic finale as they kissed in the rain. And in the film Paris, Je T’aime, a man is so enamored with his red-trench-coatwearing wife, that he falls into an “emotional coma” after her death, his heart lurching every time he sees

Text // Natalie Gergely

fashion Q&A Q: I know clogs are back in style for spring/summer 2010. How can I look cute in them? A: Yes, it’s true—Louis Vuitton and Chanel are doing it, and that means that pretty soon everyone will be. But these aren’t just your average Dr. Scholls. Though reminiscent of the seventies style clog, this season’s clogs

are taking a different direction. They aren’t meant to be classy or feminine, but can funk up any outfit. Wear them with the unexpected, such as longer shorts, short pleated skirts, rompers, and short dresses. Just keep the silhouette loose, and make sure not to wear anything too slim fitting.

a red trench. With this newfound knowledge, I shed my heavy winter bomber and tried wearing a white trench, perhaps a little too eager to transition into my spring wardrobe. It seemed more of a novelty item than a practical coat. However, after garnering compliments from classmates and strangers, I began to see the trench coat in a different light. Oh, this old thing? I’ve had it for a couple of years. Despite the overcast afternoon and relentless gusts of wind, I strutted on the sidewalk to my next class in my perhaps impractical, but definitely fashionable, trench coat. Q: What are the hottest accessories for spring/summer 2010? A: Lady Gaga may have seemed to be actin’ a fool by sporting her infamous bow made out of (what looks like) her own hair, among many other of her creative ‘hair enhancing’ concoctions, but it turns out that she actually made a good call. This spring and summer, if

For a trendier jacket such as Phillip Lim’s interpretation for Gap, stick to a classic piece underneath such as this Rag & Bone shirtdress. Pair the classic with a heel like Acne’s patent pump to maintain some intrigue and flirtation.

For a more feminine jacket, try pairing your trench with cuffed jeans and a strong sandal. A modern gladiator, like the one pictured by Cynthia Vincent, will contrast the soft aesthetics and provide an extra kick to the outfit. Cuff the jacket’s sleeves to take your look up a notch.

Pair a more structured boyfriend jacket with a sexy pair of short shorts or a body con skirt. Tucking a V neck into the shorts will project a feminine shape underneath the boxier jacket.

it sticks off your head, chances are it’s in. Chanel featured “Marie-Antoinette” bows, Dolce and Gabbana featured jeweled combs, and Jeremy Scott was all about mouse ears. Headbands with flowers and bows are all the rage this season--Kate Spade, Juicy Coutoure, and Felix Rey are featuring colorful varieties-- and Urban Outfitters has a wide variety as well.

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Q: I really loved how Dior Homme featured blacks and neutrals. Can I go in that direction for spring or do I have to stick to brights? A: Though many designers showcased vibrant colors, floral patterns, and loud patterns for spring and summer, many designers are keeping it simple with neutral tones. The Olsen’s “The Row” was almost entirely black,

Gucci featured shades of white and gray, and D&G explored their hippie side with a line of dresses that were exclusively white. Zara has done a great job of making these looks more affordable with a wide array of cream tops, frocks and jackets. So, though Marc Jacobs and Versace are waging an attack of bright colors this season, feel free to feel comfortable in your neutrals.

4looks 1

Looks // 14 Shorts Era of Chaos / LF ($168) Ring Alexis Butler Clogs Matiko Shirt Model’s Own Sash Belt American Apparel

If you’re one of the many who aren’t going to be spending much of your time at the beach, there’s a million other ways to incorporate your sash into a summery look. You can wear the sash as a belt tied off into a bow with denim shorts and a flannel, showing that you’re ready to kick it without over doing it. You’ll look casual, but still integrate a little more life into your outfit.

Dress Elizabeth + James / The Tannery All Bangles Bittar Wedges Dolce Vita Shirt Model’s Own Gold Sash American Apparel ($24) Night owls can wear the trendy accessory too. Use one of your plain little black dresses as a base for a shimmery big-belted or bowed waste line. Your sash will bring out your femininity, and your curves, with merely the tie of a bow. You can go out with the ladies or your man looking fashionable and sexy.

The simple way to wear a long sash is as a headband, giving its model a unique, indie look. Headbands have been around forever, but not everyone thinks of bringing back the head wrap. They can be worn on the beach, with jeans and a tee shirt, or with your most sophisticated outfit to give it a stylish flair. Gold Sash ($24) American Apparel Tee Rag+Bone / The Tannery Blazer Elizabeth + James / The Tannery Leggings Rag + Bone / The Tannery Shoes ($268) LF

Tie the sash around your trendiest sun hat, and rock it at the beach with a swimsuit. Sun hats show your style while protecting your face from unwanted sun damage. A colorful sash around your hat will accentuate your playful nature and show everyone that you’re ready to have some fun in the sun. Sash American Apparel ($16) Hat LF ($68) Sunglasses Marc Jacobs / The Tannery Cover-Up ($128) Chandeleir / LF Shoes Dolce Vita / LF Bangles ($22) Holiday

1accessory

SPRING 2010

Text // Olivia Moravec | Photos // Will Van Beckum Model // Liz Browner | Stylists // Justin Reis, Alex Oanono, Michaela McCrink, Talia Ralph

15 \\ Looks

Joi Salon

6 ways to

North End 2 Atlantic Ave.

A five minute stroll from Quincy Market, this salon and spa has an organic feel and is a real treasure by the waterfront. Haircuts range from $35 to $80, while eyebrow shaping runs from $20 to $25. Pamper dull hair with a gloss treatment, or spruce up your locks with warm tones to enhance your natural color. Besides Aveda and Bumble and Bumble products, Joi also sells Moroccan Oil which is great for hydration and restores damaged hair. Beauty Tip: For skin, there are three basics to always follow: exfoliate, hydrate, protect. Exfoliate two to three times a week with a gentle scrub that contains Vitamin E and retinol. Use a rich night cream before bed and day cream with 60 SPF. You should also see a facialist three or four times a year to clear your pores of toxins. “It’s like going to the dentist [for a checkup],” says a receptionist at Joi. Text // Amanda Furrer | Photos // Lauren Kroll

Pamper yourself without thinning your wallet Salon Euphoria

Floyd’s 99 Barbershop

Downtown 44 School St.

Back Bay 189 Massachusetts Ave.

work out without working out

Trying to get to class? Take the stairs. It seems obvious, but when you’re facing 4 flights, the 60 calories you could burn in just 5 minutes isn’t always on your mind.

Start your morning off with some coffee, or caffeinated green or black tea. In fact, have several cups throughout the day. The caffeine in one cup can increase your metabolic rate by 30 percent.

Text // Michelle Gilbert Ice cold water

3 and spicy foods

are two more calorie killers. Drinking 8 glasses of ice cold water burns 70 more calories than room temperature water, and eating spicy foods can raise your metabolism 1220 percent for up to 2 hours. Clean your room! General cleaning, such as dusting, can burn 100 calories in just half an hour, sweeping up to 110 calories. Why not blast some music and dance while you clean, increasing the burn that much more?

James Joseph Studio Back Bay 168 Newbury St.

Cozy and homey, Salon Euphoria is described by its staff as “mainstream-meetsNewbury.” The salon offers wine and snacks during your appointment for a truly relaxing and soothing experience. Suffolk and Emerson students receive a 20 percent discount on all hair services and hair care products. For $40 you can get a wet cut, and for $60 you can get a cut and blow-dry. After six brow waxings (priced at $15), you can get the seventh for free. Make yourself yummier with a pumpkin, cherry, or cranberry power peel for 45 minutes at $50. Salon Euphoria also offers gentleman’s facials for $60. Beauty Tip: Don’t wash your hair everyday or you’ll dry it out. Instead, wash it every two to three days with a good quality shampoo and conditioner. And moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

Don’t let the name deter you, ladies, Floyd’s is male and female friendly. Decorated with posters of rock bands and furnished in stainless steel, this funky shop has an industrial rock feel. The barbershop plays rock music, and has Internet service and three big screen TVs for sports fans while they get a $24 buzz cut, or a layered cut starting at $32. Although Floyd’s doesn’t do advance bookings, you can see staff schedules online and call 30 minutes ahead to schedule an appointment. Starting at $55, color service is a specialty at Floyd’s. “We have a lot of radical colors to funk up your hairstyle,” says a barber. Go to Floyd’s if you want to be a rock star— or just look like one. Beauty Tip: Use dry shampoo to add volume to limp, thin hair.

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Seventy salons on Newbury makes for an insane competition, but James Joseph Studio sets itself apart with many attributes, resulting in several awards. Voted “Best Haircut Under $50” by Boston Magazine, haircuts start at $45, and for an advanced haircut $55. The studio has a more familiar, laidback set up as compared to the other highbrow, severe-looking salons lining Newbury. James Joseph is also a haven if you’re a black student in need of a haircut. Stylist Zenda is a specialist when it comes to African-American hair, her repertoire including, but not limited to, weaves, relaxing, and natural hair styles. She styles both males and females, and works on all hair textures. Beauty Tip: You can get away with using some drugstore products—but not shampoos. A stylist warns clients to avoid Pantene at all costs. Pantene counteracts salt-based ingredients, such as sodium chloride, by using a ton of wax in its shampoo. The stylist has a handful of clients who she can easily spot as Pantene-users, because of their dry hair and wax build-up.

Looks // 16 We’ve 5 Laugh. heard laughing

6 Often times, the

We’re in college.

Get

BETTER ABS

weekend entails the bar, a club, or a party. The best thing you can do for yourself is to make it a dance party. Just 30 minutes of moderate dancing can burn 150 calories. Just watch what you drink, alcoholic beverages could tack calories right back on.

better, for balance purposes. Vertical Leg Crunch 1. Lie face up on the floor and extend the legs straight up with knees crossed. 2. Contract the abs to lift the shoulder blades off the floor, as though reaching your chest towards your feet. 3. Keep the legs in a fixed position and imagine bringing your belly button towards your spine at the top of the movement. Repeat for 12-16 reps. Long Arm Crunch 1. Lie on a mat and extend your arms straight out behind the head with hands clasped, keeping the arms next to the ears. 2. Contract the abs and lift the shoulder blades off the floor. 3. Keep the arms straight and avoid straining the neck. If you feel neck pain, take one hand behind the head while keeping the other arm extended. 4. Lower and repeat for 12-16 reps.

For both men and women: Bicycle Excercises 1. Lie face up on the floor and lace your fingers behind your head. 2. Bring the knees in towards the chest and lift the shoulder blades off the ground without pulling on the neck. 3. Straighten the left leg out while simultaneously turning the upper body to the right, bringing the left elbow towards the right knee. Stretch! Always begin and end each workout 4. Switch sides, bringing the right elbow with at least 10 minutes of stretching. It is towards the left knee. also advisable to do a 15-20 minute session 5. Continue alternating sides in a ‘pedalof cardio prior to doing muscle-strengthening ing’ motion for 12-16 reps. exercises to get your body warmed up and Exercise ball Crunches moving. Doing crunches on an exercise ball are more effective than just doing them on the ground because they give you extension and flexion, giving you a more thor1.Squats Stand with your feet shoulderough workout. The smaller the ball the width apart, parallel, toes facing forward. Make sure your knees are facing forward as well. Squat down until your legs make a 90 degrees angle and then rise back up. Suck in and flex your abs while doing this for the most effective results. Start with 20 reps and work your way up. To increase the intensity, try also holding weights. 2. Lunges Lunges work both your legs and your butt at the same time. Just start out with your right leg, step about two feet in front of your left leg, and squat down so that your front leg is at a 90 degrees angle. Make sure that the only part of your foot touching the ground are your toes, and both your knees and your toes are facing forward. You can do side lunges to work your inner thighs in addition to your butt. Again, hold dumbells or weights for increased intenstiy. 3. Hip extensions In this exercise, get down on your hands and knees, bending both When June rolls around in just a few short months, no one wants to be cursing themarms and legs at 90 degress angles, and selves for eating one too many slices of NYP during those cold winter months. If you can while maintaining each leg at a 90 degrees dedicate at least 45 minutes of your day, three to four times a week to strengthen key angle, lift one leg at a time until you feel parts of your body, you’ll have that ripped and bangin’ figure you’ve wanted (or missed) the burn. for oh so long. Text // Natalie Gergely | Photos courtesy of the State Library of Queensland is the best medicine, and calorie wise, they weren’t lying. The international Journal of Obesity found that laughing for just 15 minutes can burn between 10 and 40 calories. Imagine going to a comedy club.

Get

Better BUTT

Beach ready By June first

Get

Better Arms

For Women 1. Bar Bell Bicep Curls Make sure your back is straight and your shoulders are back. Hold your arms out with your palms up and make a fist around the dumbells (weight of your choice). Then lift the dumbells up to about where your pectoral muscles are and back down. Lower your arms slowly so you really feel the stretch. 2. “Skull Crushers” Not as threatening as it sounds! Lie on a flat bench and use a light barbell. Lift the weight over your head with your palms facing the roof. Now

move the barbell backwards as if you are going to drop it behind your head-triceps pointing behind you instead of straight up. Lift the weight again until you have a straight arm and then lower it lowly back down. For men: 1. Close-Grip Chinup Grab a chinup bar with an underhand grip, your hands spaced about six inches apart. Hang with your arms straight. Keeping your face straight ahead and your elbows pointed down, pull yourself up until the bar is

SPRING 2010

directly under your chin. Then lower yourself to the starting position. 2. Dumbbell Biceps Curl Grab a dumbbell in each hand, using an underhand grip (palms facing forward). Let them hang at arm’s length next to your sides. Without moving your upper arms, curl the weights up toward your shoulders, then slowly lower them. If your elbows move forward, you’re cheating. Keep them pointing down.

17 \\ Looks Tanorama After paying $13 for a single session in the level 2 booth and ended up paler than I went in, after the booth dried up my skin and flaked off the tan I already had going.

Tan Works

Campus Tan Campus Tan is fairly inexpensive with a monthly-unlimited pass for just $19.99 after a startup fee. They have an array of beds and booths.

Darque Tan By far my best experience in Boston, Darque Tan was modern, shiny and bright. The staff was very helpful in spending my money (with the best bang for my buck). Each room also has its own radio station, volume control, and hand sanitizer.

If extra UV rays aren’t your thing, you still want a tan, and you aren’t afraid to get nakey in front of a stranger, visit Perfect Tan on Commonwealth Ave, the only place in Boston to give custom spray tans (not the spray booths that leave you streaky and orange).

The situation

with tanning

As MTV’s series The Jersey Shore came to a wrap, I found my feelings for characters such as The Situation and Snookie had changed from hate, to mild disgust, and eventually to love. Not to mention my fascination with Pauly D’s unmovable hair, Ronnie’s mixology skills [Ron Ron juice], and J-Wow’s clubbing shirts. But the two cast-characteristics that stood out the most were their mammoth-sized sense of self-worth, and their never fading tans; two characteristics that may go hand in hand. We’re all aware that studies have connected tanning to skin cancer, eye damage, and premature aging. Yet people still do it because it brings a sense of calm and

A pair of Tom Ford sunglasses run about $400, and a Marc Jacobs Rio Quilted tote costs a whopping $1,300. At these prices, few college students can cough up the cash, although most can afford a knock-off and achieve the same look. But most people take pride in their brand names, strutting down the street with confidence that the beige “LV’s” on their Louis Vuitton Tivoli are, in fact, the real deal. According to Bloomingdale's sales associate Yuliya Daranovskaya, “You can buy the knock-offs, but they’re just not the same quality. A pair of Tom Ford

Text // Michelle Gilbert | Photo // Molly Kaplan

confidence. Lauren Pessinis, employee of Tan Works in downtown Boston explains, “A lot of people come tanning, especially in the winter, to fight seasonal depression”. Also known as SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder is caused by an imbalance of melatonin and serotonin. Exposure to sunlight helps fight the imbalance. “Tanning is a good source of vitamin D and endorphins,” Pessinis says. Vitamin D helps ward off depression as well as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and osteoporosis. And we all know the joy of endorphins — that natural high. Perhaps this is why The Situation’s spirits could never be brought down.

sunglasses will last you a life time if you take care of them, and that’s worth the $500 dollar investment.” That’s one way to look at it, but after a few years, your Marc Jacobs tote will most likely be scratched up, ragged, and most importantly, out of style. Why invest so much in things that carry a fashionexpiration-date? Sarah Schiff, fashion enthusiast, explains, “they create things that I love, and I’m happy to spend money to make sure that they continue creating these things,” she says. But not everyone is so earnest in their beliefs about name brands. Jacquelin Voegtlin,

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class of '11 WLP major, believes, "What you wear is a status symbol. It's a symbol of wealth." Whether its your family's money or your own money, it's way of saying 'I have this, and you don't have this.'" Although there are many reasons why people gravitate toward name brands, this can mainly be attributed to the materialistic nature of our society.

Text // Natalie Gergely Photo courtesy of Verchiny via Flickr

While inside Tan Works is nice, the building it’s housed in looks as though it may be condemned in five years. The good thing about Tan Works is that you get a free tan if you buy a lotion. I recommend doing this and then finding somewhere cheaper.

Looks // 18

Market Fresh

Why spend your time (and money) at a grocery store when you can peruse one of Boston’s many outdoor markets? Between Haymarket, the Copley Square Farmer’s Market, and the SoWa Open Market in the South End, the possibilities of finding fresh fruit, produce, and more are endless.

Israeli Salad with Balsamic Chicken 2 large tomatoes, cubed 2 large cucumbers, cubed 1/2 red onion, chopped 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 3 tbsp olive oil Juice of half a lemon 3 tbsp chopped basil 1 tbsp chopped parsley Salt and pepper to taste

Text // Samantha Lawsky | Photos // Amanda Trock

ken

c Chic

Directions: 1. Whisk together lemon juice, oil, basil and parsley in a small bowl. 2. Toss together the tomato, cucumber, and onion. Pour lemon juice mixture on top and toss lightly to coat. Mix in feta and add salt and pepper to taste.

easts ken br ic h c s inles less, sk 4 bone thick each) tte inaigre 1" amic v (about ls a b s up 1 1/2 c nion, sliced o d e r 2 1/ aste t reasts, Salt to icken b um of h c e ombin or a minim f bowl, c ions: Direct edium-sized Let marinate . m n a io n n I e and o . 1 d mixtur ette, an inade r te the a u a vinaigr es. m eat, s rom f t h s u e m c in li iu ed ns 20 m ender. . ve onio killet. Over m til slightly t o m e e pan R n 2. e to th , or u t s large s t e e a t very r u ig in rning e place t 5 min sts and vina u t u , o s b e a t u ast ea for ken br out 15-20 min er of the bre onion t b he chic n t a t e r d o c o d n f e ( A 3. o th ken lear cut int runs c he chic kCook t until a small nd the juice d into a thic a , e n n r r e e t t so of ave tu e cen a whit t. e will h sraeli reveals he vinaigrett e at this poin e alongside I v c T u ser into pink!). amelized sa te and hicken c la p e r h a a t c o e t ened, e, slic icken sfer ch un alternativ y! f 4. Tran a njo Or, for into salad. E Salad. s s o and t cubes

Text // Samantha Lawsky

i Balsam

Sweet Corn Sa la

3-4 ears of fres h corn (equiv alent to one fr 3 scallions (g ozen bag) reen onions), chopped 2 cloves garlic , minced 1 cup romaine lettuce, chop ped 1 small white onion, finely chopped 1/4 cup crum bled feta chee se 3 tbsp butter 2 tbsp sugar 1 tbsp lemon pepper Salt to taste Directions: 1. Fill a mediu m pot with w ater and set to 2. Remove co boil on stove. rn husks and slice kernels cob. Place into off each corn boiling water and drain afte utes, or after r 10-15 minthe corn has turned bright 3. Melt butter yellow. in a large saut é pan over m Place lettuce edium heat. over melted bu tter and stir to sugar, stirring coat. Add until just com bined. 4. Once lettuc e has wilted do wn, add onio cooking until n and garlic, onion is slight ly translucen corn, and lem t. Add scallio on pepper, st ns, irring until co for 5 minutes mbined. Let si on a medium t -lo w flame. 5. Mix in feta right before se rving. Add sa lt to taste.

Just a Quickie

Great Taste Bakery & Restaurant Boston Common Coffee Co. big meal, 515 Washington Street small price 63 Beach Street Have a few Venture into Boston, MA 02111 minutes between Boston, MA 02111 this Chinatown bakery where most menu classes? Head over to Downtown Crossing for a items are $8 and under. Dishes range from pit stop at Boston Common Coffee Co., where steaming bowls of wonton soup to heaping you can snag tasty paninis and wraps. The “Big plates of steamed rice and golden noodles. We Tony” is a hit among customers—homemade recommend the pan fried noodles with beef meatballs, golden raisins, pine nuts, mozzarella for a meal that’s both delicious and filling. If and marinara sauce make for an outstanding price at $6.95. Plus, every sandwich comes with you have some spare cash (and room in your stomach), pick up some warm, steamed buns a small side salad. or a box of almond cookies on the way out. They’re perfect for an on-the-go dessert.

SPRING 2010

HEALTHY FOR YOU and YOUR WALLET

blu Restaurant & Cafe at the Sports Club/LA 4 Avery Street Boston, MA 02111

Though the restaurant itself is rather upscale and pricey, the lunch cafe at blu Restaurant is not only reasonable, but offers a healthy, lean menu for its clients. For around $10, you can try the protein, vegetable, or grain of the day; create your own salad; or, for a quick to-go option, try one of the quesadillas or wraps. Tired of Boloco smoothies? Try one at blu, where the freshest fruit is combined to make a refreshing and energizing drink.

designers go

luxe forless is cheap still chiC?

19 \\ Looks Most Emerson students are always looking for the next big trend, but living off their parents’ dollar puts a cap on their budget. Designers like Jimmy Choo, Rodarte, and Zac Posen have made it possible to purchase big names at low prices at stores such as H&M, Target, and Uniqlo. Unfortunately, instead of stores taking on the designs of fashion gods, it looks like the designers are creating pieces to fit in with the rest of the store. Designers have worked their way up the fashion ladder so they can sell their pieces for high prices. By designing for less expensive stores, it’s as if they’re moving back down in rank and taking everything they’ve ever created with them. If designers continue to design for the average budget, like many plan to do for their spring collections, will people continue buying their expensive designs? The joy of having a Burberry scarf isn’t the design itself, but who made it. If someone else could buy a Burberry scarf for $15 dollars at Target, then it would immediately lose its value. In my opinion, big name designers should stay in their circle of couture and leave the mass production up to casual-wear manufacturers. Jimmy Choo’s bizarre biker fringe looks for H&M were disappointing, and the fabrics used in Rodarte’s Target collection were less than satisfactory. Although this gives bargain-hunters a chance to own items with high-fashion names, chances

“

If designers continue to design for the average budget, will people continue buying their expensive designs?

”

are they won’t be delivered with highfashion quality. You will be much more likely to find better quality and trendier items from the designer’s actual collections. Others have followed the fad of crafting a less expensive line, but have launched it under their own stores and names. Alexander Wang has launched the “T” collection; Zac Posen, his “Z Spoke” collection; and Caroline Herrera, her “CH” collection. These collections bring in customers looking to purchase lowerend items while still promoting the store’s higher-end lines. They may be a better choice when it comes to quality. Better yet is searching for the higherend items at low prices, which can often be found at thrift shops. You still get the designer name, style, and quality of their higher-end lines without getting the same shoes as everyone else. This is an easy way to stay unique while still getting a style that fits in with the fashion world and not every other photocopy that comes out of H&M. Often, styles come back around again anyway. This makes the vintage handbag bought at Second Time Around even more chic than the items made to look like they are from back in the day. No matter what decade you’re dressing for, thrift shops are the way to go. One man’s trash is, after all, another man’s treasure. And this way, when you can actually afford a dress from Rodarte, you’ll have earned the right to truly feel like a million bucks. Text // Olivia Moravec Photos // Molly Adams Stylists // Justin Reis, Alex Oanono, Michaela McCrink, Talia Ralph Model // Emma Krause, Hair, Makeup // Alex Oanono Alexander McQueen for Target dress, Acne pumps courtesy of the Tannery

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Relationships // 20 Relationships // 20

The Question of Text // Libby Erlbaum-Rumelt | Photo // Danni Scully

When?

Patrick Dangle, a sophomore A wise R&B songstress once rejects her. the University of Richardson is not too far at said, “I wanna get down, but Boston, not the first night.” These days, off-base with her theory. “I’d Massachusetts however, seduction is sounding rather sleep with a girl who waited four months to lose more like “Sexy, can I?” and is good at flirting and makes their virginities to each whether it be the first night or me think about her when she other. “If you want to hookthe twenty-first, the response is leaves the room than a girl up, don’t deny yourself,” “Yes, you can.” When it comes who is throwing herself at me Danahy advises, “But for to having sex with a new person and won’t leave me alone,” me, I had to feel like I would for the first time, Emerson says Vinny Cueva, a Theatre be with that person forever College students believe there Education major, Class of 2010. to sleep with them. I’m just is no right answer, only a right For Cueva, sex is absolutely lucky I found him early on.” One bottom line can be about context. Though he does context. “I used to try and wait [to think about the variables that go agreed upon: no matter have sex] until I had a boyfriend into the decision to sleep with your decision, it’s being because I didn’t want to feel someone— how serious are the comfortable with it that rejected orused,” Megan feelings involved? is it purely counts. If it feels right, Richardson, a Film major, sexual? can I be patient and and you’re willing to risk Class of 2010, says. Richardson wait? — he also feels there are the emotional or physical distress, there’s experienced a turning point this year when she “I’d rather sleep with a girl who is good at nothing wrong sleeping allowed herself to sleep flirting and makes me think about her when she with with guys without the leaves the room than a girl who is throwing with someone on the first goal of a relationship herself at me and won’t leave me alone.” night. But if in mind. Though she originally doubted the outcome different standards for different you’d rather take things there’s nothing of her casual hook-ups, she was situations. “Seeing each other slow, pleasantly surprised. “What I for physical needs is fine, as wrong with that either. Just found was that as long as the long as you both know that’s remember that sex isn’t a guy likes you and you’re good all it is,” he says. “If one of the binding contract; there’s in bed, they keep coming back,” people involved starts looking no guarantee that sleeping she says. Richardson feels it’s for something more, you have to together will either prevent when a girl is sleeping with stop sleeping with each other.” or create a serious, long Cait Danahy, a Writing, lasting relationship. a guy for the sole purpose of Sara Kosmyna, a and Publishing getting a boyfriend that the guy Literature, major, Class Writing, Literature, and of 2013, brings Publishing major, Class a different of 2011, sums it up best: perspective to “Being in a relationship the debate; she isn’t a requirement for sex. the intimacy has been in a However, relationship for that comes from being in the past four a committed relationship years. “I might adds even more to the One-night feel differently experience. if I was still a stands might be fun and virgin, but I make you feel fearless, but strongly think they can also open you up people should the possibility that you can’t wait until they trust the person or their are in love to health history. If someone is have sex,” she willing to jump into bed with says. Danahy you right away, chances are says she and they’ve done it before. You her boyfriend, have to be careful.”

SPRING 2010

Q&A

Are men and women’s basic relationship needs all that different? Text // Courtney Preiss

Men and women have a list, subconscious or not, of the things that they look for in a significant other. When it comes to committed relationships, there are some qualities in a person that we just need them to have. But when it comes down to these essential needs, are the two sexes all that different, or are our necessities inherently the same? Here’s what some of your fellow Emersonians need in their own relationships: Chris Bocchiaro // Theatrical Design and Technology // Class of 2011 The Necessities: “Someone who is easy to communicate with, who shares my sense of humor, and who is as willing to forgive as I am.” What’s the first thing you notice? “Let’s go for the laugh.” Francis Yango // Writing, Literature, Publishing // Class of 2010 The Necessities: “I need to be with someone where we can enjoy each other’s company, and there’s a willingness to stay together. Showing that they care is more important than anything. They need to go out of their way to make sure you’re comfortable and happy.” What’s the first thing you notice? “Their face.” Twiggy Marie // Marketing Communication // Class of 2012 The Necessities: “Honesty and respect, and there has to be trust. Without trust there’s nothing there. You need someone who is willing to be there for you and willing to take care of you. You need someone who thinks you’re the bee’s knees.” What’s the first thing you notice? “Always the smile.” Addie Reise // Theatre Education // Class of 2013 The Necessities: “I typically crush on weirdos with big personalities and brown hair. Smart, goofy guys who love to laugh and will play around and be stupid with me.” What’s the first thing you notice: “Eyes. Hair. Jawline. Pants. In that order.”

21 \\ Relationships

The

Ins and Outsof Networking

The art of networking is not difficult to master. But for students, it can sometimes seem overwhelming. There is no need to look at making strong connections as a daunting task. Keep these simple tips in mind when you’re meeting people who could prove useful towards your career, and networking will quickly become second nature.

Be Prompt

Photo courtesy of Galleryquantum via Filickr

Suit Up

Small things you do physically have an invaluable impact on the way that you network. A few to remember are: Posture: Keep your shoulders back and your head up. Nothing says that you are capable quite like a confident stance. Handshake: A classic way to instantly judge somebody is by their handshake. Be firm. Nobody wants to do business with someone who has a weak, “dead fish” handshake. Don’t let your introduction show signs of a weak character. Eye contact: Always maintain eye contact when having a discussion. It may sound silly, but plenty of people get nervous and end up breaking eye contact, which comes off as rude.

Always respond to emails and phone calls in a timely fashion. Timeliness is a clear indication of the way that you function in a professional setting. Your ability to show up and respond to things quickly demonstrates good organization skills.

Be Genuine

Be genuine and honest with the people you come in contact with. The ones who network for quantity rather than quality and the ones who feign interest and passion will always lose to those who are truly passionate about their desired field of work. Like all relationships, these networking associations are based upon trust.

Be Inquisitive

When you meet someone who you would like to build a professional relationship with, ask them questions about what you are interested in. Asking questions signals to the person that you are an active listener and thinker, and it opens up a channel for deeper discussion.

Text // Courtney Preiss

Be Bill Clinton Our former president came up with Be Resourceful

Open your eyes to the resources around you. Do some research on your professor’s backgrounds—see what they have accomplished and what you could learn from them. Keep in touch with professors and advisors that you’ve had throughout the years. Take the extra time to introduce yourself to guest speakers who show up to classes or academic events. An introduction and exchange of contact information shows that you are willing to take initiative. Use your student status while you still have it.

an ingenious system to remember every person that he came in contact with. He created his own handwritten database that he would consistently update. When you meet somebody, record all of his or her information on a 3x5 index card. Include the date that you spoke to them, and what you spoke about. This way, when it comes time for you to contact them in the future, you can be specific in referencing bits of information that would help them remember who you are.

And don’t forget to suit up when you’re going somewhere that you have the opportunity to make new contacts. Your appearance is the first impression. Try and think in terms of marketing yourself, you want to be the most appealing candidate. Keep the lines of communication open between you and your peers. Don’t pit yourself against the other people your age that are working toward a common goal, but make connections and build relationships with them instead. When you strengthen your networking skills in the professional world, you make yourself a valuable resource to others. EM MAGAZINE

Relationships // 22

What’s Really The Problem? Text // Krista Mastorianni Photo // Amanda Trock

Staying Faithful: How to avoid temptations that seem unavoidable Text // Krista Mastroianni

Experts Pinpoint the Meaning Behind “Pointless” Fights

The fighting hasn’t stopped for a week. Every word spoken is forced, and your partner’s attitude sends fury through your veins. You say something nice to try and ease the tension, but it’s immediately taken as a sarcastic jab. The comment then results in another meaningless fight where nothing is solved. Many couples face those lingering rough patches, where they suddenly feel the person they once loved no longer understands them. No couple can expect smooth sailing through their entire relationship, and experts believe understanding the dynamics and underlying issues of a relationship can help determine if it’s worth working through or throwing away. Relationship counselor Randy Markey b e l i e v e s these problems spiral from a lack of communication and disconnection. He explains that, overall, women and men speak a different language. Just because you open your mouth and words come out doesn’t mean your partner understands them. When you’re upset by something your partner said, try to determine if you’ve made an assumption of what they really mean. For example, Markey explains that when a woman asks to spend more time together, a male may think his girlfriend is nagging or crowding him. Markey advises couples to step back and make sure they’re on the same page by checking in with each other and getting to the core of the issue. Miscommunication often leads to another problem: the inability to balance focus on oneself and ones partner. Rich Berofsky, from the Center for the Study of Relationships in Cambridge, found that women often put their partner first and their own needs are entirely unaccounted for. As women’ s roles change, they expect more, which forces couples to find balance in pleasing each other. Berofsky believes this includes being true to oneself and admitting there’s a problem.

“[Couples] don’t realize there needs to be maintenance. Without maintenance, the relationship deteriorates,” Berofsky says. Imbalance between you and your partner can result from having unrealistic expectations about a relationship or even about yourself. David La Pensee, a Boston-based therapist, finds that people stay together to fill a void or maintain a traditional role, which doesn’t fit today’s dynamics. Marriage is no longer a necessity for many women as they widen their presence in the workforce. This can create a struggle for women who no longer fit the mother/wife role. On the contrary, men often face the stress of being the provider and believe if they’re holding that end of the bargain, they can slack off when it comes to communicating with their partner. “Men and women are becoming equal in their accomplishments. People need to learn to focus on who they are. They think marriage defines them, but [it] doesn’t, and the expectations don’t hold up,” La Pensee says. Although it may seem superficial, sexual attraction and compatibility are important staples in any relationship. La Pensee notes that sexual incompatibility is the number one reason for divorce, and women are the ones more often initiating it. If you’re once bed-rocking sex life has dwindled to the once-in-a-while drunken quickie, it may be that your partner’s desires have changed. If both partners don’t work to keep things fresh, it leaves temptation for infidelity, which for men is often about self-fulfillment, whereas women seek a emotional connection. If two people are honest with themselves and believe the relationship is worth working toward, most rough patches can be solved. It’s important, however, to weigh the costs and benefits of staying committed and to address problems realistically when they arise.

SPRING 2010

On a Friday night, when your partner is home, and you’re out dancing with your friends, you’re either painfully avoiding or rapidly responding to your significant other’s text messages. Everyone knows cheating can lead to messy situations, yet sometimes the urge is too strong. It can seem nearly impossible to stay faithful, especially in college when temptations lurk around every corner. Here are some tips that may help when boredom hits and temptations run high. •

If feeling tempted, take a step back and see if there is an issue in your relationship or if the temptation is just situational. If you’re constantly having a hard time resisting temptation, it probably means you’re not in the right relationship.

•

The best way to stay faithful is to be aware of who tempts you and to keep a far distance. For a while you may feel you can keep it friendly, but a rough patch in your relationship could send you running into what could be a major regret. Avoid socializing with anyone who tempts you.

•

Plain and Simple: spend time with your partner. Ever heard the saying “Distance makes the heart grow fonder?” Well, in today’s world, it’s usually “Out of sight, out of mind.” Creating a strong bond in your relationship only holds true if you’re present in the relationship. For nights away from each other, work out a system where you both feel comfortable. Whether it be a text or a phone call at the end of the night is up to you, but checking in is important to maintain trust.

•

Understanding your weaknesses not only makes you a stronger person but a stronger partner as well. If you’re the type who dances on the bar and does body shots after one drink, it may not be in your best interest to hit the bars solo. If you get bored easily, and your partner is away, try to keep yourself busy by planning movie nights with friends or starting a long-term project.

•

If someone tempting approaches you, be upfront about your relationship to avoid giving the wrong idea. If you cannot fully see yourself committing to one person, however, let him or her know from the beginning so you can avoid a harsh breakup later on.

23 \\ Relationships

To mooch or not to mooch Text // Irina Grechko

Your ‘rents pay your rent, and a lot more. But how much is crossing the line and simply taking advantage? We arrive lugging an overflowing bag of dirty laundry and leave with a bag full of homemade food. Every once in a while, if we are lucky, we might even manage to leave with a new pair of shoes or that cute dress from J-Crew, courtesy of a credit card that is definitely not our own. Coming back home, no matter how long or short the break is, requires adjustments. Curfews and chores are reestablished, and we, yet again, lose our privacy. But if free swag is thrown in, maybe coming home is not such a bad deal. After months of living off peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, Ramen Noodles, and Easy Mac, it is expected that we might act off the impulses we had when we were ten and mooch of our parents a bit. Understatement? Fine, maybe we like to take advantage of our folks a tad more than we would like to admit. But after living the life of a poor college student, it is hard not to believe we need a night of fine dining, a new pair of jeans, or some cash to spend at the mall. “I try not to, but it just happens,” says Andrew Bear, a Performing Arts major, Class of 2011. “I borrow their cars, eat their leftovers, and bug them about shopping trips.” When we arrive home from college and the weekends of staying up until four in the morning partying with our friends, we believe that we are making sacrifices for our parents. After all the long, “Come home, I miss you,” phone calls with Mom and Dad, we think we are being humanitarians by

don’t like to ask my parents for money even when I need it. That being said, I rarely say no when they offer to buy things for me, especially things that are necessities.” While some parents can afford to help their loved ones with expenses, a lot of other parents are facing financial instability in their jobs. Under those circumstances, it is not very fair to demand cash and other luxuries from them. Something parents are more eager to do though is cook a nice meal for their children or take them out for a quality dinner. “My parents don’t seem to mind,” Bear says. “They are just happy to help out.” There is nothing criminal in going back home and expecting free meals, gifts, and maybe some cash. One thing that must be considered, however, are the consequences. Make sure your request will not affect your parents financially. If you think it might, really consider whether you need whatever it is you are asking for. If your parents are lucky, willing, and able to give you anything you demand, then more power to you, Photo courtesy of MattNJohnson via Flickr but always remember to has twenty bucks waiting on the counter thank them and show them how much you appreciate their help. for him everyday.” “My mom and I love our coffee and tea, While mooching seems harmless, we must always remain aware of our parents’ so I always let her buy, but sometimes I like to treat her,” Bardell says. “I think it’s a nice side of the story. Our parents are fully entitled to their little surprise for her to have the reverse.” At the end of the day, does mooching own money. After raising us for eighteen years, getting us into college, finding us make us weak and dependent, or just really, housing, and paying for our rent and really lucky? You are the only one who can other expenses, we should be respectful decide whether it is time to cut the parental purse strings or continue to revel in the and gracious toward them. “I try not to mooch off my parents,” says parental love. Just remember to take joy in Thalia Bardell, a Writing, Literature, and being with each other over the breaks and Publishing major, Class of 2011. “I like to appreciate the familial love and support you think of it as being independent, and I already have. satisfying their wishes to have us back under their roof. The curfew restrictions and various rules imposed on us do, however, come with some sort of price tag. Or so we think. “I don’t really mooch off my parents that much,” says Kelly McCarthy, Marketing Communication major, Class of 2011. “Having said that, if I don’t get to my laundry in time, my mother does it for me. So now I just kind of stopped trying to do it. My brother is the king though. He

EM MAGAZINE

Wrath

Relationships // 24

Deadly Sins of a First Date Text // Evan Sigel

When it’s time for that big first date, you have to make a meaningful and lasting first impression. With all the pressure, it’s easy to slip up or try too hard. If you avoid these Seven Deadly Sins, however, you’ll give yourself the best chance of a virtuous second date. (Just save the sins for the sheets.) Let the past go. There’s

no need to bring up your cheating ex or other prior experiences just yet. This night is about starting anew, so leave your junk in the trunk until things are a little more settled. Is he going to pay? Are you splitting the check? Dining and dashing? First dates should never break the bank. Save champagne at Top of the Hub for your anniversary and count on splitting the check. Do your homework and find a restaurant with entrées in the $12-18 range.

Greed

Envy

If your date runs into an attractive friend or has to take a quick phone call, play it cool. After all, you’re the one who scored the date. So relax because confidence is attractive and shows you can hold your own. It’s alright to spend an hour on your hair to make it look like you just rolled out of bed, but no one appreciates standing around for sixty minutes trying to figure out what to do. Take the time to prepare a plan of action, be specific with the time and place, and then follow through. If the spot was your choice, take it upon yourself to text your date the address.

Sloth

Embarassing First Date Stories

Gluttony

Being yourself is great and all, but if what you are is a messy eater who loves ordering ribs, tonight’s not the night. Sure, go for a burger, but keep your napkin in your lap and chew with your mouth closed. Go ahead and kiss on the first date, but if the first time you step up to the plate you swing for the fences, you may be asking for trouble. First impressions are important. If you’re looking for more than a booty call on speed dial, your first date has to reflect that.

Lust

You may be class president, a fencing prodigy, or a pop star in Japan, but this night isn’t about you – it’s about both of you. People have two ears and one mouth, so listen twice as much as you speak.

Pride

Text // Evan Sigel

fter breaking up with my boyfriend of two years, I was eager to start dating again. I hadn’t yet gone on a real date as a twenty-one-year-old college girl, so naturally I suggested to my date we go to a bar I liked. When I sat down across from him, I realized how nervous I was and promptly ordered my first drink. It worked like a charm, and I quickly loosened up. After several more rounds, we were both rather drunk but having a great time nonetheless. He was very sweet, and we danced until the bar closed. We headed back to his place and started making out until we passed out. When I woke up, I noticed an awful taste in my mouth and a similarly repulsive smell. To my complete horror, I had managed to vomit all over his bed. He was still asleep, so I grabbed my stuff and made a run for it, completely embarrassed. Later that day, I received a text message from him saying, “Hey, I’m so sorry for throwing up last night. I don’t even

remember. I’m really embarrassed. But I had a really good time, so let me know if you want to do it again.” I’ll never tell him it was me. ve never been a fan of playing the field, and the one time I did I got burnt -- bad. I was really excited for my first date with this super cool girl from work. She was the type of girl I could really see myself being with long-term, which usually isn’t my thing. We had dinner, and everything was going smoothly, until Kim walked in. I had hooked up with Kim on two separate and intoxicated occasions, both of which I was trying to forget. The most recent was two weeks ago, and probably a motivating factor in no longer wanting to play the field. I tried to avert my eyes, but she noticed me and made a B-line for my table. Before I could say a word, as if in slow motion, she retrieved a belt from her purse and said, “I’m so glad I bumped into you.” My date was none too impressed.

I’

I was really looking forward to this date with a guy I had met in class. We’d had a class together before, and the sexual tension was palpable. We opted to hit the club and ended up having a really good time. Pressing against him as we danced, I decided I’d invite him back to my place. After a few more drinks for some last minute courage, I got up the nerve to ask him. But then, he was nowhere to be found. I roamed the club until it closed and tried texting him to no avail. Depressed and drunk, I headed over to NYP, which is where I finally found him -- and another girl.

met a guy at a party on campus who turned out to be a friend of my roommate’s. After texting back and forth, we hit it off, and I agreed to go out with him the following weekend to the Science Museum. We met

SPRING 2010

outside the LB around five o’clock and jumped on the train. After a couple of stops, it was pretty clear that our textual connection did not translate into real life. The awkward silences were excruciating, so to relieve some of the tension, I faked an incoming phone call and excused myself to the other side of the car to “answer it.” I spent five more stops at the other end of the car on my faux call before I walked back over, knowing that any more time on my phone would have been plain rude. As I approached, he was shaking his head and glaring at me. We had been underground the whole time with no service. The next few stops were painful, to say the least.

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Envy

25 \\ Entertainment

“Imagine” by John Lennon (1971) “You may say I’m a dreamer / But I’m not the only one / I hope someday you’ll join us / And the world will live as one.” Simply one of the most pure and beautiful songs of all time. He is envious of a life that is so obviously impossible, especially during the early 1970s. His idea remains relevant as we believers in Lennon and in life continue to idolize him and his imagination, even though his dream never came true.

Slo

W ra t y n o t Glut

Pride

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Greed

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Entertainment // 26

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Emersonian and his band stay busy on the road to success Text // Chrisanne Grise Photo // Molly Adams

n a Sunday night this past February, Boston-based psychedelic rock band The Stereo Flys was on a roll. The night before, the three members had squished into a tiny house party in Allston to rock about 100 people. And rock they did—people crowdsurfed in the living room and trashed the house. Aside from the people who had to clean up afterward, it’s safe to say just about everyone had a fun time. So the guys of the Stereo Flys were all feeling great about their show the following night. That is, until only twenty people showed up. Unfortunately, the band hadn’t accounted for it being Super Bowl Sunday. The Patriots may not have been involved this year, but that didn’t seem to make much of a difference. “We thought there might be a lot of anti-football fans out wanting to have fun but uh…no,” says Jeff Beam, the guitarist and singer, with a laugh. “Plus, the Super Bowl was on in the other room so people kept drifting in and out.” The unpredictability of shows can certainly be frustrating, especially for a new band trying to build up a fanbase. But the guys are learning to work with it, and besides, they are so busy creating new music, spreading the word, and focusing on school that there is hardly time to dwell on one not-so-successful show. Beam is a

Political Communication major, Class of 2010, while bassist Sam Peisner is a Senior majoring in Communication and Sociology at Northeastern University and drummer Zander Kagle studies Performance and Audio Technology part-time at New England Conservatory. But school doesn’t slow this band down. They’re set to release a new album, a live DVD, and a music video, all within the next few months, on top of trying to play a show every weekend and planning an east coast summer tour that will take them as far as Athens, GA. Phew. The band hopes that all the new material will elevate them to new levels of success and gain them new fans while satisfying the old ones. At press time, the band had completed about half of their debut album. The tracks they have already released on the Internet are crowd-pleasers that will surely engage everyone from rock show regulars to more riled up coeds at Allston house parties. The Stereo Flys’s music is energetic and raw sounding, with a heavy influence from older artists in the 60s and 70s, like the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Cream. They are also inspired by more modern musicians, like Wilco, the late Elliott Smith, and the Flaming Lips. (Although on their Myspace, the band writes, “We are influenced

We are influenced by bands that suck. Their influence is for us to consciously try not to sound like them.

SPRING 2010

27 \\ Entertainment by bands that suck. Their influence is for us to consciously try not to sound like them”). The band consciously stays away from the metronome, so the songs speed up and then slow down to a snail's pace whenever the guys feel like it fits the energy of the song. When the album comes out sometime in the spring, it will be available in the usual modern formats and

also on vinyl. The guys don’t just appreciate the music of the 1960s and 70s; they’re also all big fans of the fashion from that era. They’ve worn everything from 3-piece suits to checkered pants to psychedelic ties. The Monday after the Super Bowl show, as they wandered around the Emerson campus, Kagle wore a paisley shirt while Beam had on a blue button-down shirt topped with a grey vest. However, both are adamant that the clothing they wear is not exaggerated to be part of the band’s image. “I think it’s important to stand out as a band in any way you can, but we don’t think of it

EMERSON BANDS THAT MADE IT BIG Jef

as another gimmick. If you feel like you look good, you’re going to look like you feel good,” Beam says. “I just can’t identify with modern style very much. I would have worn this to class today,” he says, gesturing to his outfit. “And I just like paisley,” Kagle adds with a sheepish grin. Since the guys got together and formed the band about a year ago, they have developed a niche for themselves in the Boston music scene, playing shows at venues all over the city, including T.T. the Bear's and PA's Lounge in Somerville. That being said, they still need to get their name out as much as possible. So the influx of upcoming material is their effort to hit all the markets. It is certainly a lot of work for a group of students in a young band, but they feel it will be worth it in the long run. “We don’t want to oversaturate the market, but we just want to always have all kinds of stuff that people can latch on to,” Beam says.

no f Be t sur oriet am yo e. r re of T ach he Pe ed S r som tere de haps nt o es o n the Mi eo ort Fly c of s Ch time hael f ou suc is fo r un . A ces llow k o Ang nge mos t l so fC Pa ha elako akos famo ver ing t ng wr s u the he p Ma rker w s eE alu rot ote yea ath P . r s e H m Cla co Cu rs. o an ong ni ou s s r d b s ren He f man an the of Va se rec s in r t d ea yo l h 2 y, P ord s like l a i 0 re t ass ed s Em , Pa s o 01. les, nd jus her E s e i C f Ju all on Tim Th rso sio Th ta las m o e P r s n few erso f a eo it is of ssic da the Mig “Jo do n P n 2 r a r t oc nm y is c 0 5, hit se so m r it, s I G ht hn 31 y, up 04; he usic oo tar i n y n n c e C 1 ck o t g y m ted ind , E bea oli mp Em ,” w Bo so V ou ians w a n v i s t e e o e n r s h erc t fo i L rso u s r s a g i r c o h e e o t t hc a o V c w l i d c e s n. a r y ho h k a kc ar, lap len s a ha ne s” B ba is, C ent ou Sin i r a t s r s c t n i o r m ave g nd ted re la u . les d g p. ine’s olo . a usi we wo ss of ly o him er-so at The rton p T D r h f cal ined o n n r s e s ay ee jec um ka-c is t a 2 200 Eme the . Hi ngw p p o t v h lea r b 5 o s ng r en i r e 0 er r s la esent n 20 Re high self-r iter E set 05 B ; And sonia on e ban saxo cor 0 e e t r e t p er ost y W ns: to oh 7w ds. st-ch lease ic H on d fro hon b o o e i h C e pe n M sb art d ist the m cam s gi en a nf ing alb utc Bill Cam for a e P rlfrie stuor usic y, Cla rlos hin CD um b n l b J i a o s t am Aw s o ssio d a Fo ard ridg tle b by “Sou so es f a nP t an n cha e is n an Bro rd a 200 glia it’s un ds Lik , Clas rts. bes d yo 4 n , w ; d C sig u t nb ha and las The kno ma ne e Thi s of 2 e s s d a s” r for E Bo wn y ha e h playe ric-jo of 19 e 002 ct ssto for ve on ache , is s is u d s 9 n h n t h e e o d ard iTu ho Task 7; nti s fo eir ne the talen w 1 m e o rm 9 r, s ely s' a t ed 97 h f calle lbu op te ted th de with afte it, dT a nc m a t “ h. t r B The he ch urt art harts even on Impr Mig s. on P e e Hu r gra hty s “One beautiful day this past summer I spent the entire day tch iTune ez Hi du sion lt ate Tha ins s inside with my shades shut watching True Blood, and I on in 2 on sa df rom t is n 007 id don't regret it. Also, I haven't seen any of the Academy ow , se nice sig tting thin Award-nominated films, and I am a film major.” ne d t the gs ab o W rec Jessica Schoen// Film Production// Class of o arn ord ut for er 2011 Bro s.

CONFESSION:

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Entertainment // 28

Boston Boroughs:

Tear o ut two-s this id ed guide to with bring you!

Roxbury Crossing Text // Megan Donovan

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oxbury is known by upper-middle class students as dirty and a bit too sketchy to leisurely wander around. It’s just a ten-minute Orange Line ride away, yet it seems so far detached from our reality. But what Roxbury is never recognized for are the many philanthropic organizations that have sprouted to improve the area through community activism, youth programs, gang re-

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sistance, and education. Members of the community are working to change the once tainted stigma of the neighborhood through the success of its businesses. Here is a list of some of the places working to better the neighborhood and provide some good sustenance, all accessible from the Roxbury Crossing stop on the Orange Line.

Butterfly Coffee

is located directly off the T at 1420 Tremont Street. It offers organic muffins and coffee (though no soy milk) in a typical coffee house atmosphere. The artwork and bold colors that adorn the walls, not to mention the accounting service attached to the building, characterize this place as anything but pretentious. Because of its location, customers of many different ethnicities can be found inside. Butterfly Coffee is simplistic, genuine, and offers an extremely convenient way to get caffeinated for a day of volunteering.

Yawkey Club of Roxbury is a division of the Boys & Girls Club located on 115 Warren Street. The

facility is relatively new. It was renovated in 2006 and has around 300 active members ages six to eighteen. Student volunteers can help as tutors in the homework room, as kitchen aides in the cafeteria, or one-on-one as mentors. There is also a music center, performing arts center, gym, and pool. Whether you’re interested in a one time or re-occurring volunteer opportunity, the Yawkey Club has a position that will suit your interests. To volunteer at the Yawkey Club, contact Liz Skinner at lskinner@bgcb.org.

Haley House Bakery Café is located at 12 Dade Street and provides the Dudley area

with a healthy and fairly-traded food option. The Café is part of a larger initiative that runs a soup kitchen and youth culinary classes, and also provides affordable housing to the elderly and free housing to people who do various tasks for the organization. The Café, which highlights work from local artists on their wall, is non-profit and offers a range of simple breakfast and lunch options including coffees, teas, baked goods, and homemade soups and sandwiches. Try the jerk chicken sandwich for a nice Caribbean treat.

Diablo Glass School

is for those who are interested in more specialized art classes that Emerson cannot offer. It’s located at 123 Terrace Street and features glassblowing, flameworking, casting, and stained glass making classes. Prices for classes range from $75 to $200 dollars, depending on how many hours they run (usually two to six hours) and how much material is needed. The school has partnerships with the Museum of Fine Arts and Boston University and runs youth classes in preparation for art school.

is located at 1625 Tremont Street and serves up fancy alcoholic beverages and signature tapas in a chic restaurant that borders the neighborhood of Mission Hill. The menu may be a little pricey (dinner and a drink could run you close to $30), but if you have a sense of humor or thirst for liquor, trying a couple drinks like “Frenching an Asian” or “ The Mad Hatter” are sure to put you in mood to forget the price. They also offer lunch items ($8-11) and morning-after drinks ($3-9) that take a lighter hit on the pocket if you need a break from volunteering with all those children.

The Savant Project

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SINister Characters Entertainment // 30

Throughout literature, there have been some truly awful characters (and I don’t mean Twilight awful). Characters kill, torture, and destroy one another, and they have made a lasting impact in the literary world. By looking at just a few of the horrible things these characters do, it’s no wonder that they leave a legacy of sin in literature. Here’s a look at my vote for some truly sinister characters.

Text // Maria Montemayor

Greed

Goneril and Regan. Okay, here you get a twofer. The king's two eldest daughters in Shakespeare's King Lear make Scrooge look like Father Christmas. Both feign love for their father to get their inheritance. Regan, perhaps the more disgusting of the two, actually cheers at the blinding of the Earl of Gloucester. Yeah, these girls are a little screwed up. Catherine Earnshaw. Totally lusting after her adopted brother Heathcliff, Catherine pretty much defines this sin as the tragic heroine of Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights. Catherine and Heathcliff's is a love that can never be, and thus her lusting leads them both to a life of tragedy. Ignatius J. Reilly. As the protagonist of John Kennedy Toole's book, A Confederacy of Dunces, Ignatius embodies sloth. He never really does anything and yet is still a snob. He hates everything about modern culture, but he sits and basks in modern comforts. Ubu Roi. Seen as a satire of Macbeth, Alfred Jarry's title character is about as gluttonous as one can be. He doesn't just over-eat - Ubu Roi is also hungry for power. Much like Macbeth, he kills innocents who he sees as threats. He is a great embodiment of not only gluttony, but the hostility and corruption an all-powerful government can create. Abigail Williams. Few characters are as hateful as Abigail Williams in Arthur Miller's The Crucible. The play takes place during the Salem Witch Trials, and Abigail, one of the accusers, destroys anyone who dares to Cougar Town “I'm embarrassed to admit it, but my guilty pleasure televistand in her way. She has no sense of right and wrong. Persion show would probably be Cougar Town. It's not good television, but it's haps one of the most wrathful events occurs when Mary stupidly funny, and it makes me laugh. So really, what else is there?” – Miriam Warren, a friend of Abigail's, decides to turn her in. Horrors Ryden // Marketing Communication // Class of 2011 ensue. Ugly Betty “It’s just a terrible show, but I watch it. And of course it’s being cancelled.” – Alex Judelsohn // Visual and Media Arts // Class of 2011 Uriah Heep. A villian in David Copperfield, by Charles Dickens, Uriah represents many of these sins. Glee “I would have to say my guilty pleasure show is Glee. It's ridiculous, but However, it is envy that really makes him as evil and twistit's entertaining. It's like Emerson kids and crazy.” – Hannah Cotier // Marketing ed as he is. Born into a life of poverty, Uriah hates to see Communication // Class of 2011 others promoted or offered more. It is his envy of not only True Blood “True Blood probably doesn’t need an explanation. I used to David, but of several other characters within the work that have to defend my Buffy phase, but the whole world seems to suddenly agree makes Uriah do some truly horribly sinful things. now! Vampires are sexy! So suck on that!” - Yurie Collins // Performing Arts // Class of 2012 Achilles. Once again, The Iliad's Achilles has many of the traits on this list, but his pride is what really The Glenn Beck Program “The guy’s crazy, so Republican and entertainleads to his downfall. Had Agamemnon not hurt Achille's ing. I don’t watch it religiously, but if it’s on I definitely won’t change the chanpride, much of the action of the story would not take place. nel.” - Mitchell Broesder // Writing, Literature, and Publishing // Class of 2012 Achille's pride, along with his fury, creates the epic conflict in the classic poem.

Lust

Sloth

Gluttony Wrath

em poll: guilty pleasure tv shows

Envy

Pride

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How Not to Over-Indulge in the DH Text // Megan Donovan Photo // Molly Kaplan

Did You Know?

Unless it says “100% Whole Wheat,” the bread you are consuming may be partially processed or contain “enriched flour.” This means that it has been stripped of its natural nutrients. Be sure to check the ingredients and look for 100% whole wheat or whole grain products.

Just about everyone knows that peanut butter frozen yogurt, crumb cake, and Cocoa Puffs are not healthy. But when the dining hall has nothing to offer but overcooked pasta at the Home Cooking section, these treats are a sure thing. For one reason or another, we resort to foods that rarely vary and are hard to mess up. The problem is, these foods are almost always high in saturated fat or sugar. But because most of us can’t afford to go out to Whole Foods every week for groceries, Emerson’s dining facilities are our only option. So how does one approach the DH and its many selections without over indulging or triggering a heart attack? Constructing the perfect DH meal is an art. Making sure all food groups are accounted for is essential in beating hunger and staying healthy. If you think about some of the elements each section offers, you can plan a plate that is delicious, filling, and leaves you feeling satisfied.

Legrain & Legume

The Grill

Sandwich Station

Salad & Soup Bar

Bread & Cereal

Home Cooking

Just because it’s dubbed ‘vegan’ doesn’t mean a meat eater can’t enjoy this section. The mushroom risotto is a favorite, along with sage pasta. Add chicken or beef from Home Cooking or the Sandwich Station for protein. Spices and herbs are taken into consideration here, so if you like fresh parsley and cilantro, it’s a winner.

Skip the french fries and red meat,and try a veggie burger to mix it up. Eat burgers without the bun; the white bread is just filler with no real nutrients anyway. If you insist on having a grilled cheese, at least get it on whole wheat bread rather than white bread. It will keep you fuller for longer while eating less. For breakfast, try an egg white omelet with spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, and cheese, so you get some servings of vegetables.

If you mess this one up, it’s on you. Wraps, hoagies, bulkie rolls, rye, wheat, and white breads are all available to be topped with a variety of sliced meats and cheeses. The white bread and rolls have few nutrients though, so choose whole grain breads whenever possible. The sandwich station also has avocado, which contains healthy fats. Try a roast beef and Muenster cheese sandwich with spicy brown mustard on rye on the panini grill.

The mounds of lettuce and spinach are constants and about as healthy as you can get. Soups change frequently and are typically good. The oil and vinegar in the metal baskets are a great resource for salad topping or bread dipping, and are better for you than globs of salad dressing. Hot sauce is also in there to top eggs or anything else lacking flavor. Round out your salad with chicken from the Sandwich station.

There is a pretty good balance between healthy cereals, like Cracklin’ Oat Bran and granola, and more sugary ones like Cap’n Crunch and Cocoa Puffs. Limit yourself by passing up the sugary ones at breakfast and save for dessert. Layer fro-yo and your favorite cereal like a parfait and top with walnuts and sprinkles. If all you need is a snack, try toasted whole wheat bread topped with peanut butter, banana and honey.

Yes, the mac & cheese is yummy, but unfortunately contains few nutrients. The rotisserie style chicken is a good source of protein and much healthier. The roasted vegetables are typically right on but under seasoned, so add extra flavor with the chili flake and oregano shakers next to the pizza.

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arty-size bags of Tootsie Rolls and Twizzlers were passed around the dimly-lit auditorium-style classroom where Mac-toting hipsters shouted ideas mixed in with jokes at each other. Several students who wandered in late to the meeting were booed to their seats with extraloud remarks from the two leaders at the front of the room. Nope, it’s not Emerson’s version of Lord of the Flies; it was the first meeting of the Artist Advocacy Network. Shaun Oppedisano, a class of 2012 marketing major, started with a small idea for a way to get student art shown around Emerson’s campus. Now, the idea has turned into an international project, with members and chapters setting up all over the United States and even a few other countries. Founded in Fall 2009, the Artist Advocacy Network (AAN) has even received attention from professional musicians, artists, and filmmakers eager to get involved, including some Emerson favorites: the bands Animal Collective, Beach House, and the Vivian Girls. Oppedisano’s orginal idea was to create a magazine to exhibit student work. Oppedisano and friend Dillon Buss, a film major and member of the class of 2012 at MassArt, “quickly joined forces and just brainstormed night and day for … two weeks straight about all the possibilities we could make happen with a website,” Buss said. With the help of the Facebook group, there was enough student interest to have a fullyinvolved staff. They decided to put out an online magazine that would push student artwork out into the infinite world of the Internet and also in front of the eyes of many highly respected professional artists. Their main goal: to connect student artists to the professional world and to create awareness about outstanding student work. The AAN's webpage, which functions as an online magazine, has a core staff of 12 in Boston. It is updated with new articles on student and professional artists' work, as well as interviews with up-and-coming bands and established musi-

Text // Catie Colliton Photos courtesy of Artist Advocacy Network

Finding the motivation to put together cians. The group's Facebook fan page boasts almost 6,000 readers, and there are represen- such a large-scale organization amidst tatives covering the art scenes in New York classes, part-time jobs, and internships City, Los Angeles, Sydney, Austin, Montreal, can’t be easy considering that most of the Baltimore, Miami, and Portland. The AAN members also write for the website in adis making a lot of dreams come true for the dition to promoting the AAN, organizing staff members who get to interview some of interviews, and planning future events. their favorite musicians without a coveted However, the members are driven by alRolling Stone press pass. Oppedisano and the most sinful motives: “The project was rest of the AAN members are in the process always fueled by my secret desire to be of planning big projects for this summer in- friends with every amazing artist on the cluding publishing a book that exhibits all of planet. I feel like if you don't have anyone the work that is profiled on the website and to envy then you're bound to either live too hosting a one-day event of music and visual safe of a lifestyle or become excessively arts to unite many of the local artists in the proud,” Oppedisano says. Cassie Coutard, the AAN’s Creative DiBoston area. Ted Rogers, a Film and Video Correspon- rector and a MassArt Animation Major, dent for the AAN and a Emerson cinematog- Class of 2011, says the group's lofty ambiraphy major, class of 2011, was approached by tions can be overwhelming at times. “It's Oppedisano to help exhibit student work and tough having dreams so big but starting out was hooked almost immediately. “[We] just so small and realizing that you have such a wanted to do something, and it wasn't until long way to go,” Coutard says. The AAN is a young organization, but we had a concrete mission statement that we really knew what we were getting ourselves it has a lot of potential thanks for the eninto. In general we wanted to level the play- thusiasm of its members. They are taking everything one day at a ing field—known time, and they aren’t kidding and unknown,” RogIf you’re interested in working themselves on what needs ers says. “We wanted with the Artist Advocacy network. Like every group, they to bring together talwork, join the Facebook fan need organization, especially ented people of all page for meeting announcein the form of more content standings with the ments or submit art and conand also in creating opportupeople and ideas tribute at ArtistAdvocacy.com. nities for more voices to be that inspire them.” heard, according to Rogers. “Once we get stronger as a group, there will be less talking and more doing. And that's our job- to make it happen,” Coutard says. Oppedisano loves that the AAN is a constantly evolving project but “because everything is so new, it's hard for us to have a lot of specific plans.” However, the AAN has high hopes for the future - ideally to have enough money to finance many other projects, including records, films, and their own gallery space. Buss wants to aim even higher: “We want to go worldwide! In every way. Connecting all artists everywhere.”

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hot-shot alumni

Katie Ward class of 2007 // Political Communication Wearing a long, knotted strand of pearls and simple suit set, Emerson Political Communication graduate Katie Ward was the epitome of modern professionalism. Choosing her words both carefully and eloquently, she answered each question with thought and grace—evidence of her mastery of media communications. Ward, currently serving as assistant press secretary to Mayor Menino, stressed the importance of internships in landing the dream job and achieving career goals. Remembering her senior year internship with public relations firm O’Neil and Associates as one of her best experiences at Emerson, she advised all students take advantage of as many opportunities as possible. “It is important to get involved and stay involved because you never know who you might meet or what other doors will open for you,” she said. Emerson’s reputation and alumni network are opening those windows of opportunity are and both are helpful in making the connections necessary to gain experience and achieve greater career options. “When you say you went to Emerson, people recognize that and know you have had a great education,” she said, adding that her

supervisor, Press Secretary to Boston Mayor Menino, Dot Joyce, is a Class of 1999 Emerson alumnus. Before being promoted to her position at city hall, Ward worked in the Public Relation Affairs office at O’Neil and Associates, an internship she earned through one of the college’s internship fairs and stayed with for a little more than two and a half years. “That was my first job after graduation, and it was a great starting off point because it really prepared me for things I am dealing with now,” she said. Working with journalists, Ward issued press releases and controlled the media's knowledge of the small firm during her time at O'Neil and Associates. Making the transition from the press office of a fairly small business to the media hub at the complex institution that is city hall hasn’t fazed Ward, who said she is excited to see what she is capable of. “It is a very fast-paced industry, and I have a lot to learn, but that is what makes it exciting,” she said. Now working for the mayor of a large city, Ward must keep up with the hustle and bustle of Boston politics and issues. Writing press releases, planning when the public will hear of governmental issues,

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and even consulting with Menino himself concerning media information are all in a day's work for Ward. Ward said it was her internship that reaffirmed her choice to pursue political communications instead of journalism, which was her declared major freshman year. “While I was working at my internship, I knew for certain that this was what I really wanted to do for the rest of my life,” she said. “That’s why it is important to get as much experience as possible, so that you will get a better idea of what you want to do and whether or not the field suits you.” Reflecting on her time at Emerson, Ward said she wouldn’t change anything. “The professors are great and the students are so passionate, and as a result Emerson has a great reputation...I loved every minute of it.” Text // Rheanna Bellomo Photo courtesy of Katie Ward

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hot-shot alumni

Brendan McCarthy

class of 2004 · Print & Multimedia Journalism Four months, twelve notebooks, two detectives, one homicide, and a spot in the 2009 Pulitzer Prize finals. With his work, “Homicide 37,” it is obvious that Emerson alumnus, Brendan McCarthy, is no stranger to success in Journalism. Graduating from the "campus on the Common’ in 2004, McCarthy went on to write for the Chicago Tribune for two years before moving to New Orleans, where his eight-part series, "Homicide 37," was nominated at the Times Picayune for Journalism's highest award. "I was wholly consumed with telling the best possible story I could," explained McCarthy, who said the possibility of a Pulitzer Prize never crossed his mind. "The honor came much later," he said. The Times Picayune series, which ran with the subhead “Finding Justice for Lance,” followed two detectives in search of a 15-year-old murder suspect who lived between broken homes and juvenile jail. The series was written in present tense, a risk McCarthy decided to take in order to strengthen the reader’s connection to the story. The series has been compared to a mystery/crime novel with its suspenseful endings and slow unveiling of events.

Pulitzer Prize judges said in their evaluation that the series included a “strong use of theme and development of characters... deeply affecting the family, investigating officers, and the city of New Orleans.” McCarthy said the most important part of writing the series was to “take people behind the curtain and show them how impactful this one shooting, this one night in a neighborhood, can affect so many people throughout the city. That one murder changed so many people’s lives, including my own.” While at Emerson, McCarthy was recognized by the Society of Professional Journalists for his work in spot news reporting, or immediate short reporting of unexpected news, at the Berkeley Beacon and earned a position in the Boston Globe summer co-op program as an editorial assistant. “I worked full time at the Globe at night and went to class during the day,” he said, explaining how his time at Emerson helped him build up experiences to apply in class and on the job. “My professors were working with me, and I carried things I learned in the classroom into work and vice versa. Things kind of snowballed from there." Part of this snowball effect came from

SPRING 2010

talking with professors outside of class and taking advantage of freelance opportunities. “Every brief I’ve written and rewritten and every edit from a professor has helped me. It is the repetition of writing and editing and reporting that makes you the reporter that you are. Of course, I’m still learning,” he said, stressing the importance of motivation and practice. “The best thing is to take it all in and keep trying...and to do everything with passion and a smile.” According to McCarthy, motivation and drive are key. After receiving the Berger Award by the Columbia School of Journalism for in-depth local and human interest reporting, he emphasized the need for journalists to break their stories down to a human element so that people will not only be informed, but also provoked. He associated this kind of drive and enthusiasm with Emerson. "I thought it was a really fun, hands-on, and fast-paced environment where nearly everyone was incredibly passionate about their work,” he said. “That passion carries over to your work as well. It’s infectious.” Text // Rheanna Bellomo Photo courtesy of the Times Picayune

35 \\ Features

Over the Limit an Emersonian confesses her addiction to fashion

Lisa Bonofiglio, a Writing, Literature, and Publishing major, Class of 2011, sits down to talk to em magazine about what she has acknowledged as a “shopping problem.” “Look what Boston does to my stuff!” she says as she points down to her brown kneehigh boots, insisting that she needs to shop for new clothes due to the weather. In the following interview, Bonofiglio talks about her shopping addiction and the voice in her head that keeps telling her “no.” Whether she shops to relieve stress, to relax after a bad day, or to simply get something new for the wardrobe, Bonofiglio innocently admits to having her mom bail her out on occasion after going over her credit card limit or overdrawing the debit card. em magazine: Why do you enjoy shopping? Lisa Bonofiglio: I like having new things. Clothes…I like clothes. I don’t know…I get bored sometimes. I really like to organize things so I’ve been buying things to organize them in—like my new bookshelf. I need stuff to put my stuff in. It’s a neverending process. em: Do you feel that shopping relieves stress? LB: Well, it’s something nice to do. Sometimes I go shopping with an item in mind and sometimes I just need something to…I don’t know…spiff up the wardrobe? Living in Boston is a bigger deal than living at home in terms of the wardrobe. em: Do you ever walk out of the store thinking, “Shoot, I spent a lot of money.” LB: The whole time actually (laughs) I’m thinking, “Shoot, I’m spending a lot of money. Shoot, this is my mom’s money, it isn’t mine. Shoot, I shouldn’t…but I don’t know…I need this…and she would like it!” Sometimes I rationalize why I need it. I’ll say, “I have brown shoes but these are light brown and the ones I have are dark brown.” em: Would you say you are addicted to shopping? LB: I get a thrill from it. I guess I get a shopping high. It’s funny to think in terms of a

drug. I spend money, which I shouldn’t be spending on it, which is a typical addiction thing. It’s not my money. It’s my mom’s money. I could never be like, “Oh mom I really needed that ounce of…whatever…” I would never say that to my mother. It certainly sounds like I’m addicted as if it were a drug.

Text // Michelle Golden Photo // Hope Kauffman Model // Faith Howes Stylist // Justin Reis Hair, Make Up // Alex Oanono

em: Explain your credit card situation. What is your limit and if you go above, how do your parents react? LB: Well- my limit is $1,000. And I barely ever go over, but sometimes I do have to make payments before the month is over to avoid that fee. Credit cards are dangerous because you don’t actually know how em: If this is your mom’s money, is this much you are spending. It’s not like money in your wallet. If you have a twenty-dollar money supposed to be saved for food? LB: This money is money that I’m not sup- bill, you just can’t buy anything over $20. posed to be spending at all. I’m allowed But with a credit card, you have to actively money for food, and I’m allowed money keep track of your spending, and even then, for activities once in a while just because it’s like invisible money. There really is no my parents didn’t want me to have a job limit because credit is such an abstract idea while I was at school. They did say we are compared to cash. paying so much a year for you to go here, and they don’t want me to waste it. So they em: How old were you when you first got said, “Get your GPA, do whatever you got to your credit card? Why did your parents do, spend your extra time doing whatever.” give you one? They didn’t want a job getting in the way. LB: I got my first credit card after I turned It really is my mom’s money because I can 18 and was legally allowed to have one. And to be honest- I didn’t want one. I hated tell her, but I will not tell my dad. the idea. I suppose I knew that I wouldn’t be able to control myself. My dad said that em: Your mom doesn’t care? LB: My mom cares, but she never makes it I needed to start building credit since I was my responsibility, which I think sometimes going to college and going to have to apply I’m kind of mad about because I’m getting for loans. On a side-note, it is really nice to away with it obviously. It’s not something I have one in Boston. With the risk of getting feel good about necessarily because I know mugged, I would rather have someone steal I shouldn’t take advantage, but at the same my credit card because I can always cancel time, if we go out shopping, she’ll buy me it. But cash- that shit is never coming back things. It’s kind of something I’ve always been used to, and it’s always been her mon- em: Our readers want to know, besides ey. I think that’s why I’m not as sensitive what you’ve told us so far, what are your other shopaholic confessions? to it. LB: Well, I suppose I would have to conem: What do you think your dad would do fess that I have taken advantage of Goodwill in the past. When I am feeling guilty or say if he had to find out? LB: He has found out. He doesn’t some- about shopping but still want to go, I go times know the extent that I’m spending. second hand. One time I went to Goodwill He might say, “Why is she going shopping? when they were having a sale on yellow Why are you giving her money for that?” tags. While I was in the dressing room, I “Well, Bob, she needed new shoes.” That’s switched a few tags around so that I could what happened in the beginning when I get a better discount—off the normal $5.00 just got to Boston, and I didn’t have winter per shirt. It’s pathetic, but it made me feel boots and I was freezing my toes off. I didn’t better for some reason. have a winter coat, so I was not prepared. I had to buy a whole new winter everything.

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Features // 36

Slate Dress ($415) courtesy of Holiday, Cynthia Vincent wedge sandals courtesy of The Tannery

dorm hoarders Opening the door to my dorm room takes an unusual amount of effort. This is because the back of my door has a rack holding approximately fifteen coats. When looking to the right, you’ll see my desk, but not the window. I have books piled high on the ledge, and in front of it, the various knicknacks I brought to Boston to make my room feel like home. My desk has never been used for actual work. The next thing you see is my bed, if you choose to take a closer look, you will see five bins packed with clothing underneath it. One would question why I would need bins when the school supplies you with a dresser. However, my dresser is stuffed to maximum capacity, with some drawers unable to close due to the sheer amount of stuff. On top of the dresser there are perfumes, makeup, and jewelry. The door to my armoir doesn’t close because of the multitude of clothing. Beneath that is my boot collection—of which I have at least twenty pairs. I suppose it’s time to come clean. My name is Alexandra, and I am a dorm hoarder. Before you say your “Hellos” to welcome me to group therapy, let me just tell you a bit about my issues and concerns. Fashion is an on-going cycle. Certain items are in and out of fashion all the time. This is demonstrated when you’re browsing a fashion magazine, and over your shoulder your mom says, “Oh I had something like that years ago, but I got rid of it.” When I hear the part when my mother says, “but I got rid of it,” it frustrates me to no end. I could have had something that was an original or “vintage,” and not have to

spend my own money on an updated version that isn’t half as good. After personally experiencing this situation various times, I made a serious vow to myself to save all the clothing that I don’t grow out of, so one day I could pass it on or wear it again. Some may find it absurd, but from my own experiences in dressing, I have learned that I can wear things from years ago and still receive compliments on them. Being the owner of such a large amount of stuff poses a problem when going away to college. How do you know what to bring when you know you will be away for a year? This conundrum was what was in my head while I was packing for school this summer. I also had to consider the fact that I have sisters that would ransack my things when I left. In response to this problem, I took everything I could ever dream of wanting from my drawers at home. On move-in day, when I walked into my room surrounded by carts and boxes, I realized I was seriously mistaken about college life. I would have to fit seven years of collected clothing into a shoebox of a room. After my mother and I saw how small my room was, we decided we needed to go on a mission to Target and Bed Bath & Beyond. In the end, we bought things to organize my “stuff.” Even though organizational units exist to help, in my case, they do add to the clutter. I can’t use my desk for work because of my stuff, and I have a nomadic drawer that travels my room because there is no room for it to remain stationary.

Text // Alexandra Gurvitch Photo // William Tyner Model // Molly Wolfberg Styling, Hair, Make Up // Alex Oanono

Tips for Dorm Hoarders If you’ve read this article and come to the conclusion that you, too, are in dire need of help, I’ve concocted a list of tips for all of the helpless addicts of stuff. 1. Buy storage bins for under your bed. No one will see all that extra clothing you're hiding unless you lift your sheets. 2. Buy sticky hooks for your towels or coats so you have room in the closet to hang more things. 3. Get a shoe bucket for under your bed, because your boot collection will probably take up the bottom of the closet. 4. Rolling drawers are a good extra set of containers to put things away. 5. Remember that when you go home for break, you can reload on clothes. Don't bring everything at once. Instead, use it in cycles. That way, your wardrobe will seem diverse and you won't be drowning in mounds of clothing. 6. You do not need six pairs of running shoes and nine pairs of rainboots. Decide upon some staples and don't bring multiples. 7. Make sure you maintain a list of what you do have. Part of being a hoarder means there are a lot of people who want to borrow your stuff. Don't lose it all by giving it out!

ollege is often referred to as “the best four years of your life.” Parents, faculty, and neighbors idealize the college experience as a carefree time of few responsibilities and concerns. In reality, however, the college years are often filled with stressful days and sleepless nights. The competition in class and in extracurriculars, the pressures of relationships, deciding what career is right for you, and numerous other aspects of the college experience create stress for students. Stress can, at times, be a positive thing - that extra kick of adrenaline to enhance both physical and mental functioning. However, an overexposure to stress can lead to both physical and mental health problems in college students. According to Emerson College’s Counseling Center, stress is the body’s physical, emotional, and mental response to change. The human body reacts to stress by releasing an assortment of hormones. One hormone in particular, Neuropeptide-Y, is released into the body during any stressful situation. Studies on Neuropeptide-Y have shown that this hormone has a direct effect on the immune system, specifically regarding the body’s vulnerability to illness. Excessive stress is a key element in nearly half of illnesses, ranging from the common cold to heart disease and even psychological disorders, such as depression. Stress also affects the body’s ability to recover from these illnesses. Because Emerson focuses on preparing students for extremely specialized careers, many students feel a strong sense of pressure and competition. Carly Barnette, Class of 2013, is a part of the small Bachelor of Fine Arts Musical Theatre Department at Emerson. The BFA Musical Theatre Department starts out with twenty-four students who, unlike most students at Emerson, had to audition for their major. By junior year, the program is cut down to sixteen people. The cut system is designed to ensure that the students in the program are dedicated to their craft and are growing as artists. Those who have shown little dedication or growth

are cut. “Secretly everyone is stressed about the cut system,” Barnette said. “I think it’s an unnecessary stress. Yeah, the cut makes you question if you really want to do this, but you can make that decision on your own.” The cut isn’t the only thing that Barnette has to stress out about. Students in BFA Musical Theatre have more classes than the average Emerson student, taking six classes rather than four. “My schedule will never be such that I can wake up at noon,” Barnette said. “I actually took last semester off from student productions because I was already so stressed.” This semester she is a Yellow Brick Road Dancer in Emerson’s production of The Wiz. “When I found out, I was just thankful I was in something. I knew there were people who weren’t in anything and that would be the topic of the week.” Because of her intense schedule, Barnette is often sick from a lack of sleep. She has a nearly consistent sore throat, which hinders her singing. “I can’t do all the work I need to do because I’m sick, and I’m sick because of all the work,” Barnette said. Barnette is extremely social and finds it hard to have to sacrifice her social life for her career. “I’m still able to go out and have fun. I just know I can’t get too out of control because I have rehearsal the next morning,” Barnette said. “I’m not able to socialize as much during the week, which is hard, but knowing I can go out on weekends helps to keep me sane. Being with my friends is what makes me realize all this stress will pass.” Although Barnette is stressed and tired, she has never doubted her commitment to the Musical Theatre Department or her ultimate goal of being on Broadway. Other students, however, already doubt their future. Bill Solecki, a film student in the Visual Media Arts department,Class of 2013, no longer wants to pursue film. Because Emerson majors are so specific, he has to transfer colleges to find a new major. “Film isn’t for me,” Solecki said. “It was a hob-

by. I don’t have the creative mind to make films. It sounds bad, but... I should have been realistic.” Since arriving in September, Solecki has had doubts regarding his major. These doubts have only intensified throughout his Freshman year. “I used to be stressed and worried all the time. At least now I know that I’m leaving Emerson, and I’m going to find another college to go to.” Still, Solecki is stressed about his future. He is moving back home in May and knows that he wants a bigger school with more diversity, but he has no idea what he wants to major in. He admits feeling jealous of his friends who are more sure of the path they want their life to take. Solecki is currently physically sick due to stress over the future. Dr. Cheryl M. Rosenthal, the Director of the Counseling Center at Emerson, gives many tips to students who feel that their stressful lives are becoming too much. Rosenthal strongly urges students to use the Counseling Center. She used the Counseling Center when she was an undergraduate student at Bowdoin College and had a extremely positive experience. Rosenthal’s professional interests include spirituality and psychotherapy, the use of humor in healing, and human sexuality. Rosenthal said that being open about stress, even if problems seem insignificant, is vital to feeling relaxed again. “The good thing about Emerson students is that they are usually able to talk about their stress and are very resilient,” said Rosenthal. “They bounce back pretty quickly! Once they make sure they’re sleeping, eating some decent food, getting some exercise in their lives, they do better.” Although college is a time for entering the adult years, Rosenthal urges to never let go over your inner child. “Remember what you used to like to do as a child and do more of that.”

Stress: When is it Too Much? Text // Michelle King | Photo // Lauren Kroll

Najya Mawasi

he drove into the shelter lot with everything she could load into her car, plus her nine-month-old child. Najya Mawasi, currently a Broadcast Journalism major, class of 2011, sat in her car, everything around her, forces ready to gust her existence away. She looked to the back of the car, there laid a baby, sweetly sleeping, clueless her mother was being torn apart inside. Clueless, they were both homeless with nowhere to turn. In 2003, about seven months after bearing her child, Mawasi was laid-off from work. Unable to pay for rent or any other basic needs, and after tirelessly looking for work, Mawasi was evicted from her home with a child in her arms. She had been working since graduating high school as the face and voice at front desks - a receptionist at various financial organizations. “In the world I had no voice, neglecting my objectives everyday.” She would see the men and women passing in and out of elevators, all with an essence of power in their cologne or lipstick. She wanted to know what they had that she did not. “Once, I stopped a women who I would always see come into the office whom I was fascinated by.” Mawasi asked, “How do you do it; how did you get to where you are?” In the period between Mawasi’s high school graduation and the loss of her job, she searched hungrily, seeking reason. The women replied, “Work hard, very hard,” and went on her way. “I will never forget that.” At the time, she did not know what to do with what the woman had told her. And a few years passed until she was able to realize the complexity of the women’s simple response. “I was in complete pain. It was agony, waking up every morning. I wanted nightly darkness to rush the day’s sunlight away.” Being evicted in 2003 was a traumatizing experience, but it was still incomparable to what she was about to experience. The last twenty years of her life, Mawasi had constantly prayed and called upon a voice to save her, to reach to her, and show her a new path. “It punched me in the face - to act, to wake up, to stop being hopeless.” Mawasi was re-born between the

hours her eyes and heart were melting; between the minutes she realized her daughter’s breathing was louder than the madness of the shelter. When the staff at the shelter told her when she could sleep and when she had to awake, she knew she had to become independant. Two days after being at the shelter, Mawasi had reflected and was awakened. She could no longer be there. She called the social worker to tell her that she was leaving the shelter. The social worker was clear that if Mawasi left the place she wouldn’t be able to return, and she could no longer receive any help. She told Mawasi to hold on; the social worker was looking to find her a “Scattered Sight” (small apartments leased by social services for people in Mawasi’s situation.)

“

You have to help others in order to get ahead; One’s existence here is not about one.

”

Soon Mawasi moved into a the tiny apartment, but this was not what she wanted either. “Contradictory to what you may think, experiencing homelessness wasn’t as devastating as the feeling of hopelessness, the inability to a foreseeable future.” But this had changed. Inside her hope flickered. “Self reflection and intervention helped to identify key issues that affected my inner being.” Now in her mid-thirties, she is ready to become the epitome of a nontraditional student. “I don’t want to be in this situation anymore,” she told her social worker. “I want an education.” Mawasi was awarded the “One Family Scholarship,” specifically designed to propel single mothers back into the scholastic realm. She started at Bunker Hill Community College in 2003 where she met her mentor, Liz Walker. After a year at Bunker Hill, she was ready to cross register at Roxbury Community College (RCC). There she met Lisa Yaeger, who first introduced her to Emerson College. “When I met Lisa, she told me I should apply to

EM MAGAZINE

transfer to Emerson.” Mawasi had always had Emerson in the back of her head but was resistant to apply. Months later, at RCC, Mawasi crossed paths with Lisa Yaeger again in one of the info sessions. Mawasi approached Yaeger, and to her surprise, Yaeger remebered her and turned to her saying, “Najya, how are you? How is you daughter?” This lifted Mawasi’s spirits and grasp of Emerson College. “I just knew this was the place I wanted to attend.” She knew she was on the right path, and she knew that she had met Lisa Yaeger for a reason. Mawasi describes Yaeger with much regard. “She was instrumental, the first and primary contact who boasted me.” “I love Emerson; I love being an Emersonian.” Mawasi is involved as a co-facilitator of Campus Conversations on Race, host of the Hip-Hop show on WERS 88.9, and an intern at WGBH, Brighton, MA (Working with the Production of Basic Black), a show catered to African American issues. Mawasi is a mother, a student, and a role model for many. She still works with the social office that first helped her, giving inspirational speeches and encouraging others who are seeking hope. “You have to help others in order to get ahead; One’s existence here is not about one.” Najya Mawasi means Saved, in the Hands of God (from Swahili Origin). “Everyday I try to live up to my name.” Everyone around her believes she is, especially her biggest critic and imitator, her daughter Sadai Mawasi. Today many people recognize the audaciousness necessary for Najya Mawasi to make the 360-degree turn in her life. Her daughter, Sadai Mawasi, is a light for Najya Mawasi and a source of strength and potential. However, it is evident Mawasi has a deep source of strength within herself, as confirmed on the day she was reborn, December 4, 2009. The tears that fell on her palms represented a cleansing of the self, the hopelessness she felt in her abyss, who she has become today, and the legacy she wants to leave behind.

Features // 41

Becoming Najya Mawasi

a mother, student, and role model Text , Photo // Binsen J Gonzalez

SPRING 2010

41 \\ Features

Kevin to Kaylee The lengths one student pursues to find unity between body and mind Text, Photo // Emily Dyess

“Today we have a special vistor,” Tulasi Srinivas quiets her Gender in a Global perspective class. In walks an average Emerson student, Kaylee Castroverde, 5’9 dressed non-descript, black t-shirt, shorts and a hat. “Hey could you hold on one second,” asks Kaylee Castroverde. She rips off the black shirt, hat and reveals a pink v-neck, pink long hair and an anything but an average explanation. This visual transformation quickly quieted a room of 45. After only a few months of coping with this transition herself, Kaylee Castroverde vocalizes the pains and trials of living in an out of body experience day-to-day. For Kevin Castroverde the traditional division between pink ribbons, bows, dolls, ballet performances, princesses and little league, G.I Joe and superheroes was as isolating as being trapped on a desert island. Growing up in Memphis, Tennessee Kevin Castroverde always wanted to play and dress like the girls but never knew exactly why he wanted to, just that he did. It was a moment on the during school that he realized this wasn’t going away. “At seven years old, on the playground, was when I started to question things, but it wasn’t a fleeting thought. It was something that consumed me everyday,” said Kaylee Castroverde, Writing for Television As Castroverde grew up, his confusion with identity led to constant ridicule from his peers, calling him names, teasing often resulting in him being alone in group activities. “I used to always try and cross the line and man, did I get picked on. I was always different. I would always play by myself because I didn’t feel as though I fit into either group,” said Castroverde. “In 6th grade I was that kid, I was an easy target, I was the boy who cried as a reaction to the teas-

ing which is a very feminine thing to do.” This lead to a painful educational experience. Little did he know it then, but Castroverde suffered from what doctors call gender identity disorder, a physical and psychological conflict that affects thousands of people in the United States, who usually keep it a secret. Gender Identity Disorder is when the physical and psychological identity of a person conflict, one situation, a person with the genitalia of a man who identifies as a women. Around the age of 13, Castroverde took a strong interest in computer sciences and spent all of his free time working with computers. “At this point I started questioning things but it wasn’t until years later that I finally had access to it. I found a passion in computers and found comfort in technology and solidarity. If I was alone no one could pick on me, no one could hurt me. So I was home-schooled from eighth grade to twelfth grade.” Castroverde attended the University of Memphis and studied Japanese. He took the opportunity to study abroad while attending the University of Memphis and spent time in Nagoya Japan. While in Japan he was able to fully immerse himself in the culture but realized despite being so happy with where he was and what he was doing, he could not be truly happy while living as a male. He returned home and ultimately had the courage to confide in his mom, who had independently raised him and his sister. “When I first told my mom, she thought

I was gay. I got that all the time, people just assumed I was gay, there was no question about it. The sexuality aspect is different, gender being your social role in society based on sex,” Castroverde said. During the time of his transition to Emerson College, He also began the transitional process of changing his gender from man to women going by the name Kaylee, officially changing all legal and school documentation. Walking down Boylston street was one of the few places Kaylee finally felt comfortable with who she was. Each day she takes horomones to further the transition from the sex she was born as to the gender and sex she really is. She received clearance to begin hormone therapy in December of 2008 from her psychologist. “As you study Gender in a Global perspective recognize that gender is social, sex is biological and sexual preference is who you chose to be with,” Castroverde explains to the class. She then went on to play a short film she produced in Fall 2008 , The Story of Mr. Platypus, which works as a metaphor explaining in simple terms the emotion and confusion that Gender Identity Disorder can cause. A playtpus believes he is a duck but all of his friends tease him telling him, no you are a platypus. “I’ve never once been teased, mocked or picked on at Emerson,” said Kaylee. She now participates in many awareness activities such speaking to classes and hosting events in which she discloses her old identity.

“I used to always try and cross the line and man, did I get picked on. I was always different.”

EM MAGAZINE

Features // 42

envy lust sloth tackling the seven wrath deadly sins pride gluttony greed

how emersonians keep their vices in check

Caitlin Danahy found herself in a strange situation when her boyfriend moved into an apartment with three female roommates. Most of her friends and acquaintances are baffled at her composure: she is not jealous. Danahy, a Writing, Literature, and Publishing major, Class of 2013, has been dating her boyfriend, Patrick Dagle, for just over four years. Their relationship began while she was a freshman and he was a sophomore at a different high school. Danahy was a student at Hopkinton High School in Hopkinton, MA, while Dagle went to Algonquin Regional High School in Northborough, MA. “We live twenty minutes apart at home, so we’re used to being at separate schools,” said Danahy. In regards to his living situation, the notso-jealous girlfriend admits that she was not too keen on the idea in the beginning. “When he first told me, I said, ‘No, you’re not doing that,’” she said. While the obvious solution may seem that the couple move in together, Emerson policy prohibits freshman to live off campus, although the two plan on living together in the near future. In regards to arrangements for this year, Dagle and Danahy’s mutual male friend originally planned to move into the apart-

ment with the two girls, who neither previously knew. Circumstances changed for the fellow male, leaving Dagle and the two girls without a fourth roommate, a spot that was soon filled by…another girl. Upon hearing the news of the newcomer, Danahy claims that the main source of her initial hesitation was derived from how she thought she was supposed to feel. “There was something in me that recognized it was something I shouldn’t be okay with as his girlfriend, something that other girlfriends would probably be opposed to,” she said. Her developed nonchalance is also due to the fact that, without Dagle’s three current roommates, he wouldn’t have had a place to live.” After he explained the situation, I just accepted it because I knew there was nothing he could do about it, anyway. It didn’t bother me any more after that. I also don’t think either of us had any say in the situation.” Danahy even put a positive spin on what could have been a turbulent dilemma. “I was actually kind of excited to meet [the three roommates] and hopeful that we could become friends, since I was going to be a freshman and didn’t know anyone around the area yet,” she said. Danahy beats the temptation to be envious with the tried-and-true value that is a

SPRING 2010

central element in successful relationships: trust. “I think it just comes back to the relationship. It all depends on if your relationship is strong; nothing like that should get in the way. So, maybe if you are feeling envious, then there’s a problem with the relationship in the first place, and that’s what needs to be fixed.”

Envy

Text // Karen Harris Photo // Demetra Lymberi

43 \\ Features Diana Filar looks like any Emerson student you’d expect to see strolling down Bolyston Street. Coffee in hand, she blends in easily with the fashionable and independent student body. Most would never guess that this easy-going college student is a devout Catholic, as well as the president of the Newman Club, Emerson’s Catholic group on campus. Born in Poland to an extremely religious family, Filar, a Writing, Literature, and Publishing major, Class of 2012, has been going to church every Sunday for as long as she can remember. “My family was the kind of family that wouldn’t eat meat on Friday, even when it wasn’t Lent,” Filar said with a laugh. Her family immigrated to Connecticut when she was young. Now in college, Filar continues to practice her religion as best she can. “It’s definitely not as easy at college. There are a lot of distractions and temptations,” Filar said. “And I’m not perfect. But I try my best to make good decisions and recognize right and wrong.” Filar admits that being a Catholic in a liberal, agnostic environment like Emerson can have its problems, but less than some might think. This includes her dating life. “I’ve dated while at school,” she said, “and I would never date anyone just be-

cause they weren’t Catholic. But my policy is that if someone can’t accept my religion, something that’s a huge part of me, then that’s a problem.” Fellow Newman Club member, Kelly Cross, agrees. “Of course having someone with the same views as me would be great, but I’m not going to completely shut someone out if they don’t share my religion,” the Writing, Literature, and Publishing major, Class of 2012 said. “It doesn’t matter what religion someone is to me. If I like them, I like them. But they have to accept me too.” But when it came down to the issue of sex, Cross made herself clear. “The Church’s views are no sex before marriage, and I adopt those views” she said. Filar also says that just being a Catholic in the classroom can have its struggles. “A lot of times I’m wary to show my religion in class discussions because then it can quickly become you versus everyone else. You don’t want to be known as the ‘Jesus Girl.’” Filar also says that misconceptions about Catholic college kids are abounding. “Once I had someone ask me if I thought dinosaurs existed. Really? It’s that kind of stuff that makes me mad.” Even with the challenges that being religious in college presents, Filar says her religion is more to her than just a set of beliefs. “My faith gives me a sense of hope.

Casey Shane’s performance stages come in three forms: the traditional kind, in the theater; through the lens of a camera; and on the soccer field. Always on the go, he is no sloth. Shane is proud of being born and raised in Manhattan. The son of two Broadway performers, he has always been surrounded by and involved in acting. As a member of the Class of 2010 at Emerson College, Shane continues his involvement in extracurricular shows while finishing his Broadcast Journalism major, taking voice

lessons, and being a captain of the soccer team. Shane, quite simply, does it all. It is no rare occurrence for him to be running straight from his voice lesson to another rehearsal, but not before a brief session to practice his lines. He often considers himself lucky when he finds time to grab a bite to eat. Shane actually recognizes many of the principles of the stage, camera, and the field closely intertwined. “I find sports and theater to be right next to each other. When you’re onstage, you are a character. You are performing,” Shane said. “But that’s essentially what you’re doing on the soccer field, as well. You’re being creative.” He emphasized the need to be an independent performer in all respects. “Soccer is a game where there are no set plays, no time outs, nothing like that. You, yourself have to create the goal or create the pass or make the run, just as you, yourself; onstage have to create the character, sing the right notes, learn the monologue,” Shane said. Having grown up surrounded by stage performing, Shane’s parents encouraged him to venture into a major other than Acting, like Broadcast Journalism, as a potential career path, just to try something new. “I think of it as

envy lust sloth wrath pride gluttony greed EM MAGAZINE

It’s always been a constant in my life,” she said. “When I’m having a bad day, it’s nice to know that there’s someone you can talk to.” But when it comes down to it, Filar wants the rest of the Emerson student body to recognize that being Catholic doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time. “I’m still going to go out and have a good time,” she said, “but I won’t forget who I am or what I believe in.”

LUST

Text // Erin Doolin Photo // Danni Scully

a performance in itself, anyway. I mean, you’re sitting in front of a camera, wearing a suit—let’s say a costume—and reading a script off of a teleprompter, which is essentially what actors do,” he said. Shane attributes his sanity to the support of those around him. He makes sure to clarify his meaning of “support”: he’s not talking about the need for constant praise; he’s talking about the mere presence of those who can make him laugh. Even so, he warns that the “sloth” can catch up with him, especially when his schedule becomes particularly hectic. He said, “I can be going strong for four days, and then I’m like—” he stopped to let out a laugh— “‘Don’t talk to me for a day, everyone go away.’ ” He continued, in all seriousness, “I just sleep, watch TV, take the day for myself, go out with my friends...” He stresses the importance of halting the chaos in order to take a breather. “You have to take time for yourself. You just have to... If you don’t, you forget about yourself,” he said.

sloth

Text // Karen Harris Photo // Gaul Porat

Features // 44 Christel Hyacinthe rolls into the room on an office chair, singing with a smile on his face. This goofy, cheerful marketing communications sophomore is here to talk about wrath, and how he represents it. He doesn’t beat around the bush, saying, “My nickname in high school was Black Chris. I don’t miss that place. It was just so bad… just like, eight black kids, total.” That’s reason enough to have some wrath, which Hyacinthe considers to be revenge, or a person’s way of expressing it. He explains that wrath is merely an “angry word,” associated with violence, which gives it its reputation as a deadly sin—but it’s really just a typical emotion with a bad name. Hyacinthe is a worthy candidate to describe wrath; he is an aspiring comedian, and his revenge on the world is making fun of it. “Do I represent wrath?” he asks as he spins around in his chair in a Dr. Evil manner. “I do by expressing myself through comedy, to get my point across, or rather, to release any anger that I’ve had. By doing this, my cynicism shines, and that’s my humor.” Hyacinthe explains that the best kind of comedy is that which tells the truth; it’s a glimpse inside somebody’s brain. “When you do stand-up, and you tell it honestly— everyone in the audience can see it. They

can feel it. In the instance that you’re doing it, people who may have dealt with similar situations instantly put themselves in the situation and connect with you,” he said, making it “Christel clear” that the best comedy is reality. “If you tell a bunch of dick jokes, it’s fake, and people can tell. Anybody can tell dick jokes. If you talk about what bothers you, and some shit that happened in your life, it can be funny… and people can relate,” Hyacinthe explained. “Catharsis,” he calls it. “I’m not only expressing my feelings, but the audience’s too, and it becomes their release as well as mine,” he says of his favourite part about performing comedy. This release, laughter, is not something that Chris Hyacinthe fails to cause. One may expect Hyacinthe’s list of extracurriculars to consist of comedy troupes, but he is active in a variety of groups. He is in EBONI (Emerson’s Black Organization with Natural Interests) and SPEC, a group in which students write speculatory scripts. He was recently cast in an Emerson Channel comedic show called “Mailroom,” about spies who must work their way up in an agency, starting in the mailroom, and as the Wiz in the April production of “The Wiz.” “In freshman year, I did stand-

Cultural Pride. Religious Pride. Familial Pride. What is it that separates them from the frowned upon hubris? In the Multicultural Center, a hub for Emerson’s most diverse students, sits Charles Gryor Flores DeRupé, working an afternoon shift. A Filipino freshman Marketing Major with Chinese, Mongolian, Spanish and Japanese blood, DeRupe has reason to be proud. He is the Co-President of A.S.I.A. (Asian Students for Intercultural Awareness), and this is only one of many ways he shows his pride. DeRupé told his opinion of pride as a deadly sin. “Pride is only hurtful when you center yourself around it—when you drown yourself in so much that the others around you no longer matter,” he explained. “This is true of all deadly sins—they’re only sins if used in the wrong way.” While DeRupé does not embody the egocentric side of pride, he is a big delegate for collective pride. DeRupé is very proud of being Christian and of his heritage, which certainly shows; in A.S.I.A., he is representing Asians and the issues that come with being a minority—all the while, raising awareness. His pride does not end there; DeRupé said that he also feels “the pride of blending everyone together, from all different cultures.”

DeRupé works in the Multicultural Center for Tikesha Morgan. A familiar name to anyone with ECMail, Morgan is the director of multicultural student affairs. There, he gains the satisfaction of being surrounded by diversity. DeRupé was born in the Philippines, and has continued to be raised with Asian principles and traditions, including familial and educational values, which play a huge role in his character. DeRupé cheerfully explains, “I love everything about being a Filipino! We’re a country that isn’t like others in Asia—we’re Christian based, but also have characteristic Asian values. The Philippines in itself is already a pot of east meets west, and that’s what I am.” When you are such an exemplification of your nation, a distinguished sense of pride and patriotism is inevitable. DeRupé certainly does have one. He has found that people from various cultures often face a feeling of isolation. “Becoming isolated makes you find your identity, and by coming to terms with it, you eventually become proud of who you are, and can stand up for it.” Being “different” is also an opportunity for him to introduce Asian values and traditions to new people, something he is always looking to do. DeRupé explains himself as a “mixture” consisting of his western ideals, indepen-

up a lot—I’d push myself to,” he explained, noticing a lack of any on his list. It could be suggested that Hyacinthe is not as eager to do the comedy because he’s released so much of his anger—to which he responds, “Nah, I’m still a cynic. It’s more of laziness. Maybe I’m sloth.”

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Text // Veronica Del Rosario Photo // Gaul Porat

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dence, open-mindedness, and Asian values. He concludes, saying “I’ve learned that the straight A’s, the awards and recognition— I’m not proud because I’ve achieved it, but because of the values that have been implemented in me, which represent a whole people with those same virtues.” This seems to me like a wonderful kind of pride, which does not seem at all deadly.

pride Text // Veronica Del Rosario Photo // Gaul Porat

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While the average college life might not exactly mirror the extreme parties represented in films and television shows, partying and drinking are still an undeniable, and nearly unavoidable, aspect of the college life. Data from the 2007 National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism indicates that about four in five college students drink and about half of these college student drinkers engage in binge drinking. Liz Fisher, a Freshman Visual and Media Arts student, has made the rare decision to not engage in drinking during her college life.

Often, a certain stereotype can revolve around college students who choose not to drink. They can be perceived as reserved or boring, but Fisher certainly does not fit that stereotype. She is a member of Emerson’s Quidditch team and spends her weekends with friends going to the movies, the North End, Club Rise a 18 and up club, and parties. “My choice to not drink has not inhibited me from going to any social activity,” said Fisher. “I really do not feel that my choice to drink is a large part of my life. It doesn’t stop me from socializing.” Fisher made the decision after her first encounter with alcohol in high school. “I went to pick up some of my friends… and they were all trashed,” said Fisher. “We had to babysit them so they acted somewhat normal. In the end, they got busted [by their parents].” That initial encounter with alcohol was enough to turn Fisher off of drinking. Her choice not to drink came into play when she was deciding what college to go to. She had been choosing between Ithaca and Emerson and eventually picked Emerson for many reasons, including its reputation on not being an intense party school. In her time at Emerson, Fisher has seen

more situations where people are drinking alcohol responsibly. Two of Fisher’s friends, Emerson freshman Ryan Barnada and Matt Lowe, share Fisher’s decision not to drink. Barnada and Lowe are on the Quidditch team with Fisher and the three often go to parties together where they are able to have a good time without drinking. Having Lowe and Barnada around has helped make Fisher feel comfortable in her decision. Lowe does not ever plan to try drinking, but Fisher considers drinking one day when she is the legal age and can trust herself to drink without taking it to the extreme. Although this choice has worked for her, Fisher respects the decisions of others and does not judge their decision. For Fisher, the decision not to drink has made her be a more individual thinker in many different aspects of her life. “I’ve always done what I wanted to do without the peer pressure of anyone else,” she said. “I figure it’s my life, no one else is allowed to call the shots. “

Her blue work gloves were only two dollars. But to Writing, Literature, and Publishing student Hannah Klinger, Class of 2010, they possessed greater value beyond just being plain rubber garden gloves bought at a Home Depot. Klinger recalls the first time she gutted a house that had been completely flooded by Hurricane Ike as being a really intense experience. After cleaning out the dilapidated house, Klinger had to give up her completely ruined blue work gloves that she had owned since her first service trip during her sophomore year of college. She may be hungry for more relief work, but Klinger’s character qualities exemplify everything except greed. “It was just one of those things where we were all working, but we didn’t say anything because we just couldn’t say anything,” said Klinger. “We would find things like a school picture of this woman’s daughter, and that was so tough because she didn’t want to leave. This was her home, and all of a sudden it’s reduced to this disgusting, bug-infested home that she couldn’t set foot in.” After times like these, Klinger truly feels the emotional impact of such work. “The thing that I like about relief work is that it is just work and it feels really good,” said Klinger, “You’re digging a hole or hammering nails or scraping compound and I love doing work that feels really good knowing that it is making a difference.”

As a member and fundraising coordinator of Emerson College’s Alternative Spring Break, this semester was the third time Klinger spent her ten-day vacation giving back to her community. Klinger’s first trip was especially empowering because she knew a lot of people that after Hurricane Katrina came to live in Birmingham, Alabama- her hometown. “I felt more connected to that disaster and wanted to help out. The first year I participated in Alternative Spring Break we went to Waveland, Mississippi, 45 minutes from New Orleans.” After attending a Buddhist retreat this January called Ancient Wisdom Modern Madness at the Shambhala Mountain Center in Colorado, Klinger learned how to relate to herself by connecting with other people and cultures. Growing up at home with a mom immersed in the Buddhist culture, this was the first time Klinger was able to experience it with other students her age. “I wanted to reconnect with Buddhism but separate from my mom because I’ve always been sort of at her heels, following her around or going to programs because she was there,” Klinger said. During the retreat, all the students would sit in a circle and have check-ins where they would talk in what was called cross talking, no one was allowed to comment or give the other advice. “People should just feel like they can share it. Your job is to lis-

ten but that’s it. People shared some really tough stuff. We all got really close. You kind of have to be close in order to open up to everyone about what’s going on with you,” Klinger said. Whether digging holes, hammering nails, scraping compound, or listening to other people talk about themselves, Klinger’s only greedy attribute is aspiring to make a difference as great as she can. “That’s what keeps me going back.”

EM MAGAZINE

GLUTTONY

Text // Michelle King Photo // Gaul Porat

GREED

Text // Michelle Golden Photo // Demetra Lymberis

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meet spring fashion

gluttony

Dress (worn as top) $414 and skirt $245 courtesy of Holiday. Balenciaga clutch $995 and sandals $795, and crystal flower necklace $1,560 courtesy of Gretta Luxe. Lucite bangles courtesy of Alexis Bittar.

lust

White strapless dress $88, deconstructed flower dress $68, and fish eye dress $88 all courtesy of LIT on Newbury.

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J Brand jeans and Acne pumps courtesy of The Tannery. Navy boyfriend tee courtesy of LIT on Newbury.

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Pride

Yigal Azrouel black and nude dress $1,020 and white dress $1,000 courtesy of Gretta Luxe. Gold and clear bangles $22 courtesy of Holiday. Studded earings and white ring courtesy of Alexis Bittar.

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Blouse $298, jacket $398, skirt $238, silver knot necklace $32, stud earrings $22, and bracelets courtesy of Holiday. Jimmy Choo pumps $625 courtesy of Gretta Luxe.

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GLUTTONY Director // Becky White, Casey Neidorf Photo // William Tyner | Model // Amelia Viner Stylists // Justin Reis, Alex Oanono, Michaela McCrink Hair // Michaela McCrink | Makeup // Karen Harris LUST Director // Emily Dyess, Justin Reis Photo // Gaul Porat | Models // Chelsea Grater-Cafiero, Jacqueline Exline, Alyssa Altman Stylists // Justin Reis, Alex Oanono, Michaela McCrink, Talia Ralph Hair // Alex Oanono | Makeup // Karen Harris ENVY Director // Casey Neidorf Photo // Will Van Beckum | Models // Lauren Gaba, Taylor Light, Olivia Moravec, John Rossi Stylists // Alex Oanono, Michaela McCrink Hair, Makeup // Karen Harris, Alex Oanono, Michaela McCrink SLOTH Director // Emily Dyess Photo // Danni Scully | Model // Hannah Fleishman Stylist, Hair, Makeup // Alex Oanono, Michaela McCrink

PRIDE Director // Victoria Guerrera, Casey Neidorf Photo // Casey Neidorf | Models // Julie Hubbard, Andrew Bear, Rosa Valentin Stylists // Justin Reis, Alex Oanono, Michaela McCrink Hair, Makeup // Karen Harris, Casey Neidorf, Alex Oanono GREED Director // Joanna Arpie, Lauren Landry Photo // Valentijn van der Sloot | Models // Dave Goldberg, Lane Brenner Stylists // Justin Reis, Alex Oanono, Michaela McCrink, Talia Ralph WRATH Director // Victoria Guerrera, Binsen Gonzalez Photo // Binsen Gonzalez | Model // Jeanette Sanchez Stylists // Justin Reis, Talia Ralph Hair, Makeup // Monique Alvarado All unattributed clothing and accessories are the model’s, stylist’s, or director’s own. Email inquiries to emmagonline@gmail.com

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