The Voice #6 by Alisha Ramos

the voice261

an official Harvard College student publication

ISSUE 6 oct 2nd, 2008 www.theHvoice.com

burglaries on our campus

How safe are we?

Recent hike in crimes on campus has students worried; Voice investigates what happened

LOSS OF A LEGEND:

Paul was more than just a star

GET A FREE SHAKE! with this issue of the voice read more on page 15

Anxious about getting a job? Explore alternatives.

INSIDE men fall fashion, elevators and dolls, brain donations

2 campus buzz harvard in bits SENIOR HELP NEEDED

PECHA KUCHA The gathering of artists, urban planners and fashionistas arrives to Boston

Snobism or art: presenters gather in a nightclub A lot of the crowd seemed to be gulping down their drinks for a trip to oblivion BY BRIAN SHEN

Zuckerberg hires a Harvard Republican

With the number of sightings rising around the U.S., Pecha Kucha has taken over. It is is a gathering of wanna-be ‘artsytypes’ (ranging from the fashionista to urban planners) in a location for a fun and innovative way to exchange current ideas

Former chief of staff to U.S. Attorney General Gonzales and Harvard grad Ted Ullyot was hired by Zuckerberg as Facebook’s general counsel.

AFTER CONCUSSIONS

and discuss their professional undertakings. It’s already in 138 locations globally. Cause to be alarmed? No - it isn’t an outbreak of some horrible disease. Though, judging by my lackluster experience, it might end up being like one. Once I arrived, it was hard not to notice that everyone’s hair was perfectly styled, the attire was posh and sleek, and that everyone’s neatly manicured hands holding a glass o f wine or a classy cocktail. All the welldressed attendees, and supposedly those at the cutting edge of their fields, came for a series of slide shows and lectures. I found it as

Grad agrees to donate his brain Noah Welch, Harvard’s grad in the NHL, has agreed to donate his brain for research after his death.

STILL INDEPENDENT

Everyone’s hair was perfectly styled, the attire was posh

e l o q u e n t as listening to someone with a form of aphasia talk about architecture, urban planning, and the technicalities involved with each. The out-of-order slides, combination of uninteresting topics, and speakers without much to say proved to be too much. Half the audience was not paying attention to the droll of the voice in the background. They were, however, intently gulping down their drinks for a faster trip to oblivion. Oh, and that’s right, there was an intermission. Why? Perhaps the organizers wanted to let everyone ponder over the ideas that they (apparently did not) absorb. Perhaps they wanted to allow time for

more at the bar gulp down some so Mantra would at least make more money. It crossed my mind that this time would convince attendees not to bolt, on the off-chance that one of the speakers would be inebriated enough at the end to give humorous spin on their work. And who could leave after the intermission, because that’s where all the seats were cleared out for the dance party. That was when the thirty-somethings were supposed to steam up the dance floor to the tribal beats the DJ spins, under the glowing and serene lights that make Mantra simulate a far eastern experience. With all the buildup of the sleek advertisements, I was thoroughly disappointed. Save your Thursday night the next time you see one of these ads and go to a real bar or club. Perhaps there you’ll find someone equally artsy - but more articulate and less of a bore.

“It’s a love story; a love story between two NY women”

An exciting NY story in Loeb Theater New Yorkers are always looking for at least one of the following: a new job, a new apartment, and a new love. For two New York women, Callie and Sara, the last comes true, but not without a tragic caveat. As they share their first kiss, a hateful bystander sees them and attacks, leaving Sara in a coma. What follows is promised to be a touching, nuanced, and very modern spin on the age-

old love tale. Director Olivia Benowitz notes that the play is essentially a romance, not a political statement. “It’s a love story, pure and simple; it just so happens the two people falling in love are women. It puts a very human face on a very controversial issue, and because of that I think it’s timeless,” she said of her directorial debut. The original cast included Sandra Oh and Jessica Hecht in the roles

of Sara and Callie, respectively. Stop Kiss will be performing from October 3rd-5th at 7:30pm, October 4th at 2:30pm, and October 9th-11th at 7:30pm. Loeb Theater! Rachel Flynn ‘09 plays Callie, Christina Elmore ‘09 plays Sara, Jack Cutmore-Scott ‘10 plays George, Alison Rich ‘09 plays Mrs. Winsley/Nurse, Charlie Riggs ‘10 plays Detective Cole, and Barry Shafrin ‘09 plays Peter.

CHANGE OF GUARD New leaders take over HRTV

Koenings steps down as HRTV President Michael Koenings led the production of CrimsonClips.tv Derek Flanzraich. Most famous for co-founding Harvard Hooligans, an online comedic TV series, Koenigs led HRTV in its production of CrimsonClips.tv, HRTV’s online distribution channel.

After a successful tenure, Harvard-Radcliffe Television’s Michael Koenigs stepped down as president earlier this week. Koenigs passes the torch to current vice president Eric Paternot and On Harvard Time’s

A GRAD’S PERSPECTIVE Voice Columnist Adam Goldenbeg reports on Canadian elections, Facebook, and dangers of digital nostalgia

Harvard Book Store Has New Owners After 46 years of owning Harvard Book Store, Frank Kramer decided it was time to pull out: new owner is Jeff Mayerhson.

BILLIONAIRE ELI BROAD

Nattering nabobs of nostalgia, on the net: You are completely, totally screwed COMMENTARY

Adam Goldenberg Voice Columnist

$45 million for education Multibillionaire Eli Broad decided to invest $45 million into a new education research institute at Harvard, devoted primarily to improving education in public schools.

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA — Leaving college is harder than ever. The usual challenges apply—finding an apartment, figuring out how to use an over, losing your job when your investment bank collapses. But what really takes the fun out of being a 20-something these days is the internet. Thanks to Fa-

cebook, airbrushed versions of happy college memories don’t wait long post-graduation to start popping up and comparing unfavourably to the day-to-day reality of post-college life. When summer at the office becomes late summer at the office becomes Labour Day at the office becomes October at the office, there’s really nothing like creep-

ily flipping through your younger friends’ party pictures to remind you of how awesome it was not to be in a suit at 9 p.m. on a Saturday. Or, as the case may be, how great it was to be in a suit, in an F. Scott Fitzgerald story, at 9 p.m. on a Saturday. The silver lining, of course, is that there’s no end in sight. “Web 2.0” is like the Encyclopaedia Britannica of youthful indiscretions. Seniors who are auctioning off their souls to Wall Street— or to Main Street, or to whatever you still have down there—are probably pulling all-nighters

this month, furiously Canada are finding out expunging their sopho- that, try as you might, moric stupidity from you can’t burn digital the Google caches of the negatives. We’re in the world. But even if the middle of an election up pictures of here, too—ten you grindpoints if you ing semiknew that The nude with already—and best four the Spee’s candidates years of your stuffed bear are self-imlife never end. don’t deny molating at a They refuse to you that dizzying rate. go away. desk job There you’ve alwas the canways wantdidate in ed, you can northern rest assured British Cothat they’ll lumbia, a come out of the closet former mayor, who took some day, when it serves pictures of herself—nayou least. ked—wearing her may Politicians in oral chains. Someone got

them off her, um, hard drive, and they showed up on the nightly news. Two Vancouver candidates dropped out of the race in quick succession a few weeks back, after internet videos surfaced of one of them dropping acid while driving, and of the other getting a little too stoned as the cameras rolled. A sprinkling of candidates from across the country have landed in hot water because of blog posts, videos and podcasts in which they variously criticize their own parties, demand 9/11 Truth, threaten their opponents, and do other

things that can only be fairly described as “so college.” It would all make for marvellous political theatre, were it not so absolutely terrifying. Our generation will be the first whose entire lives have been digitally documented, and none of us will be able to escape the excesses of our youths. The politicians of the future will either have to determine a statute of limitations on stupidity, or else spend their whole careers on their heels. It’s a choice between chaos and utter boredom—surely we don’t want to entrust

our world to people who didn’t do incredibly reckless things in college. Such political veganism would be unappetising, at best. If I’ve learned anything since leaving Harvard’s tweedy embrace, it’s that the best four years of your life never end. They refuse to go away. Adam Goldenberg ’08 was a columnist for The Voice and The Harvard Crimson. Since graduating, he has done nothing worth investigating.

VOICES

this is where you tell the campus what you think

from the blogs Coming Home and Losing My Mural

Through The Cracks by Morgan Potts

by Steven Duque

I came home this year to a place more different than any experience I’ve ever had of my city, Houston. Perhaps more accurately, things’ve definitely changed. Many of my old friends are now graduated from college; one’s even made the down payment for his first home. I visited my high school alma mater, and discovered that the cafeteria in which I ate many of my meals was

by Emily Cregg I lost my senses fall of sophomore year and didn’t find them for a long time. For months I was a shattered mess, ground up by anxiety and depression, a loose screw in our university’s whirring gears. When things were at their worst I thought unclear and insane things. I slept in interminable fits or lay awake all night, my mind running obsessively through a

Have your say!

Join the online discussion! gutted – prepared for summer renovations and construction of new, better facilities for the school’s students. And when I came back to the house I grew up in, I found my backyard in chaos. Most surprisingly, the wall on which, as a child, I’d painted a mural of a garden scene for my mother was partially removed...

Celebrating the Fashionably Unstable

DISCUSS:

www.theHvoice.com

OR SEND AN EMAIL:

voices@theHvoice.com

million colluding fears. Even my own language developed a strange independence. Words came back to me, first in echoes, and then in whispers hissing at me like leaking gas. My body fell away. My blood stood still and all my skin went ashen....

from the EMAILS “ The drinking age should definitely be lower.”

“Aren’t your headlines a bit too sensationalist?”

In the Spring 2008 issue of The New York Times Style Magazine: Women’s Fashion, an article entitled “Certifiably Chic” commented upon the style industry and the American media’s current celebration of mental instability. Characterized as an aesthetic of “Demented Chic,” it applauds unwashed hair, a messy dishabille worthy of

asylum inmates, and pays homage to “women on the verge” like Sylvia Plath and Anne Sexton (or Mary-Kate Olsen, if you’re not literarily-inclined). A selfconscious appreciation for all things tragic and pathetic is a necessary accessory...

“I’m so glad you guys decided to do a feature on Diamond magazine - I thought I was the only one who got one of his emails!”

“I liked the first issue, but I feel you should have professors contributing again, as you did last year.”

Great work, this reminds of The London Paper!

4 campus buzz

With a dramatic hike in reports of theft and assault, our campus now ranks as one of the least secure among Ivy league colleges. Voice reporters investigate recents crimes that took place on campus

“We try to be much more vigilant. But we’re not sleeping with knives next to our beds.” WRITTEN BY:

Charlotte Austin Voice Reporter

AND:

Rachel Libeskind Voice Editor

596

victims of burglary in Cambridge, MA

The night of this past September 22nd, an unknown perpetrator crept amid the shadows between the towering buildings of DeWolfe. We assume he scouted, leering, peeking in windows, praying for prey. What we do know is that he found some. The individual (and his possible entourage) removed an object known to criminals as a “jimmy” and forcefully pried the screen off the window of a first floor suite. He heaved their guilty frames into the common room and amassed whatever valuables lay in his paths. Un-

satisfied with the booty that bulged in his bags, he entered both bedrooms in search for more. Soundly asleep, the victims lay unaware of the presence of an intruder.

trator’s brow. Yet, we didn’t get the usual HUPD email update about this inciden. Such a crime should be widely reported, keenly investigated, but few students have even heard the tale. A crime notice was posted on September 28th, giving a curt and simple description of the crime. Along with the reportage of the creepy DeWolfe break-in, the crime notice that was posted (and subsequently emailed) told of another fresh crime. One of the victims, Will Miao ‘11, said of the incident, “Me and my roommates try to be much more vigilant about not leaving the room unattended with the door unlocked, locking the door after ourselves and even storing our valuables in a safe place when we have people over, but we’re not sleeping with knives next to our beds or anything. It’s just crazy to think that had I been placed in a different house or a different building/ room, I would still have my laptop.” According to Francis D. Riley, HUPD chief, the 27th of September 2008 was a dark day-and not only weather-wise--for some unlucky residents of Quincy House. His salt and pepper goatee wet from the torrential rain, an unidentified thin man in khakis and an apron sauntered

Princeton students were victims of burglary on campus

Yale students were victims of burglary on campus

261

victims of burglary on Harvard campus

DEWOLFE: The criminal removed the window screen of a first floor suite roommate reported that burglar grabbed the computer and fled the scene of the crime immediately.

“When I chose Harvard over Yale I thought I was leaving most of the crime behind in New Haven.” The criminal was certainly experienced, for he silently rifled through the victim’s jeans, proceeding to remove wallets and ipods from the pockets. Laptops, the college student’s lifeline—his or her golden thread, were ripped from their snug slumbers (we all know how Macs breathe) as their power cords were torn from the power strip between the victims’ desks. The burglar hastily exited, leaving no trace but the emptiness of what he hadn’t left behind. This is one of the more frightening crimes on Campus, as the victims could nearly smell the sweat on the perpe-

into a Quincy room this past Saturday and stole a student’s laptop. (Yes, the description was that detailed— it appears that wearing khakis is a new criminal trend.) Purportedly, he had attempted to charm three other students, but they managed to realize that men with aprons mean business, mean business, and insightfully foiled his hoodlum plans. The criminal, tired of being turned down, finally got lucky when he entered a fourth room and spotted the lone laptop. The victim’s roommate was present, agape, and probably completely startled (to say the least). Once able to speak, the

The dramatic hike in theft reports leaves our investigators wondering whether the recession has finally hit home. Hearken back to the e-mail all students received about the incident on September 10th: “A male student reported... that he was the victim of an unarmed robbery in the Cambridge Commons at approximately 9:00 PM. The victim while traveling through the park was struck from behind by an unknown individual. The victim turned around in an attempt to defend himself and was struck several times by three additional unidentified males re-

sulting in a bruised and swollen lip and two bumps on his forehead.” According to the Boston Globe, one Michael Kelly, 26, of Lynn, Massachusetts was apprehended in connection with the crime. Police reported that the criminal used the victim’s credit card at multiple stores in Harvard Square. The perpetrator was video-graphed in the act of illicit purchasing. Congratulations to the fine policemen and women who solved the crime,

but what about the rest of the victims? Two male graduate students were robbed at gunpoint on Sunday September 21st, while walking at approximately 1:30 am. The gun-toter has not yet been caught. He roams free at this very hour. Cambridge is certainly not a stranger to such violent crimes. A walk home through the yard at night inevitably prompts the wanderers to conjure up morbid thoughts. Foot-

steps echo over the dark, labyrinthine paths that carve the lawn. They ricochet off the stately brick walls that house this venerable institution. On May 6th, 2008 a first year undergraduate, passing by Houghton Library, down towards Pusey Steps, was the victim of a terrifying assault and battery. A lupine figure leapt from his subterfuge in the shadows and drew a thin wire around the young woman’s neck. She managed to knee him in the groin and flee while he gasped for the cool summer air, doubling over in pain from the efficacious and life-saving blow.

TIMELINE: CRIME HIKE STARTED LAST SPRING January 5th, 2008 - A female staff member is the victim of an attempted unarmed robbery on the corner of Plympton and Mill Streets (between Lowell, Quincy, and Old Leverett). The suspect, described as a white male in his early 50’s, grabs at her purse, pulls her hair and punches her in the face before fleeing, luckily, without the woman’s purse. January 16h, 2008 – A male undergraduate student is the victim of an armed robbery while

walking by the Semitic Museum on Divinity Avenue at around 10:30PM. The suspect runs up to the victim, displays a knife, and demands his wallet. The victim complies, and is unable to provide a description of the subject to the police. February 27th, 2008 – A laptop and a television are stolen from a room in Thayer Hall at around 11:20 PM. The suspect entered two separate rooms in Thayer, asking for a student whose name

no one recognizes. The suspect manages to leave one of the rooms with a student’s TV and laptop. No one is injured. The suspect is described as a Hispanic male in his 30’s. March 2nd, 2008 – A around 9:00PM, a female undergraduate student is the victim of an indecent exposure on the corner of Mill and Plympton Streets. The suspect approaches the student from behind, taps her on the shoulder as if to return a fallen

item. When she turns around, he opens his coat and exposes his genitals to her. The suspect, described as a white male in his 50’s or 60’s, fled the scene immediately. May 6th, 2008— Attack of the Wire Strangler. May 21st, 2008 – While walking on Grant Street (which separates the Leverett Towers and Dewolfe), a male undergraduate student is the victim of an assault and battery at approximately

8:55AM. The victim is tackled from behind and assaulted before he manages to fend off the offender and flee. The suspect, described as a Hispanic man in his 20’s, does not speak to the victim at any time during the assault. This assault shatters the sense of security of the everyday early-morning jogger, and certainly of the young academic hastily making his or her way to a lecture.

6 reviews I had the privilege to work at The Hole in The Wall Gang Camp, which Newman founded. He was too sick to visit

The loss of a legend: he was more than just a movie star Paul gave more than $250 million to charities around the world

Voice Reviews Editor Alex Doubet finds himself stuck in an elevator - unfortunately, not with the Dolls

Sexy dance songs vs. bland elevator music

BY KATY MILLER With Paul Newman’s death on September 26, the world suffered a great loss. The depth and magnitude of Paul Newman’s passing is, quite simply, immeasurable. It’s nearly impossible to describe the impact this man had on the world. From his remarkable donations to charities around the world - a total exceeding $250 million - to founding The Hole in The Wall Gang Camp, Paul Newman was a visionary committed to serving those in need to the very end. I had the privilege to work at The Hole in The Wall Gang Camp this past summer, an opportunity I am thankful for more and more with each passing day. The amount of love, healing, hope and fun at the Camp is beyond anything I’ve had the honor to experience. To be brushed by Mr. Newman’s kindness and generosity is to feel a connection with something deeper, something sublime - something that resonates to the very core. Words simply cannot do his life’s work justice. To say that I - and millions of people around the world - are deeply saddened by Paul Newman’s passing is an under-

reviews WRITTEN BY

Alex Doubet Reviews Editor

YouTube Review: Death Star over San Francisco If you’ve never seen Star Wars, then stop reading now. You probably won’t appreciate this video. But, if you have seen Star Wars (and who hasn’t, really?) then read bravely on! “Death Star over San Francisco,” uploaded recently by user Swarby on YouTube, is a cool video combining machines from Star Wars and various videos taken in and around San Fran. With Cloverfield, firstperson style camera work, the whole effect is one of dropping you into the city in the midst of an impromptu invasion by the Galactic Empire.

Newsman starred in numerous amazing movies Words simply cannot do his life’s work justice

s t a t e m e n t . He has left behind

a beautiful legacy of compassion, caring, joy, and generosity. Let us not forget that in this sorrow, there is hope to be found. Take a cue from Mr. Newman and reach out to those in need. Celebrate his spirit by taking time to lift your head from the day to day. Think and act for more than just yourself. May his vision continue to soar.

Death Star over San Francisco, and some vocal warbling The video starts with a zoom toward the Death Star, and proceed from there to a star destroyer, some elephant walkers, TIE fighters, and all the various spaceships you’ve no doubt seen in the movies. While some shots are more effective than others- several of the spaceships are quite obviously spliced in- most of the video will put a smile on your intergalactic face. The video’s about a minute too long, but like the inimitable Yoda, you can always use the Force (of your hand) and navigate away.

YouTube Review: Brian McKnight – “Coming Back Home” Brian McKnight’s “Coming Back Home” has a great and positive message, so I feel a little pang of guilt in saying that this video is booooooring. The basic thrust of the video (I think… it’s a little hard to follow and mystical) is that three guys are straying from the path

through gambling, infidelity, and playing dice/abandoning a kid on a porch step with his basketball. Like I said, I was ever so glad that the three guys mended their ways, but did they really have to do it so dully? All the vocal warbling in the world (and there’s a lot in this song) couldn’t hold my interest. The production is cheesy and, by the time cars and people start disappearing with little magical twinkles (don’t ask), my little pang of guilt re:boredom had fled completely. This is a video full of clichés and boring. But still, it’s wellintentioned.

Time of the Conqueror Doll Domination Jackson Browne The other day I was in an elevator and I heard Jackson Browne’s new album Time the Conqueror. Wait, no. Let me rephrase that. The other day I was listening to Jackson Browne’s new album Time the Conqueror and it made me feel like I was riding in an elevator. There’s nothing particularly disagreeable about the album, but perhaps that’s what makes the album so bland. Time the Conqueror is just a repetitive parade of vanilla mush that’s supposed to be a protest album.

Browne’s latest effort comes nowhere close to his anthemic highs like “Running On Empty.” That’s a forgivable sin, perhaps, as so many artists fall into the same trap, but it’s by no means a reason to buy the album. I can’t with good conscience even recommend any of these tracks for download. The best this album can hope for is some good spins as background music to wine-and-cheese parties. Time the Conqueror is just plain mediocre.

Don’t listen!

The Ultimate Nineties List 1. Gangsta’s Paradise - Coolio 2. Vogue - Madonna 3. All That She Wants - Ace of Base

Pussycat Dolls The production of the Pussycat Dolls’ Doll Domination is unquestionably the star of the album. And with producers like Timbaland and Danja, the album has an excellent pedigree. Still, having a famous producer doesn’t guarantee a great song, as evidenced by Timbaland’s annoying effort on the screechy and repetitive “In Person.” Overall, Doll Domination is more good than bad, but the last part of the album does slow down considerably. It starts off on a great note with “When I Grow Up,” the album’s first single,

best song, and a pounding dance track at that. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the ballads and other down-tempo numbers are completely skippable, not for lack of trying on the part of the producers, but rather because Nicole Scherzinger (the Doll’s Lead singer) doesn’t have the vocal chops to carry off a song sans driving beat.Doll Domination certainly won’t hold any kind of place in the pantheon of meaningful recordings but still, it’s worth a listen if only to add some songs to your dance playlist.

Listen!

4. Sex & Candy - Marcy Playground 5. Fantasy - Mariah 6. No Diggity - Blackstreet & Dr. Dre 7. Virtual Insanity - Jamiroquai 8. Mama said knock you out – LL Cool J 9. The Way- Fastball 10. Torn - Natalie Imbruglia What are your 11. MIami - WIll Smith favorite nineties 12. Playground Love- Air songs?

8 partners

fashion & shopping

Web Fashionista

MEN’s FALL FASHION powered by:

the tannery

Meet junior Nan Ni, shopping addict. You’ll know who she is if you sit behind a chic Asian girl in lecture who spends the entire time scoping out handbags online. With the limited shopping destinations in the Square and Newbury several T-stops away, unique style seemed out of reach at times for the fashionista trapped in the 02138 bubble. But fortunately, the internet makes a whole wide world of retail accessible with a just the click of her mouse. Here are three of Nan’s favorite websites, with coupon codes she found just for you readers.

classic chic with a timeless twist. Even Better: Sign up for Nicchia’s mailing list and get 20% off your first order Not So Good: Nicchia’s selections run a bit pricey for a college student’s budget, although their sale page offers several sweet steals for under $200.

spotted... ...in Lamont Even on a rainy and miserably muggy Saturday, The Voice scoped a fresh and chic Hist & Lit concentrator looking fabulous at the library. Here, the fashionista-hopeful explains her own style and gives some advice on how to dress for the fall.

DIANE CHOI junior, kirkland house

Cardigan: J.Crew - on sale for $30

Tunic: Jovovich-Hawk for Target - $15

Maneater Threads

Skirt: American Apparel - $30

(www.maneaterthreads.com) Good: With an eclectic selection of both established small labels and edgy up-and-coming designers, Maneater Threads is the place to go for a dress that runs no risk of meeting its twin at winter formal. The boutique carries everything from punky, spirital jewelry by Made Her Think to the elegantly draped creations of Project Runway finalist Rami Kashou, and has a sizable sale section to boost. Even Better: Save 30% sitewide with discount code “toutie30,” and shipping is always free!

MODEL:

james bailey

Not So Good: Because the site is based in San Francisco, your online purchases will take about 5 days to arrive in Cambridge.

Rag and Bone striped shirt, $267 J brand jeans, $184

Nicchia (www.shopnicchia.com)

Grenson brown shoes, $286

Photograph by Anna Tong

Standard Deviation (http://www.standarddeviationny.com/) Good: For the girl who likes to push the boundaries of fashion while still staying within the confines of decorum, Standard Deviation offers satin tops by Gossip Girl designer Lorick, highwaisted jeans by Grey Ant, and studded crop jackets by Nicolas K. If you’re trying to craft a Saturday night outfit that stands out for style, not skin, Standard Deviation will be the answers to your fasion prayers.

Not So Good: Standard Deviation carries a limited stock of each size and style, so that perfect blazer you were eyeing today might be gone tomorrow.

WHAT HE’S WEARING

Corpus purple cashmere cardigan, $271

Even Better: Near-instant gratification! Shipping is free, and almost overnight, since the clothes are coming from NYC.

senior, quincy house

1. 2. 3. 4.

Tights: Forever 21 - $8

Good: It comes as no surprise that Nicchia was featured in Harper’s Bazaar as a “style leader.” This boutique has an elegant, upsacle feel, boasting carefully-edited selection of pieces from designers such as Alexander Wang, Theory, and Moschino’s Cheap and Chic line. Nicchia is the perfect place for the Harvard gal who craves

Shoes: From Beacon’s Closet in Brooklyn. “This is my favorite vintage store. They have everything from alligator skins to Converse sneakers to BCBG dresses straight from the runway.” - $20

Umbrella: “I got this for free! My guy friends found it at a party and thought it was too girly.” A true hipster—“I like fashion that bucks the trend”—Diane says that she doesn’t read fashion magazines. Instead, she looks to personal blogs and street chic for inspiration. “Fashion is part of your lifestyle, not something that’s only accessible to the rich.” Some of her favorite bloggers include Facehunter and Garance Dorè, a French girl who peruses Parisian streets to photograph well-dressed people. For most of her own clothes, Diane says that she shops almost exclusively at vintage and consignment stores. “Second Time Around is a great place in the square.” When asked her do’s and don’ts for this fall, Diane quickly exclaimed, “there are no don’ts! You can make anything work, as long as you have a clear vision of what sort look you’re going for.” As for some definite do’s, “the boyish, androgynous look is great for days when the weather isn’t so nice, or when you don’t want to wear heels.” Diane suggests a minimalist, boxy black blazer, which goes with everything. Another musthave for the season is a high-waisted skirt. “These are great because they make your legs look ridiculously long! Pair it with an understated top to downplay the drama of the skirt.” Diane’s ultimate fashion-do? Be comfortable in your clothes. “People should wear whatever they feel hot in. Of course, that doesn’t mean it’s fashionable (a hot pink mini skirt is never chic!), but if you pair something bold with the right piece, it’s always in style.” –Paige Holtzman ’10 Photograph by Anna Tong

12 a deeper look

WRITTEN BY:

Katherine Miller Voice Executive Editor Perhaps you’ve heard the news? Wall Street is in trouble, recession is a reality and job offers are harder to come by than a handle of good vodka at a room party. In light of such, how shall we say, unpleasant developments, many Harvard students are forced to become creative in their job search. So put down the Vault Guide to Consulting, leave the business casual attire alone for a moment, and take a moment to explore an often overlooked – but highly visible industry. Harvardwood is a volun-

Worried you might not land a job in the collapsing financial industry? Check out a fun alternative.

formal support from Harvard as inspiration. “While I was at Harvard I knew I wanted to go into the entertainment industry and found there were no career resources for me,” Mia says. “Even to this day they’re not as good at it as there are to ‘traditional’ careers such as law or medicine. And it’s certainly very paltry compared to schools with historically stronger ties to the arts and entertainment industry,” “Harvard University bureaucracy has always frowned on Hollywood as The Wild West, certainly not the most presti-

Harvardwood has members working in film, TV, books, music, radio, publishing, journalism. teer-run, nonprofit organization gious industry to go into.” for Harvard alumni, students, But when all is said and faculty and staff interested or done, what can Harvardwood currently working in the arts, do for you, dear undergradumedia and entertainment in- ate? Turns out there’s plenty of dustry. Yes, folks, we’re talking resources just waiting to be acabout Hollywood. Lights, cam- cessed. Current students can beera, and action. come members by logging onto Started in 1999 by Mia Harvardwood.org and creating Riverton, Stacy Cohen, and an account. Be warned that the Adam Fratto, Harvardwood has yearly dues are $40. Still, if you grown from a fledgling listserv can’t cough up the cash for full to an organization 2200 members membership, anyone can join as strong. Based in Los Angeles, an affiliate to see the names of there are Chapters in Boston, people in the industry, the types Chicago, London, Los of positions ofAngeles, New York, fered, and the opSan Francisco, Toronportunities that Check to, and Washington, Harvardwood proout www. D.C. Internationally, vides for its memthere are Harvardbers. With any Harvardwood. wood members living kind of memberorg and working throughship - whether full for more info out other areas of or affiliate - you’ll North America as receive two reguwell as Europe, Latin lar e-publications: America, Asia and Harvardwood Australia. Weekly, and the And no, Harmonthly newsletvardwood isn’t just a ter Harvardwood resource for those who have a Highlights. collection of pretty headshots And of course, there and vague notions of fame a is Harvardwood 101. During inla Nate Dern (Beauty and The tersession each year, this career Geek, season 3). “We’ve really exploration program brings Hargrown in diversity,” Mia River- vard undergraduates to Los Anton says. “We have members geles to give them a sneak peek currently working in film, TV, designers, high-tech people, books, music, radio, publishi ing, journalism – it’s really all aspects of arts, media and entertainment.” When asked about Harvardwood’s beginnings, Riverton points to the lack of

Have your say!

What do you plan to do after college?

behind the glamorous curtains of the entertainment industry. The program began in 2003 and is cosponsored by the Office for the Arts and the Office of Career Services. Harvardwood 101 activities include visits to studios, working film sets, talent agencies, production companies, and music labels, as well as panels with industry professionals. Applications are accepted in November, and applicants must be a full member to apply. Launched in 2007, “Harvardwood Presents...” brings industry professionals to campus for seminars and workshops with Harvard students interested in their particular area of expertise. Past “Harvardwood Presents...” programs have included screenwriting, TV writing/producing, and film/TV casting. Still in the works, “Harvardwood Presents...” will most likely take place in mid-November. Last but certainly not least, there is the Harvardwood Summer Internship Program (HSIP) for students trying to get a foot in the door of the arts, entertainment and media industries. HSIP provides a list of summer internship opportunities, and holds career-related activities throughout the sum-

DISCUSS:

www.theHvoice.com

OR SEND AN EMAIL:

voices@theHvoice.com

2200 members of Harvardwood

mer for participating students and companies in NYC and LA. Accessed at www.Harvardwood. org, HSIP opportunities are announced and applications accepted beginning in March.

UNDERGRAD STUDENT GROUP

Student group coming soon • This fall saw the creation of Harvardwood Undergraduate Student Organization, a place for current undergraduates to explore the various aspects of and opportunities in the arts, entertainment and media industries. • “The Harvardwood Undergraduate Student Organization hopes to educate Harvard undergrads about the entertainment industry, provide resources to gain valuable experience in the industry (from production to direction to writing to marketing and beyond), and give direct access to the knowledge and experiences of Harvard alums that now have careers in the

entertainment industry,” says HUSO President Ansley Rubinstein. • Althogh the Harvardwood Undergraduate Student Organization is a separate entity from the Harvardwood, the group works closely with Harvardwood members to facilitate events for undergraduates. • To express interest in joining HUSO, send an email to Ansley Rubinstein at adrubins@fas. harvard.edu. Please include your name, year, and what areas of the entertainment industry you are interested in. Opportunities are available for general membership, as well as board positions.

14 partners

make

your voice

heard!. STARTING YOUR BLOG: for your cause for your group for your self

the voice join the team

www.theHvoice.com

RATING CONTENT: from our writers from professors and leaders in their fields from readers and users like you

bring this issue of the voice to b.good tonight...

and get a FREE SHAKE!

16 food & drink

17 FOOD QUALITY New rankings on college food come out: our college is nowhere near the top

You know what? Food at Harvard isn’t all that bad BY KAYLA FELD The Princeton Review’s “The Best 368 Colleges, 2009 Edition” compiles a series of lists categorizing the quality of various aspects of universities, including academics, demographics, and student life, that assists prospective students in differentiating among the plethora of US universities. One poll, ranking the caliber of campus-provided food, placed Wheaton College, of Illinois, at the top in a list of twenty, followed by Bowdoin College (ME), then Virginia Tech (VA), and finally ending with University of Georgia (GA). The question remains, where is Harvard University? Given the quantity of hapless complaints I hear

Voice reporter Josh conducts a comprehensive and studious investigation of the new beer garden

Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy Waitresses are prompt, and the beer was served almost immediately BY JOSH FEBLOWITZ As Benjamin Franklin once said, “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” And while it’s not exactly the Garden of Eden, Harvard Square was recently blessed with a haven of a different sort. The Beer Garden, an extension of the Harvard Square icon Charlie’s Kitchen, offers a new and fresh atmosphere along with a great selection and affordable prices. The Beer Garden, which opened in July of this year, reminded me in many ways of a European sidewalk café. The sunken patio is tucked away from street noise, which creates a cozy atmosphere despite the open-air. The understated and breezy outdoor décor contrasts starkly with the much louder interior of the Kitchen. When I arrived around 6pm it was easy to get a table - though it did get significantly more crowded later on. The one thing that differentiates the Garden from its European counterparts is the prominence of “No Smoking” signs and the crisp, smog-free air that results.

This is the new best place for beer in the square

Pints are $5 a pop and the “pint” size is generous, putting the Garden squarely in competition with other cheap eateries of the Square. The selection is diverse and wellrounded, with a few more daring options. Standards include, Bud, Blue Moon, Boston Lager, Oktoberfest, UFO and Harpoon IPA, among others. The selection is rounded out with a few more interesting beers including Magic Hat #9 (my favorite), Berkshire Steel Rail, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, Harpoon Raspberry UFO and

the exotic - and expensive- Belgian Chimay. Mixed drinks come from inside and take slightly longer to arrive. (But honestly, if you’re looking for a good martini, why are you at the Beer Garden?). Don’t worry about having to wait too long to get a cold one - the waitresses were prompt and attentive and the beer was served almost immediately. The food orders were speedy as well, despite the fact that they had to come from the main kitchen inside Charlie’s. The Garden offers the same cheap, delicious and artery-clogging pub food as the Kitchen; the menu is extensive, and along with the $5 pints, it’s nearly impossible to complain about the price. The only aspect of service that I found disappointing was that our waitress could tell us very little about the beer, especially

Have your say!

Do you think beer is God’s gift?

the more unusual options. The one downside of the Beer Garden is the temperature. In midSeptember it was already uncomfortably chilly and I found myself wishing for a jacket only a few minutes after sitting down. Though the space would lend itself very well to the use of patio heaters, there are none to be found. Sadly, our waitress was not aware of any plans to begin using them. However, if we’re lucky enough to have this idea catch on, we could be sipping pints under the stars in February, warm and cozy despite the Boston weather. My advice to you: grab a warm jacket and check it out before it starts snowing! The Beer Garden is, in the humble opinion of this budding beer connoisseur, the new best place for beer in the square.

DISCUSS:

www.theHvoice.com

OR SEND AN EMAIL:

voices@theHvoice.com

around dining halls, I sought to determine if other external sources shared similar perspectives on the banality of the Harvard culinary experience. Determined to investigate this issue by applying the most rigorous scientific process, I researched (googled) several other arbitrary online ratings to ensure that Harvard had managed to achieve a place among the top twenty of any other ranking that I might cite. My attempt to find an anomaly website that would even mention Harvard’s gastronomical prowess failed after sifting through several arbitrary rankings of MSN Encarta, Yahoo.com, and even suite101.com, ‘weird college rankings’ (interestingly, we also did not rank high on the lists of best weather, most convenient parking, or hottest boys and girls).

Chris Lim Voice Columnist

After several wasted minutes of careful investigation, I began to wonder: how much does this really matter? Harvard University Dining Services does make an incredible effort to provide a consistently high level of quality across the board. Additionally, friends using the meal plan system at other schools with a reputably higher quality of food will likely report that the minor improvement in taste - and likely, appearance - can in no way compensate for the unlimited portions our dining halls provide. This option allows for unlimited freedom to produce one’s own masterpiece, thus suggesting that some of the student complaints can be disregarded because they have missed out on the opportunity to exercise their own creative capacity in selecting the

appropriate ingredients. Whether the cuisine at Harvard can be substantially improved to the point where we knock off all competition from the top-twenty campus dining experience lists implausible (and for the most part unworthy) goal. But within Harvard it is possible to provide our own ranking of the dining halls, and to this end, a brief survey was conducted in order to evaluate the student consensus on which of the Harvard dining halls are considered to provide the best quality food, most consistently. The fact that the two best dining halls are also both the farthest out of the way should come as no surprise. Dining hall staff are less stressed about supplying a massive quantity of food to the horde of DHA-suited athletes who rush

into the D-hall at 7:10 to pick at the remnants of spinach ricotta pie or consume the last of baked ziti in sausage sauce. Yum. The winners (and losers): Annenberg, Mather*, Lowell, Winthrop, Pfoho, Cabot, Leverett, Adams, Quincy, Elliot, Currier, Dunster** *Mather, by default, is ranked above Annenberg, and given that it shares a kitchen with Dunster, it probably has a higher quality of food than the rank indicates. But, given that virtually no one is aware that Mather even has a dining hall, it must be relegated to the lower end of the spectrum. **The significance of this short, scientifically conducted survey is not imminently obvious, and more data will be needed to evaluate a greater purpose.

food column

Welcome to my column! Let’s explore the local restaurant scene together When you think back on your childhood you (hopefully) have some fond memories of a couple activities you did on a regular basis with your parents. Maybe they took you jogging or hiking, or threw a baseball around with you in the evening. Perhaps you helped them cook dinner or walk your pet dog. In my case, what I did (and still do) regularly with my family was dining out. I grew up in New York City, where the standard of good restaurants is exceptionally high, where the food scene is constantly evolving, and where competition between chefs is fierce. From a young age, I was raised to appreciate both food and dining out (the two are not the same)—and it is for this reason that the Voice has taken me on as a food columnist. Why is food important? The health reasons I would hope are obvious. Especially because of the intensity of college life, our well-being—both physical and mental—is rarely in ideal condition. You can make a conscious effort to eat well and thereby treat yourself well. I actually think HUDS is pretty good for college dining, but given dining hall hours, the kitchen’s occasional off-days, the repetition of menu items, and our busy schedules (not to mention our picky tastes), eat-

ing out becomes a common activity for almost all Harvard undergraduates by necessity. Eating is also a part—if not the center—of almost every social interaction between people. From the popcorn at the movies, to the punch at a party, to, well, dinner out, you’re pretty likely to find food wherever you find two or more people. And let’s just say that dining out for your birthday or going on a date won’t work just anywhere—even great food alone won’t be enough to make a given restaurant the right place for every occasion. Plenty of other factors besides the quality of the food make a dining experience a good one. It’s a good thing that Harvard is in Harvard Square, rather than the middle of nowhere. Although I have to admit that (by New York standards) the Square and the Boston area as a whole are lacking in the way of fine dining, it’s not a bad place to be a hungry college student—everything is just a minute or two away by foot. In this column I hope to appeal to students’ tastes and needs in food. In future pieces, I’ll primarily be reviewing new places in Harvard Square, as well as giving recommendations for various special occasions and events. But for this first piece, I’ve made a list

of my top picks in the Square, in alphabetical order. This assortment of eateries intentionally is diverse; I considered all “dining out” factors—not just food quality, but also price, ambience, convenience, service, et cetera. I hope the following is a useful guide to freshmen who have yet to explore the Square as well as to upperclassmen looking for a couple new places to try. THE LIST Cambridge 1 – Inventive, thin pizzas are Cambridge 1’s specialty, where the creations range from a pizza with potato, fontina, parmagiano, and romano to another with lobster, corn, and scallion. Its dark, minimal but tasteful interior gives the restaurant a casual and cool atmosphere, well-suited for college students. And with personal pizzas starting at only 7 dollars, Cambridge 1 is also a great bargain. 27 Church Street / 617-576-1111 Darwin’s Ltd. – Though neither branch is exactly located in Harvard Square, Darwin’s serves delicious sandwiches that make the walk worth it. The recipes are interesting, the ingredients are fresh, and you’re bound to find a sandwich you really love in their extensive menu. Additionally, the coffeeshop ambience of Darwin’s makes

it a good place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or to get in a few hours of studying. 148 Mt. Auburn Street / 617-354-5233 1629 Cambridge Street / 617-491-2999 Felipe’s Taqueria – Fundamental to the Harvard student’s diet, Felipe’s offers simple burritos and quesadillas that are light and tasty, not to mention the cheapest in the Square. Add to that its convenient location in the Garage and the fact that it’s open until 2am Thursday through Saturday, and you know you’ll be stopping by regularly for a late night snack, whether after a hard night of partying or studying. 83 Mt. Auburn St. / 617-354-9944 Harvest – Tucked away in a nondescript building off Brattle Street, Harvest serves classy New England fare in a tranquil, open dining room. The dishes are refined and reliably well prepared, with rich local flavors. Especially notable is the three-course Sunday brunch. 44 Brattle Street / 617-868-2255 Henrietta’s Table – A spacious restaurant in the Charles Hotel presents dishes that use ingredients from local farms and fisheries. The

food is delicious and refreshing in its simplicity, and the ambience is also relaxed and friendly. Prices are quite reasonable given the quality of the food—breakfast, with its large portions, is a great bargain in particular. One Bennett St / 617-661-5005 L.A. Burdick – Lovers of chocolate will revel in L.A. Burdick’s sweet creations. Harvard students seem to know it best for its intensely thick hot chocolate, but the selection of rich cakes and, of course, delicate chocolates is impressive. Elegantly wrapped gifts boxes also make excellent presents—especially if they include the chocolate animals (which include penguins, mice, and bees), which are almost as adorable as they are delicious. 52-D Brattle Street / 617-491-4340 OM Restaurant & Lounge – Unusually swanky for Harvard Square, OM serves flavorful Asian fusion cuisine in a stylishly designed location, though its menu also includes American regulars like Caesar salad and steak. The ground floor bar has a great, exciting vibe, while the dining area upstairs is quieter and provides nice views of Winthrop Park (the square on JFK Street). 92 Winthrop St / 617-576-2800

18 weekend fun

Voice reporters explore interesting events in the area; yup, there is life beyond Harvard Square

Craig Ferguson to perform in Boston this weekend October events throughout Boston will celebrate different heritages 1. 10th Annual Roxbury Open Studios Sat., Oct. 4 & Sun., Oct. 5 FREE www.roxburyopenstudios. org With ‘ART ROX’ as the theme, this anniversary year will include new works by Mass College of Art & De-

selves economically and professionally. Over 150 artists will participate this year and will share a broad range of works from painting, sculpting, home décor, photography, quilt making, jewelry making, clothing, mix media, and more. This event is free and open to the public.

DEAR

Celebrate your inner German, Italian, or Polish spirit this month during

fully to their views—you all might learn something in the process. If your friends exile you for politely disagreeing

“They might catch you watching Fox News”

Sincerely, A Closet Conservative

sign’s Black Student Union, five additional studios, and the Haley House will launch a special exhibit featuring Roxbury painters. Sidewalk Sam will also bring a special installation to the streets of Roxbury with his noteworthy series of sidewalk paintings called “Doves of Peace.” This interactive project will collaborate with the Boston Police Department, youth, and the community to replace the many makeshift memorials throughout Roxbury with white doves. Roxbury Open Studios aims to help artists leverage them-

2. Craig Ferguson Friday, Oct 3 7:00pm Saturday, Oct 4 9:45pm Wilbur Theatre, Boston, MA From $35 www.ticketmaster.com Scottish comedian and host of the ‘The Late Late Show’ on CBS, Craig Ferguson will perform stand-up on both Friday, October 3 and Saturday, October 4. Ferguson, once a regular on the Drew Carey Show, has seen his popularity sky-rocket after begin-

the voice PUBLISHER STEVEN R. DUQUE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MIRAN PAVIC

WEB DIRECTOR OGNJEN ILIC

www.theHvoice.com

Dear Closeted, There is no reason to be ashamed of your political views. In fact, it’s healthy, and somewhat surprising, that in spite of your conservative status, you maintain a natural sense of humor (even if you are faking it). Try engaging your friends in an objective political discussion in which you respectfully explain where you’re coming from, while also listening thought-

German American Heritage Month, Italian American Heritage Month, Polish American Heritage Month. Month-long, there will be

events to celebrate each respective culture and heritage.

EDITORIAL TEAM EXECUTIVE EDITOR KATY MILLER REVIEWS EDITOR ALEX DOUBET FASHION EDITOR ANNA TONG CAMPUS BUZZ EDITOR JEFF BENGEL PHOTO EDITOR RACHEL LIBESKIND VIDEO EDITOR ALEXA WEST

COMIC BY JAMES KOHL PRINTED BY TURLEY PUBLICATIONS

BUSINESS TEAM DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS NICHOLAS PAPAMICHAEL MAN. OF STRAT. ADVERTISEMENT CARMEN COLLYNS MAN. OF DISTRIBUTION ZACH FRANKEL MAN. OF FINANCE MATTHEW LEE DIR. OF COMMUNICATIONS THOMAS WIONZEK MAN. OF EVENTS DEREK FLANZRAICH MAN. OF COMM. RELATIONS CATHERINE CHUTER STRAT. ADVERT. CONSULTANT MAJLA CUSTO STRAT. ADVERT. CONSULTANT MZIKO LAPIASHVILI

REPORTERS ELIZABETH NICHOLAS CHARLOTTE AUSTIN IRENE YUAN ANDY LIVINGSTON PROF. JASON KAUFMAN ADAM GOLDENBERG MICHAEL GLADSTONE WOLF RADIC DOMINIC DENUNZIO ALLISON BAUM LAUREL TAINSH LINGBO LI BRIAN SHEN CRISTOPHER LIM JOSHUA FEBLOWITZ

Voice Columnist

Am I the only student out there supporting John McCain? Dear Allison, Like most of Harvard, my roommates and best friends are rabid liberals. I admit that Tina Fey is a funny gal, and that John McCain is indeed pretty old. Although I laugh at all the jokes about them, I am afraid to admit that I actually sympathize with the Republican ticket and will probably secretly vote for McCain. How do I express my views without becoming a political pariah in my social circle?

ning to host ‘The Late Late Show’ in January of 2005. 3. The month of October Throughout Boston www.bostonusa.com/images/admin/logos/ExploreMulticultural.htm

ALLISON

Allison Baum

with them, then maybe they’re not as good as friends (or liberals) as you thought. And besides, if you don’t speak up now, there’s always the chance they’ll catch you watching Fox News and you’ll be exposed anyway. Why not reveal yourself on your own terms? Dear Allison, At the end of last year, I was in a solid relationship that felt like it would last forever. My

boyfriend felt the same way, so we decided to block together. Needless to say, we had a rough break-up over the summer, and now I have to see my ex everywhere I go in the house. It seems like he’s everywhere I turn and I don’t know how to act. Can you help? Sincerely, Living in a Haunted House Dear Haunted, Yeah, that sucks. Maybe you should have thought this one through last year. But now that you’re stuck in a messy situation, the best you can do is just be yourself. I’m sure you’re a very nice person, in spite of what you might have said or done during the end of

your relationship. Say hi, be polite, and always be the kind of person you want to be, even if it is a bit awkward at first. It can only get better with time. And if it doesn’t, just transfer houses. Dear Allison, My roommate has been unbearably moody and depressed lately. Whenever I ask him what’s wrong, all he mumbles is “it’s just the markets these days..” I know he’s worried about getting a job, but how do I tell him there are more important things going on in the world? Sincerely, Seeking Freedom from the Financially Depressed

Have your say!

Send your own problems to Allison!

Dear Seeking Freedom, When everyone at Harvard is blatantly obsessed with the job search, it’s definitely tough to enlighten your roommate without seeming like an asshole. Try probing a bit deeper when you ask what’s troubling him. There is a possibility that your roommate is actually pretty normal and something more serious is wrong, but he just finds it simpler to mask his deeper issues by mindlessly worrying about the economy. If he doesn’t open up, you can always just tell him to get a life and move out. That’ll probably get the message across. There’s nothing lamer than someone who can’t see the big picture.

GO TO HER BLOG:

www.theHvoice.com

SEND HER AN EMAIL: allison@theHvoice.com