Celebrating the Holidays | 12/11/2015 | Red&Black

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s t u d e n t n e w s pa p e r o f w a s h i n g t o n a n d j e f f e r s o n c o l l e g e r e d a n d b l a c ko n l i n e . c o m w a s h i n g t o n , p e n n s y lva n i a December 11, 2015

students celebrate holiday cheer on campus page 4 Courtesy Brittany Graft

OPINIONS: MARKO RUBIO PAGE 15

SPORTS: BRIAN GRAYTOK PAGE 19

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English Master’s Program to be Offered Campus Question Tyler Phillips Red&Black Staff

W&J is taking a big step in scholastics with a new Graduate Program in Professional Writing, scheduled to begin in the summer of 2016.

When W&J first began considering graduate programs, the college hired Tripp Umbach, an educational consulting firm, to make this a reality.

After examining the surrounding area and nearby universities that support graduate programs, the firm provided the college with a report of the programs that it has the capacity to offer, one of which was a program in professional writing.

Writing and Grammar and Research Methods are the two required courses for all students, which are intended to give students grounding in the basics of professional writing.

These courses will cover the practical underpinnings for Professional Writing, teaching how to construct memoranda, proposals, recommendation reports and marketing materials.

Of the general elective courses, Layout and Design, Social Media and Proposal Writing are three courses that stand out in the program.

Along with the other electives, these courses are

designed to offer in-depth study of topics that are important to most fields of professional writing.

The techniques taught in these courses are beneficial to students who plan on pursuing different careers, including journalists, lawyers, healthcare professionals and small business owners.

The specialized electives of the program are much more career-centric and are target people who are either currently working in a career, or are strongly considering such a career.

Examples of these courses include Web Design, Writing for Small Businesses and Writing for the Health Professions.

The only requirement for this program is an earned bachelor’s degree, meaning that students of any major, minor, or background are eligible to take these courses after graduation.

Dr. Kathleen McEvoy, Director of the Graduate Program in Professional Writing, spoke about the new program, saying, “like the undergraduate program in Professional Writing, the graduate program was designed to complement any field of study.”

The success of the undergraduate program, including its recent expansion into a minor, was the model for the graduate program.

With W&J being a liberal arts college that already

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has such an established undergraduate professional writing program, what makes the graduate program different?

It is meant to be much more intensive, leaving students with greater writing skills upon completion of the program.

The program is generally directed toward students who are currently employed, which means that as they are learning from their courses they will be able to apply their new knowledge to their careers.

In addition to the graduate program in Professional Writing, programs for Accounting and Healthcare Economics have also been created.

W&J is looking to expand its academic offerings and continue growing into the future.

“We know that launching a graduate program is a slow and difficult process,” said Dr. McEvoy, “but we’re confident that this program has a great deal to offer the community.”

She also added, “If you go through the annual studies of the top skills that employers want in new hires, writing is always at the top.” Employers want employees who know how to communicate, and it looks like W&J will continue its reputation of placing its graduates – and now masters’ graduates – in great professions.

For more information, contact Dr. Kathleen McEvoy.

What are you looking forward to over break? " I’m super excited to spend time with my family, see all of my friends from home, and most importantly, sleep!"

- Morgan Miller (Class of 2018)

"I’m just looking forward to coming back for Intersession so I can see my friends."

- Cody Streussnig (Class of 2018) " I’m totes looking forward to seeing my grandparents and being able to sleep longer than 2 hours a night."

- John Becker (Class of 2018) "I’m really looking forward to being able to sleep on a regular basis."

- Dalton Main (Class of 2016) "I am super excited to see my family, friends, but especially my dog. I can’t wait to spend time with all of them."

- Brittany Graft (Class of 2018)

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Student Spotlight: Abby Pipcho (Class of 2018) Jordan Toohey Red&Black Staff

Abby Pipcho (Class of 2018) from Clarks Summit, PA (Abington Heights High School) chose to come to W&J because she wanted to be able to form a close, personal relationship with her professors, while enjoying the small class sizes and individual attention.

So far, Pipcho has been able to take advantage of all the opportunities that she was hoping to receive from W&J. She is currently a Psychology major with a minor in Spanish and Biology as she aspires to join the army and work as a physician assistant.

“At this school, students are given many opportunities to get involved in the campus and in the community while holding important leadership positions. It’s great practice for the real world,” said Pipcho. In

just a year and a half into college, Pipcho has already gotten involved with many leadership roles throughout campus, as she is the Vice President of Event Planning for Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women along with being involved in the Pre-Health Society and being the Membership Chair in the Washington Fellows Program.

During the summer of 2015, she was given the opportunity to study health care in Ireland as part of the Magellan program offered at the school.

“This experience allowed me to grow both personally and intellectually as I shadowed Irish doctors and spoke with citizens of the country about their health care system,” noted Pipcho.

Along with this abroad experience, she has also had the opportunity to travel to Mexico, the Dominican Re-

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Courtesy Abby Pipcho

Abby Pipcho completed a Magellan Project in Ireland this past summer. While in Ireland, Pipcho studied the health care system.

public, Puerto Rico, Aruba, England, Scotland and Wales.

Other than enjoying traveling across the world, Pipcho has been dancing ballet, pointe, tap, jazz and lyrical since she was three years old. Through her dancing experience, she has held multiple lead roles including one time dancing as Peter Pan. Along with dancing

PAWS for a Study Break is Back for Finals Get ready for the puppies! PAWS for a Study Break returns to U. Grant Miller Library's Walker Room on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Spending time with animals is a proven stress-reliever, so take a break from studying and come hang out with volunteers from Pittsburgh's Therapy Dogs International chapter.

This popular event typically draws close to 200 students, so come early to guarantee some quality canine time.

on her own, she also enjoyed helping younger kids learn to dance and helping them enjoy dancing as much as she has her entire life.

She also enjoys volunteering her time with the Habitat for Humanity program where she has spent some of the past three summers in Franklin, WV. She is also incredibly self-

motivated as seen through her dedication to learning almost the entirety of American Sign Language.

Her passions have cultivated a mind that embody the value of a liberal arts education and how capitalizing on such will take students farther than they could ever imagine.

Courtesy Amy Welch

Above, Moxie, a regular PAWS for a Study Break visitor and crowd-favorite.

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Holiday Fun on Campus Red & Black

Courtesy Brittany Graft

THIS WEEKEND'S EVENTS 11 D ecember 2015

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Friday • Free Bowling with W&J ID – 1-3 p.m. at Alpine Lanes • Rebecca Wilkes Honors Seminar – 1:30 p.m. at Dieter-Porter 100 • Frisbee Friday – 5 p.m. at Tech Center Lawn • Deadline to Submit Shuttle Service Requests – 5 p.m.

• SAIL Movies: "Elf ” – 6 p.m. at Media Room • Pittsburgh Pipeline (departs 6:30, 8:30, & 10:30) at Campus Ctr. Circle • Monticello's – 9 p.m. at Hub LL Saturday • Pittsburgh Pipeline (departs 11:00, 1:00, & 3:00) at Campus Ctr. Circle • PAWS for a Study Break – 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at U. Grant Miller Library • SAIL Movies: "A Christmas Story" – 6 p.m. at Media Room • Pittsburgh Pipeline (departs 6:30, 8:30, & 10:30) at Campus Ctr. Circle • Late Night Breakfast – 10-11:30 p.m. at the Commons Sunday • PAWS for a Study Break – 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at U. Grant Miller Library • SAIL Movies: "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" – 12 p.m. at Media Room • DIY: Essential Oil Rollerballs – 2-5 p.m. at G&Ts • "An Olde Fashioned New England Christmas" – 3 p.m. at Olin Fine Arts Center • Mass – 7 p.m. at Newman Center • Snacks in the Library – 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. at U. Grant Miller Library

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE R&B STAFF!

EXTENDED LIBRARY HOURS FOR FINALS Saturday, Dec. 12: 9 am to 9 pm Sunday, Dec. 13: 11 am to 3 am Monday, Dec. 14: 7 am to 3 am Tuesday, Dec. 15: 7 am to 3 am Friday, Dec. 18: 8 am to midnight

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Is the American Dream Dead?

Christopher Frydryck Red&Black Staff Is the American dream dead?

A dream is merely a currently unattainable goal in the present that we as a society use as a coping mechanism with mediocrity.

Every year, more and more entrepreneurs, Nobel Peace Prize scholars, mothers and college graduates rise to the challenge of success and strive for the “American dream.”

But what is it? The American dream is necessary hard to define, and may be interpreted in many ways.

One of the most common interpretations is that the American dream is the civil liberty to pursue goals, open opportunities and maintain freedom of choice.

However, it seems that more and more Millennials disagree with previous generations on the existence of the American dream.

A poll taken in 1986 of the American dream had been resurrected in 2015

asking participants between the ages of 18 and 34, “Do you personally feel that The American Dream is very much alive today, somewhat alive, or not really alive?”

Since 1986, the average of all demographics combined had well-over doubled in their disbelief of the American dream (12 percent in 1986 and 29 percent in 2015).

However, it seems that the spike in disbelief is not age or racially connected, but socioeconomically connected.

Robert Putnam, a Harvard political scientist had talked about this phenomenon and why it seems that newer generations are showing disbelief in the American dream. He uses an example of reading, and a spike between the upper 33 percent of the socioeconomic scale versus the lower 33 percent.

The upper 33 percent is continuing reading to their children and encouraging personal thought, while the lower 33 percent is lacking in these skills and not taking advantage of their resources.

So as the opportunist upperclass society approaches the world head on, the pessimistic lower 33 percent is arguing about their role in society instead of taking open opportunities.

As time progresses, this gap will only get larger and larger unless either the upperclass becomes too lazy (which is highly unlikely) or the lower class will rise to the challenge of their dreams.

On the contrary, “The Atlantic” had posted an article on the American Dream, and instead of arguing if the dream is alive, they had asked, “What are everyday American’s definition of ‘the dream.’”

Many people of different backgrounds, races, ages and locations had answered what they believed to be the “American dream,” and they were interesting.

Jose Villa, a citizen of New Mexico had exclaimed, “[The American dream is] to live a successful life on your terms, to be accepted by others on your terms, and to accept others on their terms.” Many

Courtesy ohscurrent.org

others had exclaimed topics of the following: receiving an education, equality, a better life (for themselves and/or their children) and safety.

All of which had varied greatly from younger children’s ambitions of “the NBA, NFL or hip-hop [star].”

Has the American dream died? As time continues, Millennial’s and future generations tend to be entitled to free hand-outs and hold a stigma of dreamers, but not doers.

The American dream requires a personal definition

within oneself to decide what to do with the freedom granted by the government.

Some may see it as a freedom to assemble a family, while others may see the dream as a way to reach wealth or substantial fame.

The recent disbelief in our generation’s dreams shows the lazy, pessimistic attitude sadly giving the generation a bad reputation.

The proper question to ask is not “is the American dream dead,” it should be, “how has the American dream changed.”

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High Quality Education Comes with High Cost

Courtesy yourdailyshakespeare.com

Leah Segal Red&Black Staff As a fellow college student, I can attest to the pain of the college application process.

The stress of finding the right school is a daunting task, and the cost of attending college is a heart attack in the making.

And for millions of high school students, cost is the barrier for their chance to attend an institution of higher education.

That being said, the college enrollment rates dropped three percentage points between 2008 and 2013, from 69 percent to 66 percent.

Although three percent seems like a negligible number, it represents the possi-

bility of larger epidemic. If the trend continues, college enrollment will continue to drop, causing both colleges and the economy to suffer.

Therefore, getting to the bottom of the enrollment de-

cost of college is even a burden to families financially well off; therefore, such a price is understandably overwhelming for a family hovering near the poverty line. The science behind the life of a poor high

afford college. “While affluent young people often think of themselves as students who might work on the side, lowincome students tend to see themselves differently: “They see themselves as workers

Realistically, the cost of college is even a burden to families well off; therefore, such a price is understandably overwhelming for a family hovering near the poverty line. cline is vital. What could be behind the decline?

Terry Hartle of the American Council on Education, stated “that the trend could be due to fast-rising sticker prices at many colleges that lead low-income students to deem higher education unaffordable.” Realistically, the

school student also points to the decline.

Anthony Carnevale, a research professor who directs the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce stated the importance of the mindset of a student in financial need compared to one who can better

who are going to school,” Carnevale said. “So going to school is about getting a better job.”

And in that respect, students unable to pay off insurmountable college loans jump right into the workforce to make profit right away. However, the problem with this

idea rests in the inability to climb the corporate ladder.

Without a college education, jobs choices are very limited; therefore, the importance of scholarships and academic awards are invaluable, as they increase the chance of a poorer student’s ability to attend a university.

Overall, steps must be taken to ensure college enrollment does not further decline.

“Stronger counseling could help students minimize the risk and understand the earnings-potential boost that comes with a degree”, as well as the encouragement of scholarships to defray the cost all point to a society not shackled by the chains of collegiate debt and sub-par employment.

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Dictator for 2016: Elf on the Shelf Leah Segal Red&Black Staff

With the holidays right around the corner, people are not only preparing for upcoming celebrations, but also looking back at past ones.

Personally, I remember the excitement and joy associated with Christmas as a child, and could not wait to unwrap the brightly colored presents tucked under the tree.

Most notably, I can remember my parents warning me to be on my best behavior because Santa is always watching.

As threatening and creepy as that may seem, I (like other children) never worried about the repercussions of a jolly bearded man keeping tabs on my actions.

However, in the recent years, “Santa’s Little Helper”, otherwise known as the “Elf on the Shelf ”, gives new meaning to Santa’s allpowerful surveillance.

In essence, “The Elf on the Shelf ” is both a book and a doll.

The former is a soft pixie scout elf that parents are instructed to hide around the house.

The accompanying book, written in rhyme, tells a Christmas-themed story that explains how Santa Claus keeps tabs on who is naughty and who is nice. That being said, the Elf on the Shelf ’s

unmistakable “doe-eyed gaze and cherubic face” is everywhere.

Whether you have smaller siblings, or use any type of social media, you will be sure to see the elf poking out from cupboards, hiding in the Christmas tree or even taped to the ceiling fan (yes, this is happening).

Although the elf has become a“ whimsical holiday tradition” in some families, there are concerns of its encouragement of a police state.

How does a simple stuffed toy emulate a fear-inducing dictatorship you ask?

Well, at its very core of the Elf on the Shelf lends itself to rules found in a police state.

In an article by the Washington Post, they stated “[children] may not touch the doll, and they must accept that the doll watches them at all times with the purpose of reporting to Santa Claus.”

Such strict rules encourage children to become fearful of the power the doll holds, and act in a manner that ensures that they will not be “reported.”

Although many parents find the elf a charming and efficient way to ensure their children behave, digital technology professor at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Laura Pinto thinks otherwise.

In a personal statement, she stated the doll is “one development among many threatening our collective

Courtesy agrandelife.net

The Elf on the Shelf is a nationwide sensation during the Holiday season. Parents will strategically place the jolly doll in locations around the house to prove to the children that he is “alive” and watching their every move. Above, this Elf on the Shelf is taking a bath in a steaming mug of hot chocolate.

definition of privacy.” Instead of children behaving because it is the right thing to do, they behave under the fear of being watched and reported by the Elf. They have no privacy, and no way of knowing when

or where they are being watched. Overall, whether or not you agree with the doll’s large presence in holiday celebrations, it is here to stay.

Just last year, The Elf on the Shelf book sold over 6 million copies and joined the Macy’s

Thanksgiving parade last year, according to the Daily Mail.”

Children of the following generation will be aware the weight the familiar song lyrics “he sees you when you’re sleeping, he knows when you’re awake” carries.

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Easy Last Minute Gift Guide Red & Black

Courtesy mcdanielmusiccamp.com

Small Jars filled with marshmallows, hot chocolate powder, and peppermints make a cute, easy and fun Christmas present for anyone. Dress them up like snowmen, Santa Claus or Elves for added bonus points.

Shannon Adams Red&Black Editor

The semester is almost over, which means two things: 1) Finals week is quickly approaching and 2) you need to buy Christmas presents for your friends and family.

But let’s face it, we are poor college kids and cannot afford the new Xbox games or iPad for our family.

So, what is a poor kid to do? There are many articles out there right now that can get your creative juices flowing and jumpstart some great homemade Christmas gifts.

Forget all of those! This Holiday season all you need is Shannon’s Guide to Easy Holiday Gifts. 1.Everyone loves

homemade cookies. Your parents will already be making dozens and dozens of Holiday cookies for family and for their annual Christmas party.

Just snag a few, through them into a colorful plastic bag, add a ribbon or a bow, slap a nametag on and you have a thoughtful handmade gift for anyone.

2. Crochet or Knit? There are plenty of free online patterns that take little time and effort and end up adorable.

An easy one to make are crotched bows that you can attached to a clip for your hair or to your Christmas attire.

3. Coupon book for a significant other. Did you forget about your boyfriend’s or girlfriend’s gift again this year?

Fear no longer. Grab a dozen index cards that you have ly-

ing around from finals and punch a hole in the corner of each of them.

Write something on each index card for them to redeem. An example would be, Dinner date on me – your choice.

Once you have filled them all out tie them together with some ribbon. Pair with that bag of cookies from earlier and you will have a very happy significant other.

4. Mason Jars. For some reason everyone loves Mason Jars, the jars that your grandmother use to can with.

Buy a few from Michaels or another craft store. You can paint them and make a DIY vase; fill them with hot chocolate makings; stuff with small goodies to survive the winter weather such as chapstick,

hand lotion, tea, fuzzy socks, and a gift card to Starbucks.

5. Give them your favorite book. Your favorite book says a lot about you as a person.

Buy copies of your favorite book of all time and give it to people who mean something to you.

While they are reading it they will come to you to talk about what they love or hate about the book.

It will bring you closer together and give them a peek into your mind.

6. Candles. I know what you are thinking, Yankee Candles are expensive.

However, Yankee Candle is not the only company that sells candles.

You can find amazing smelling candles at dollar stores, Walmart, and craft

stores. Nothing says the Holidays like a warm burning candle.

7. A Mixed CD. This sounds so 90’s but, go to your iTunes and pick out songs that remind you of the person you are giving a gift to.

Burn them to a CD and then write an accompanying note that explains to them why you hand selected each track for them.

You will leave them in tears, trust me.

This list of ideas will help you out of any gift giving funk this Holiday season.

If nothing else, they will help you brainstorm your own ideas and will mean a lot more to the recipient.

Happy Holiday Season and a very relaxing and wellearned break!

A R T S

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Songs to Spice up the Holiday Season Tyler Phillips Red&Black staff It’s Christmas time and radio stations have once again been overtaken with Christmas music.

It’s also that time of year to sift through the memorable ones that we all look forward to hearing every year: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band – “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” – Just listen to those jingling bells with saxophonist Clarence Clemons ho-ho-ho-ing in the beginning of the song and try to tell me that you don’t feel in the Christmas mood.

For the past few years, this has always been the first song that starts the Christmas Spirit for me.

Only the Boss and the E Street Band could break it down this way with all of the jazz in Clemons’ solo and the huge ending. Trans-Siberian Orchestra – “Christmas Eve / Sarajevo” – This symphonic rock incorporates virtuosic soloing with Carol of the Bells and blows away all other renditions.

The intensity only builds as the song progresses and ends on a high note. Bing Crosby

– “White Christmas” – The song may be as old as the holiday itself, but it has clearly stood the test of time and the swirling notes at the beginning sound as if the listener is going back to Christmases long ago.

John Lennon – “Happy Christmas (War is Over)” – After the Beatles’ dissolution, John Lennon had a successful career as he explored new styles of music. Lennon didn’t miss his opportunity to protest the Vietnam War while celebrating the holiday spirit either, evident with the lyrics “So Happy Christmas / For black and for white / For yellow and red ones / Let’s stop all the fight.”

Honestly, the children chanting in this used to creep me out, but I’ve grown to love this song in the past few years.

Elvis Presley – “Blue Christmas” – A classic Christmas song here about heartbreak from being without a loved one during the holiday.

The King of Rock and Roll puts forth emotion in a calm delivery with his signature inflections on the vocals. The ending lyrics “You’ll be doin’ all right, with your Christmas of white / But I’ll have a blue,

blue Christmas” shows Elvis’s pain while his sweetheart is feeling fine.

Vince Guaraldi Trio – “Christmas Time Is Here” – A Charlie Brown Christmas is without a doubt one of the greatest Christmas specials, and it opens with this song.

Picture an ice skating rink and Snoopy sliding around when you listen to the beginning of it and think of what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

Eagles – “Please Come Home for Christmas” – A ballad similar to the last entry, Don Henley sings about his sadness similar to the last entry.

The bluely guitar solo might not match that of Hotel California, but it is definitely memorable and emotional.

Lou Monte – “Dominic the Donkey” – If you are Italian like me, Christmas is always a huge celebration.

This short song is just a nice little number to keep the fun going on Christmas Eve. Mariah Carey – “All I Want For Christmas Is You” – With a voice that spans five octaves, Carey puts it to great use here. Although she may have butchered a performance of this last Christmas at Rockefeller Center, the studio version is always a great track to listen to and get hopeful about the holidays.

Scott Weiland – “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” – The former Stone Temple Pilots singer released his Christmas album in 2011 with traditional holiday hits

Courtesy theodysseyonline.com

covered in various styles, including his take Silent Night and White Christmas with O Holy Night in Reggae style.

Sadly, Weiland just passed away before the weekend, and it is unfortunate fans will never be able to hear his talented voice in music again.

Dan Fogelberg – “Same Old Lang Syne” – Most people consider this to be a “New Year’s Song” because of its use of the traditional “Auld Lang Syne” but the song is actually about Fogelberg running into an ex-girlfriend on Christmas Eve. The song is about reflecting on the past but becomes sadder as the two ex-lovers realize what could have been and reflect on their current lives.

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25 Days of Christmas Cheer

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Poetry Corner

By Diana Ciarallo

“It’s so Rich- it’s My Life” (Inspired by an obituary found in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette about a nurse who kept a daily diary for 75 years) Kayla Marasia Red&Black Staff

As we string lights on Christmas trees, hum endless carols and bake our favorite homemade cookies, many televisions are set by default to ABC Family’s 25 Days of Christmas marathon.

The marathon, airing on multiple different networks since its inception and delighting families since 1996, shows Christmas movies as well as other popular family films, such as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.

Whether Home Alone is playing in the background while ornaments are hung or we’re watching Elf under the blankets with some hot chocolate, the countdown to the jolliest holiday of the year would not be complete without our favorite Christmas classics.

Each year, the official countdown begins on Dec. 1 and continues through Christmas Day. A few favorite titles include "Jack Frost," the lifelike "The Polar Express," "Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas," "Disney’s A Christmas Carol" and the 1964 classic "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." “My

favorite Christmas movie is Elf,” says W&J sophomore Nathan Repine. “It’s a wonderful comedy. It makes me laugh every time.” This year’s rotation of movies is perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit, ranging from nostalgic oldies to feel-good modern comedies.

Last year’s marathon brought in millions of viewers for the most popular films: "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation" and "Elf " each received over four million viewers on Christmas Eve alone.

25 Days of Christmas is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit on the weekends leading up to Christmas or even for taking a welldeserved break during finals week. “[25 Days of Christmas] gets me so excited for the holiday season,” says W&J senior Veronica Aboujaoudé. “I love the cute romantic movies.

And "The Polar Express" and "Elf " are my favorites.”

As the semester draws to a close and the long-awaited winter break arrives, be sure to wind down with some hot chocolate and your favorite holiday movies on ABC Family. Here’s the schedule for the weekend of Dec. 11 and 12!

Dec. 11 7:00 a.m. — "Desperately Seeking Santa" 9:00 a.m. — "Frosty's Winter Wonderland" 11:00 a.m. — "Holiday in Handcuffs" 1:00 p.m. — "The Family Man" 4:00 p.m. — "Fred Claus" 6:45 p.m. — "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" 9:00 p.m. — "Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas" 12:00 a.m. — "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" 1:00 a.m. — "The Year Without a Santa Claus" Dec. 12 7:00 a.m. — "Jack Frost" 8:00 a.m. — "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas" 9:45 a.m. — "Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas" 11:30 a.m. — "The Bells of Fraggle Rock" 12:15 p.m. — "Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas" 1:20 p.m. — "The Year Without a Santa Claus" 2:30 p.m. — "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" 3:30 p.m. — "Frosty's Winter Wonderland" 4:00 p.m. — "Rudolph and Frosty's Christmas in July" 6:00 p.m. — "Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas" 9:00 p.m. — "Elf " 11:15 p.m. — "Fred Claus"

“What a lark! What a plunge!”- Mrs. Dalloway, Virginia Woolf The book is opened A pen is brandished So begins the record The record of a life A change in the weather, A phone call from a friend Each a stroke of paint The portrait of a woman’s days Each mundane moment is extraordinary Even in its Walmart-bought confines As is true for every life No matter how great or meager It’s circumstances may be “Little Match Girl” Sweet little match girl Alone in the frozen storm No shoes, hole-ridden clothes Only a light to keep her warm Invisible to all the passersby We are lost in holiday cheer No one can hear this poor soul cry No one can see her sorrow, her fear Father will beat her For every match unsold So here she stays In the freezing cold Hoping for kindness From a blessed saint They are numb as the cold She feels faint A nameless match girl Frozen like ice Santa couldn’t save her Even though she was nice We could’ve saved her We just passed by Lost in our cheer We let the poor soul cry

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Harry

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Potter

Book

Indoctrinates New Generation of Fans

Courtesy amazonaws.com

Kayla Marasia Red&Black Staff

Imagine the world of Harry Potter unfurling before your eyes in a montage of colors and pictures – not in a movie, but within the glossy pages of a book.

With the Oct. 6 release of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: The Illustrated Edition, fans and newcomers alike can experience the magical wizarding universe in an entirely new way. Using J.K.

Rowling’s original writing, the book combines well-beloved characters and dialogue with the work of award-winning illustrator, Jim Kay. Kay created over 100 illustrations, presented in rich, lavish, full color.

From a sweeping mahogany Nimbus 2000 to the fluid puffs of smoke from the Hogwarts Express, Kay manages to capture all of the magic of Hogwarts on paper in a different form of art from that of Rowling.

As the wildly-successful Harry Potter films emerged almost in synchrony with the novels, audiences never had

much of a chance to devise their own interpretations of the universe that Rowling created, as the films creatively filled all gaps in imagination.

However, Kay’s new illustrations offer readers a chance to view familiar characters in a new way.

When asked about her favorite character from the series, freshman Laurel Hergenroeder said, “It’s really tough, but I’d have to say . . .

Dumbledore.”

Hergenroeder, along with many others, are excited to see beloved characters in a fresh setting. Main character portraits, such as that of

Dumbledore, were vital in Kay’s process throughout the project.

“What I like about early portrait painting,” Kay said in a recent interview with the EW, “is that you have objects in them that are representative of that person.”

He then described his thought process in creating a portrait of Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore: Kay included a dry plant that symbolized honesty, but hidden within the leaves of this plant is a praying mantis.

“It’s sort of saying, there is honesty with Dumbledore, but

with a catch,” he says, alluding cleverly to Dumbledore’s characterization in the later books in the series.

As Potterheads learn of Kay’s new release, many are adding Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: The Illustrated Edition to their Christmas lists.

“I would buy fifty if I could,” says W&J senior (and avid Harry Potter fan) Ahleighia Carter-Croom.

Available online and in stores like Barnes and Noble, Rowling and Kay’s magical new release would be the perfect stocking-stuffer for your favorite witch or wizard.

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Red & Black

From Scottish Pubs to Motorcycle Clubs

Courtesy zimbio.com

Alexander Benner Red&Black Contributer

Every year the Monroeville Convention Center plays host to the Steel City Con, one of the biggest comic book conventions in the United States.

The event encompasses over 100,000 square feet of floor space and over 750 dealer tables.

This year, the event was held from Dec. 4-6 with 21 celebrity appearances.

Notable attendees include stuntman and an actor in Robert Rodriquez’s “From Dusk to Dawn,” Sean Astin, the main character in the film “Rudy,” as well as Samwise Gamgee in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. Among these celebrities was a very popular

actor that many know and love, Tommy Flanagan.

Flanagan is widely recognized by his facial scars which he got from working as a DJ while growing up in Glascow, Scotland.

In Glascow, local gangs became notorious for their use of the “Glascow Smile” in which they would take a razor and cut a person’s mouth both ways, in order to give the appearance that the victim was always smiling.

One night, Flanagan was leaving one of the clubs he worked at when he was attacked by a group of gang members, who proceeded to beat him and gave him a Glascow Smile.

Flanagan is quoted as saying that because of these scars, he has been able to obtain more “tough-guy” roles than he would have before the attack. When he was 25 he

acted in his first production, a theatre performance of “Macbeth.”

He stayed in the theatre realm for a while before he finally gained international attention when he acted in Mel Gibson’s “Braveheart,” where he played the rebel, Morrison, whose wife was taken by British soldiers at his own wedding.

Flanagan then proceeded to act in various TV shows for the next few years.

In 2000, he was in the film “Gladiator” with Russel Crowe, playing the character of Cicero, Maximus’s most trusted, loyal servant.

In the ensuing years he had minor roles in films such as “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle,” “AVP: Alien Vs Predator,” and “Sin City.”

After “Sin City,” he once again worked on various smaller projects, until Kurt

Sutter called him and asked him to be in a new show on FX, entitled “Sons of Anarchy.”

Kurt Sutter had little money, a rag-tag group of mostly small-time actors, and a dream: to portray the love, loyalty, brutality and everyday life of a biker gang in the small town of Charming, California.

Playing the character of Chibbs, Flanagan used his Glascow accent and loyal nature to gain popularity in the gang, as well as the viewing world.

Now that the show has concluded, fans are begging for more.

Flanagan is accordingly, abiding.

He will star in two films in the next two years entitled “Winter,” a tragic love story describing Flanagan’s character Woods’ life after the death of his wife, and “Wild for the Night,” a revenge story

in which Flanagan’s character attempts to solve the murder of his sister.

He has also joined the cast of the TV show “Gotham” as “The Knife” for Season Two. Off-screen, Flanagan is a self-proclaimed hermit that lives in the “middle of nowhere” with his beloved daughter and wife.

He loves working as an actor, mostly because he never planned to act, or to even leave Scotland.

Now he’s living in the hills of Malibu, driving his custom black Harley back from the set every day and loving life.

Flanagan will continue to act in film and TV as long as people want to see him.

“I’m a spoiled so-and-so” he says as he describes how much he enjoys the fame, and can’t wait to see what the future holds.

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'Spotlight' Sheds Light on the Unholy Diana Ciarallo Red&Black staff

“If it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a village to abuse one.”

Today, most are aware of the fact that the psychiatric disorder of pedophilia can affect members of the priesthood and that a phenomenon has been described that suggests the disorder may occur at a higher rate among priests than the general population.

Before the year 2001, such a thing as priests using the collar to prey upon children was unheard of.

Priests were considered among the least likely members of society to hurt another person, let alone a child. No one discussed the possibility of it.

The film “Spotlight” starring Pittsburgh’s Michael Keaton recounts the real-life events that not only shed light on the problem of pedophilia in the priesthood, but exposed the fact that the Roman Catholic Church was aware of the phenomenon of pedophile priests for many years.

The film describes how the church “quieted” victims with “off the record” payments and moved predatory priests from parish to parish in an attempt

to avoid damaging the reputation of the church. By misguidedly trying to cover the problem up, the church created more victims.

Thus begins the story of “Spotlight,” a small investigative unit for the Boston Globe which, in the midst of investigating the indiscretions of a single priest, winds up discovering that there are at least 90 priests in Boston who have all been found guilty of child molestation.

However, they have all managed to evade punishment due to the Church’s special position of respect in our society and subsequently, it’s remarkable ability to silence all those involved.

When the heinous events that occur in “Spotlight” are taken into account, however, it becomes very clear that the abuse of a child can take more than just a village.

It can take an institution.

It can take the Vatican itself.

Many people at all levels of society were involved in the cover-up.

The question to ask is why?

Why would a bishop who was aware of the large scope of the problem, before anyone else recognized it, make the decision to hide it and perpetuate it?

Why would the same bishop not only be allowed to escape prosecution when his guilt is apparent but then be

Courtesy kpbs.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com

"Spotlight" highlights the psychiatric disorder of pedophilia in priests. It is currently in theaters.

promoted to one of the highest positions in the church?

Why would such an epidemic as the abuse of children be allowed to grow and continue?

These are some of the many questions raised by “Spotlight.” Rather than just exploring the scandal, and the pain of the victims, this film also examines the challenges and ethics that go into the profession of journalism and just how much of an impact jour-

nalists can have on our society and the good they can do. “We need to show them that they can’t get away with this.”

The events described in “Spotlight” ironically occur at the same time as the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States, attacks perpetrated by those opposed to our American freedoms . . . like freedom of the press. In light of another tragic event when people needed the strength of the

church more than ever, these four Boston Globe reporters- Walter “Robby” Robinson (Michael Keaton), Sacha Pfeiffer (Rachel McAdams), Michael Reynolds (Mark Ruffalo) and Matt Carroll (Brian d’Arcy) find themselves struggling with their own faith as they demonstrate that although the American press system may be painful and slower than we would like, it works.

11 D ecember 2015 As for Android users, the Moto 360 is most likely the best...

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OPINIONS

Happy Holidays from the Red&Black Staff!

This semester the Red&Black published 12 issues of the newspaper, including the first-ever Freshmen Gateway edition published in late August for the incoming freshmen. The writers for the newspaper wrote about such diverse topics as the new James David Ross Family Recreation Center, a possible cure for cancer, the best music to listen to while studying, the science versus religion debate and the women’s field hockey team’s winning streak. As the semester is now drawing to a close and finals are rapidly approaching, the Red&Black has published its last issue of the semester.

A lot of changes have been made to the newspaper this semester.

The front cover got a new look, redandblackonline.com went live and the Red&Black said goodbye to the satirical “Superburger” section of the newspaper. The staff here are excited to build off of these changes in the spring semester when everyone returns to classes as they work to move the student newspaper towards a more modern and professional source of news for the W&J community.

That being said, we here at the Red&Black would like to say we hope that everyone had a good semester and good luck on finals. Thank you again for supporting the newspaper and we look forward to seeing you all again in February!

College or its students, faculty, or administration.

The Red & Black welcomes all reader contributions, but reserves the right to reject letters of pure promotional nature, as well as letters which do not meet its standard of integrity, accuracy and decency.

The Red & Black also reserves the right to edit submissions.

The overall atmosphere of Black Friday has always been...

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Marko Rubio For President Christian Cheklak Red&Black Contributor

While it is still early in the 2016 Presidential Primary Election, it is clear that Marco Rubio is certainly the strongest candidate in the field.

As the son of Cuban immigrants, Rubio knows firsthand the unique opportunities that America offers when compared to other parts of the world.

Rubio, like many Americans, is very concerned about the direction that our country is headed, and he is determined to strengthen the American Dream to ensure that all Americans have the same opportunities his parents had to build a better life.

Rubio’s humble upbringing provided him with the same perspective of Americans

E ditorial P olicy The Red & Black is the official, registered student-produced newspaper of Washington & Jefferson College. It is published Fridays with the exception of exams and break periods.

Editorials are based upon the opinion of the respective writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper, the

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Red & Black

Letters are due on the Monday before publication and may not exceed 600 words. All letters must include the author’s name, campus box and telephone number.

Names may be withheld upon request under certain conditions on rare occasions. All letters may be submitted to redandblackstaff@jay. washjeff.edu.

working paycheck-topaycheck. Additionally, as someone who has worked hard to pay off his student loans, Rubio understands the challenges of the skyrocketing costs of higher education in this country.

He is a candidate that Americans of all socioeconomic classes can relate to.

It also is evident based on each of the GOP presidential debates that Rubio is wellversed, articulate, and clearly knowledgeable of the most important policy issues facing our nation.

Moreover, he has shown that he is above getting involved in the back-andforth petty personal attacks that frustrates many voters.

Rubio’s vision for the future and infectious

optimism, backed with his sound policy proposals, are what America needs to resolve pressing foreign policy issues and strengthen the domestic economy with greater opportunities for all Americans.

Rubio does not believe that America owes him anything -- he believes that he owes a debt to America for the opportunities that this country has given to him and his family.

This is why I believe Rubio is the strongest presidential candidate from either party and would be the best candidate to serve as the 45th President of The United States.

I urge you to consider supporting Marco Rubio for President to ensure that this century becomes a New American Century.

C ontac t Telephone: FAX: E-mail: Mailing Address:

(724) 223-6049 (724) 503-1049 redandblackstaff@jay. washjeff.edu Red & Black 60 S. Lincoln St. Washington, PA 15301

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11 D ecember 2015

Ideal Holiday Gifts for the Techie in Your Life Admit it, someone in your immediate family has a beloved connection between electronic devices (maybe it is you), and needs a last minute gift this holiday season.

Although Black Friday has passed, deals are still floating around waiting to be picked up. So here is a list of some of the best technology gifts this holiday season.

No list this holiday season is complete without wearables making the list. The most recent popular release by Apple was the Apple Watch, and - although I had scolded the watch in a previous review - people just tend to flock towards Apple products.

Undoubtedly the watch is well built and has the wellknown flawless user interface that is lacking any major glitches. Although it has its flaws, like any other firstgeneration product, the Apple watch is the way to any techie’s heart who follows the footsteps of Tim Cook.

As for Android users, the Moto 360 is most likely the best entrance to the wearable tech watch world, and has the beautiful circular face with many sleek bands to adorn those lazy days at home, or those classy nights out.

As for the price, the Apple Watch starts at $350, while the Moto 360 is fetching

around the $200 price point.

For the bookworm of the family, save the stress and added weight of all those books and take advantage of Amazon’s Fire 7” tablet.

Quite possibly one of the most price conscious decisions on this list, the Fire boasts a 7” screen with a quad-core processor clocking in at 1.3 GHz and 8GB of internal storage (128GB can be added with a micro SD card). Especially with student discounts on Amazon Prime, the tablet takes advantage of music streaming, video, apps, games and, of course, books.

All of this for only $50 on Amazon. Engaged, "For $50, it's simply the best value tablet you can buy right now,” and it is hard to really disagree.

Know someone who loses their car keys, phone or wallet on a daily occurrence?

Fix that with a new technological lifesaver called, “tile.”

Tile is an app that connects to a key chain like device that connects through Bluetooth to a mobile device.

It can track the location, make a noise and even be registered as “lost” so that the community can help find what was misplaced.

It is a small plastic square that can be virtually attached to anything, and is well worth the $25/tile (on

Courtesy staples.com

sale in bulk). The recent startup seems to take pride in their battery-free technology and boast, “No batteries, no charging, no anything.”

No wonder America’s pastime is photography, it is so easily accessible to snap a photo and post it online for everyone to like or favorite.

However, there seem to be two types of photographers out there: the active on the go photographers and the professional meticulous photographer. So I will cover both.

For the inner daredevil, fear no more. The GoPro Hero on Amazon starts at

$120, and this is quite the bargain. Whether you want to film yourself scuba diving or sky diving, the Hero is the answer to your prayers.

It is easily the most versatile GoPro on the market for its price and can be interchanged in different mounts, straps, you name it.

For the meticulous Ansel Adams out there, The Nikon D3200 bundle on Amazon for $396 will give you the best entry and bang for your buck in the DSLR market boasting a 24MP crop sensor with remarkable pictures at 6000 x 4000 and a proper image

with low noise at a high ISO. It is just icing on the cake to receive two lenses with the Nikon (an 18-55mm and 55-200mm), as well as a free bag to carry your new camera to any desired location.

Whether this holiday season is filled with joy, cheer or technology, just know there are still some great deals other there for the everyday tech junkie.

Do not fret about Black Friday deals ending and all the sales dying off, because there are always good deals on technology. Happy holidays, and tech on!

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Red & Black

We Have Not Seen the Last of Mayor Brenda Davis Jack Myint Red&Black Staff

Mayor Brenda Davis took office as Mayor of the City of Washington in 2011. A member of the Democratic Party, Davis came to office with the promise to impact change and bring development – reduce crime and increase economic growth – through hard work and bi-partisanship in what she describes as a fledgling Washington.

After 4 years in office, she believes she has left Washington in a better state then when she first started.

Her successor, Republican Scott Putnam, will take office next year.

During my interview with Mayor Davis, she outlined her job responsibility in three components. As head of the Washington Department of Public Affairs, Mayor Davis is responsible for overseeing the Police Department, the city Parking Authority and the Department of Public Safety. In the Washington Police Department, the Police Chief directly reports to the mayor on a daily basis and the mayor has final say in all administrative decisions.

With regards to the Parking Authority, which is responsible for managing parking and related traffic management programs on the streets of Washington, Mayor Davis works closely with the City Council (an elected panel of 4 Councilmen) to implement policies and

regulations. The Department of Public Safety is responsible for all of the city’s traffic signals, street signs, stop signs, etc. and the mayor and her staff also works closely with the Council in ensuring all daily operations run smoothly.

In addition, the mayor constantly liaise with County, State and Federal government officials on a wide array of projects as needed, which Davis describes as the most integral part of her job.

During her tenure as Mayor of Washington, Davis is most proud of the following accomplishments: refinancing the city’s debt, revitalization of the Washington downtown business district, partnering with the Farmers’ Market, bringing the K-9 unit back to the Police Department and consolidating the public transportation system – County and City level – as one under the Washington City Transit.

Her vision for Washington is and has been to see a drastic drop in crime and drug use, see Main Street business flourish and “making little Washington the closeknit family atmosphere that it is destined to be”.

As with every other government office, elected or appointed, the Mayor’s office see challenges on a daily basis that deter Davis from effectively implementing that vision.

The biggest challenge she described was, “petty politics” – which she says is based on personal grudges

Courtesy Jack Myint

Above, Jack Myint with Mayor Brenda Davis.

and egos of some elected officials. As opposed to interest group politics or ideological differences, this sort of disagreement is not based on anything substantial or credible, and does no good for any constituency base. However, because of lack of public engagement in city politics, many elected officials are able to get away with such behavior. Mayor

Davis strikes me as someone who rises above such kind of politics and cares more about the issues and people impacted by these issues than about the seat of the office.

Her passion in the criminal justice system, evident since her undergraduate days at Waynesburg University, brought her to the City Council and her righteous (at times, ferocious) means

of properly tackling that job led her to the Mayor’s office.

While she may have lost re-election, we have not seen the last of Davis. She has expressed interest in running for a County or State position and presumably, a higher office at a later point in time.

I have every faith that she will persevere in whatever endeavors that lie ahead and wish her my best of luck.

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11 D ecember 2015

Stores Opening Earlier On Black Friday Creates Less Intensity

Courtesy frontporchdenver.com

Since stores have begun to open its doors earlier for Black Friday, throngs of people pushing and fighting to get all of the deals have become, for the most part, a thing of the past.

Jordan Toohey Red&Black Staff

Despite the hours of Black Friday shopping extending into the early afternoon hours of Thanksgiving Day, over the years it has become less intense.

Many stores have started to extend their Black Friday sales, some even have prejumped start times earlier

in the month, both in the stores and online. Due to this extension in the time period of the sales, people are now able to spread out their shopping without ridiculously running around trying to hit all the stores that they need in just a short amount of time.

Black Friday, along with Cyber Monday, are the two biggest shopping days of the year as people try to find as many deals as possible to meet all their Christmas shopping needs and to get

the best bang for their dollars.

In order to achieve greater customer satisfaction, this year stores opened their doors at noon on Thanksgiving Day to increase their profit sales.

In the past, throngs of people would flock to the malls and stores at midnight and camp outside various stores forming long lines, just to be the first to take advantage of the sales the minute that the stores opened for business.

People would come prepared with blankets,

chairs, pillows and snacks to see the night through.

Intensity building as the morning hours approach with anticipation, many people get prepared for the rush as soon as the doors open.

Sometimes as shoppers finally get inside, fights would ensue within the stores just because people try to get everything before the stores run out of stock and aren’t afraid to take things from other people in the process to get what they want. With

this free for all attitude, one has to be prepared to be strong and hold their ground.

Sometimes coming down to the decision is it really worth it to take these extreme measures.

The overall atmosphere of Black Friday has always been extremely intense, so with the stores extending their hours the intenseness has declined because not everyone is going to be in the stores at the same time.

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Student Athlete Spotlight: Brian Graytok

Jordan Toohey Red&Black Staff

Brian Graytok, a sophomore basketball player from Latrobe, Pennsylvania, recently transferred to W&J this fall from Juniata College.

His future plans include becoming an Optometrist. He started his high school career playing at Latrobe High School and then transferred to Greenburg Central Catholic High School (GCC).

At GCC, he was a three year starter and two year captain. In his four years, he scored 1,408 points.

In his junior and senior year, he made the All-Section and All-WPIAL teams, and also was a Trib “Terrific Ten”

selection. Senior Year he made second Team All-State and in his junior year was awarded Pittsburgh-Post Gazette-East Player of the Year.

Also during his junior year, he set a school record for most points in a single game with 44 points.

His team’s most amazing accomplishment was in his senior year, where they made it all the way to the WPIAL Finals, and the PIAA State final four.

Starting off his college career at Juniata, he quickly realized that it was not a comfortable fit for him.

It was a lot farther away from home and basketball wasn’t all that he thought it would be.

“When I knew I wanted to transfer, I began to search

for small schools with good pre-health and basketball programs. I found a good option in W&J. In addition, when I visited W&J, I felt like it was somewhere I belonged,” said Graytok. “W&J is a small school, where everyone knows everyone, and I liked that about the school.

The fact that the pre-health program here is so strong was huge, as I knew W&J would greatly benefit me when it came time to apply for Optometry School.

Lastly, from a basketball standpoint, I knew the returning team was young and that there would be lots of opportunity to play coming in.

Also, the effort the coaching staff put into recruiting me really made me feel like they

wanted me to be a part of their program.”

Due to the fact that he was a high school transfer, he knew that good things would come from transferring and taking the risk would be successful in the end.

Graytok has been playing basketball for as long as he can remember, and couldn’t imagine his life without it.

“I knew I wanted to play in college because I realized how blessed I was for the opportunity. There are thousands of kids who wish they could play in college and don’t get the chance. I also, have to give a lot of credit to my dad,” said Graytok.

“During spring break last year we were sitting on the beach in Fort Lauderdale and he told me he thought I should

Courtesy gopresidents.com

come back to the game. He said that I had a talent that I was wasting. He said he knew I still loved the game, and that he thought I’d regret not having gave it a try in college.

This really hit me, I began to explore opportunities, and W&J came calling.”

And just like he thought, the experience has payed off.

“Basketball is so much more than a game to me. I don’t think I really understood how much it meant to me until I was without it,” said Graytok.

So far the transfer has paid dividends for this sophomore guard, as he has started every game so far for the Presidents, averaging 14.1 points per game, a field goal percentage of .46, 4.9 rebounds per game, 3.1 assists per game, 2.1 steals per game, and 0.3 blocks per game.

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11 December 2015

Ways to Stay Healthy during Finals Week Siddhanta Bista Red&Black editor

After months of hard work and dedication, the accomplishments achieved so far can be hindered by one single assessment: finals! This can be more strenuous as it all comes down to a single week of exams. There is no one way to approach the final week of exams and the week’s stress typically causes many students’ autoimmune systems to weaken. However, following the guidelines below can ease the pressure and stress that all students face. Here are some tips that could be quite useful during the finals week.

1.Verify the scheduling of the exam: Exams are normally scheduled at hours beyond the typical class time meetings.

It is extremely essential that you know when and where to take your final exam. Arriving at the location of the final 15 minutes prior to the time is also another thing to consider.

2. Sleep! Yes, sleeping does help. Staying up late at night and trying to cram as much information can be exhausting, and will lead to a poor performance on the cumulative final exam. Fatigued brains do not retain information, nor do they recall what you read.

Sleeping is crucial to success on these exams.

3. Follow Effective study habits: Make a schedule for yourself or perhaps even a to-do

list. Plan exactly when you are going to study for each exam.

Include sessions where you can review in groups. Don’t cram all the information; plan out when you will study exactly what material.

4. Eat well: For a little energy boost, try healthy snacks: • Fresh fruits like bananas, apples or berries • Yogurt with granola • Low-fat cheeses • Almonds and walnuts • Hummus and red peppers • Half of a sandwich • Popcorn 5. Silence your social media It is not realistically possible to completely shut off any means of contact for an entire week. However, take time to be away from distractions, and spend time reviewing class materials.

6. Take Breaks: Continuously studying for hours will not help you get the results you want.

Take breaks so that you can refresh yourself before studying again. It can be overwhelming when you try studying all the material at once.

7. Think positively: The most important thing that will help you get through finals is staying positive. The moment you lose track, and give up is what will result in a poor performance. Be optimistic, and remember that the week after finals is Winter Break! Best of Luck with Finals and Happy Holidays.

Courtesy library.arizona.edu