Technique Friday, February 17, 2012• Volume 97, Issue 24 • nique.net
The South’s Liveliest College Newspaper
A night at the ballet
Twyla Tharp’s The Princess and the Goblin provides fun for everyone.415
Police arrest X-Degree searches for identity repeat offenders As the Strategic Plan’s most ambitious initiative seeks a name, lessons learned from changes to LCC and MGT may provide guidance.
Illustration by Brittany Miles
By Lauren Brett Contributing Writer
As the X-Degree Committee hammers out the various details of the designyour-own-degree program, the problem of what to call it has proven unanswerable. “It’s a unique program, and we want to give it a unique name,” said Richard Barke, committee chair and professor of Public Policy. The X-Degree, originally called the X-College, was proposed during the 2009 Strategic Planning Process. The program is meant to be experimental, providing a place for students and faculty to test new ways of teaching traditional subjects. The program will seek students who are risk takers and problem solvers. Before the degree takes its first participants, however, it must have a name. The committee has considered calling the degree “Interdisciplinary Studies” or “Transdiciplinary Studies,”
but the implications of those titles caused concern among some committee members. “They sound more like remedial degrees,” said Amit Khanduri, SGA Vice President for Academic Affairs. The challenge, Barke explained, is “finding a name for [a program] with nontraditional set of characteristics as well as nontraditional students.” The Committee is putting so much thought into the name because it is the public face of the program. The name of the degree will be at the top of graduates’ resumes, and it will provide recruiters and graduate programs with their first impressions of candidates. The X-Degree is not the only program at Tech to face this challenge. Last year, the College of Management completed the process of changing their Bachelor of Science in Management to a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. The College made the
switch after talking to reIf catering to recruiters cruiters. were the X-Degree CommitThe change “makes stu- tee’s only consideration, then dents more marketable,” it could assign many names said Chuck Parsons, Associ- to X-Degree graduates. Parate Dean for Undergradaute ticipants in the program will Programs at the College of be pursuing an 18-hour conManagement. “Many re- centration, and they could cruiters... paid no attention take the name of their degree to schools from that conwithout centration. B u s i n e s s “[The X-Degree] is For examAdministra- a unique program, ple, a student tion prowho chooses and we want to give to focus on grams.” Although it a unique name.” Public Policy, the two debut also take grees are esclasses in Richard Barke sentially the Civil Engisame thing, neering and it is the name that first catch- Economics could receive a es a potential employer’s eye. B.S. of Public Policy with a “Times have changed. concentration in Civil EnManagement degrees are not gineering and Economics. as popular, and students are Such a scheme would require finding it harder to make full support from nearly evconnections with recruiters,” ery degree-granting school at Parsons said. Tech. The College hopes that But Khanduri finds such the change will make their a solution unsatisfying. graduates stand out and give “We’ve talked about bethem the best chance of beSee X-Degree, page 6 ing hired.
By Jordan Lockwood Staff Writer
Police recently arrested two suspects who had been previously convicted of crimes on Tech’s campus. Both arrests came as a result of tips given to officers by students. The first arrest occured on Friday, Feb. 3, when a Tech police officer responded to student report of a suspicious person. The officer identified the suspect as Tony Jackson, who had been released from prison four Photo courtesy of GTPD days prior for thefts commit- Tony Jackson was arrested ted at Tech. Jack- on campus on Feb. 3. son was found with a stolen laptop and was then arrested. The second arrest occurred on Sunday, Feb 5. Four students reported stolen items from an unattended room in the Student Center. Police were able to locate the suspect, who was identified as Shawn Harris, by using a stolen phone’s GPS. Police arrested Harris after a short chase. The police department attributes these arrests in large part to its recent “See Something? Say Something” campaign aimed at increasing student awareness in the efforts to reduce spiking campus crime. “We want the entire community to know that the campaign truly works and to continue to always be aware of their surroundings,” said Alex Gutierrez, Crime Prevention Officer for the Tech Police Department. Police say that the campaign has the potential to identify repeat offenders, as they are statistically more likely to be reported by students See Repeat, page 5
Campus shows off creativity at Art Crawl, TechArts By Kyle Bulkley Contributing Writer
Photo by Josh Sandler / Student Publications
Hank Williams plays cello at the Clough Art Crawl. The Art Crawl featured visual pieces and individual performances.
The Institute, normally known for its graduates’ skills in math, science, and engineering, bucked those expectations this week through a series of events showcasing the creativity that resides on campus. The Clough Commons Art Crawl and the TechArts festival combined to display a new side of the normally quantitative campus. The Clough Commons Art Crawl held on Friday, Feb. 10, showcased the talent of individual student artists. Sections of the Clough Commons were turned into galleries meant for the display of student art. The event featured 160 student submissions including paintings, photographs, sculptures. “The Art Crawl is a response to an ongoing buzz from students wanting a creative outlet,” said Jennifer
Upton, Marketing Events Manager for the Clough Commons. “This is the first step towards a more artistic Tech community.” In addition to the visual art on display, the Art Crawl showcased instrumentalists and other performing artists. Several soloists played throughout the evening. The Art Crawl worked with Erato, Tech’s literary magazine, to provide a venue for students to read poetry and short fiction. Julia Turner, co-editor of Erato, considered the event a great success. “There are a lot of Tech students involved with art and not a lot of places for them to express that,” said Turner. “People like to say, ‘You do math and science; you can’t be into art.’ That’s a false divide. I think Tech does a good job trying to bridge the gap.” Artists who participated in the Art Crawl were surprised at the
number of students who submitted art. “I wasn’t expecting to see this much diversity of work,” said Sarah Horsley, a painter and a third-year STaC major. “I’m proud of Tech and its students. I feel like we should have more exposure for our talent in the arts.” Students found the diversity and quality of art on display especially impressive considering the nature of academic life at Tech. “Since we’re not an art school, you know these pieces weren’t just made for class,” said Jenn Bateman, a fifth-year PTFE major whose photographs were on display. “It’s interesting to see what people can do in their spare time.” Some of the artists used their work as a way to escape the rigors of daily Tech life. See Art, page 6
NEWS
2 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
Technique
The South’s Liveliest College Newspaper
Founded in 1911, the Technique is the student newspaper of the Georgia Institute of Technology, and is an official publication of the Georgia Tech Board of Student Publications. The Technique publishes on Fridays weekly during the fall and spring and biweekly during the summer. A dvertising: Information and rate cards can be found online at nique.net/ads. The deadline for reserving ad space is Friday at 5 p.m. one week before publication. To place a reservation, for billing information, or for any other questions please e-mail us at ads@nique.net. You may reach us by telephone at (404) 894-2830, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Coverage R equests: Requests for coverage and tips should be submitted to the Editor-in-Chief and/or the relevant section editor. Office: 353 Ferst Dr., Room 137 Atlanta, GA 30332-0290 Telephone: (404) 894-2830 Fax: (404) 894-1650
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Follow us online: http://nique.net Twitter: @the_nique Copyright © 2011, Vijai Narayanan, Editor-in-Chief, and by the Georgia Tech Board of Student Publications. No part of this paper may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from the Editor-in-Chief or from the Board of Student Publications. The ideas expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Board of Student Publications, the students, staff, or faculty of the Georgia Institute of Technology or the University System of Georgia. First copy free—for additional copies call (404) 894-2830
From the files of the GTPD...
Campus Crime By Lauren Brett Contributing Writer Floor 9 ¾
An officer responded to a concerned person trapped in an elevator in the Sixth Street Apartments. The trapped individual had contacted her RA, who then called the GTPD. The Atlanta Fire Department arrived at 11:30 p.m. to open the elevator doors and extract its occupant. Laptop thief to jailbird
After the report of a laptop theft and a call reporting a suspicious person outside of the Architecture West building on Feb. 5, a suspect was picked up by GTPD. The suspect was found with the missing laptop in his possession. When he was checked through GCIC, it was found that he had an active warrant for his arrest. The suspect said he only stole the laptops because he had been recently released from prison and would kill himself if he went back to jail. It was advised that he be placed on suicide watch after being released to Fulton County Jail. Stone cold sober
Police noticed vehicle swerving and breaking traffic laws around 3 a.m. on Feb. 4. After pulling the vehicle over, the officer noticed the driver, later found to be a 19-year old student, had glassy, bloodshot eyes and a strong odor
of alcohol coming from inside the car. The driver said he had not had anything to drink, before explaining that he had just one beer at a fraternity house, but was fine to do any of the officer’s tests. The student struggled with each of the three tests given to him, and after a breath test, showed positive for alcohol. The student was searched, cuffed, and later transported to the Fulton County Jail. Love triangle
An officer responded to a report of intimidation and met with the complainant. The man reported that he had received threatening text messages and said he wanted to document them. The series of text messages claimed that the complainant had stolen the sender’s girlfriend and expressed the hope that the complainant would perish in an automobile fire. No charges were filed by the complainant. Ducking out
An officer responded to a vehicle accident on Bobby Dodd Way and Power Plant Drive. A truck was found crashed into a short pillar, with extensive damage to the front and under-carriage. A witness had reported that two men had exited the vehicle
prior to the officer’s arrival. Officers found two men matching the description of those who fled the scene of the accident. The positively identified those two as the same he had seen. Both men smelled strongly of alcohol, but neither would admit to driving the vehicle. Both were detained and charged with Obstruction of Officer, Leaving the Scene of an Accident and Damage to Government Property. Cab to Grady
A cab driver flagged down an officer at the intersection of Fowler St. and Fourth St. The driver said that there was a student passed out in the back of his cab. The officer attempted to wake the student, but she was unresponsive due to heavy intoxication. The officer identified the woman as a 20-year-old Tech student. The student was transported to Grady Hospital and received a Student Code of Conduct violation for underage consumption of alcohol. Honked at the wrong guy
An officer observed a vehicle traveling south on Fowler St. The vehicle stopped behind another vehicle at a stop sign. The first vehicle honked at the second for seemingly no reason. The officer turned on his siren and pulled the first vehicle over. The driver was found to have an active warrant in Dunwoody. During the arrest, a driver of another vehicle attempted to approach, against the instructions of the officer.
NEWS
Council Clippings
Breaking
This week in Student Government
E
ach Tuesday, elected members of the two houses of the Student Government Association, the Undergraduate House of Representatives (UHR) and the Graduate Student Senate (GSS), convene to consider allocation bills and discuss issues facing campus. Here is a summary of those two meetings.
By Jordan Lockwood, Staff Writer Paintball
Bill Summary Amount
Bill SOS Garden ADAPTS China Care Club Tau Beta Pi SCPC African Student Assoc. Triathlon Club Blueprint Conference Microgravity Research
GSS
UHR
$6370.01 10-14-1 35-1-1 $940 24-0-1 40-0-1 $962.50 24-1-1 24-0-4 $1112.50 25-0-0 38-0-3 $2520.99 25-0-0 PASS $3000 23-0-1 43-0-0 $5277.09 24-0-2 PASS $1269.79 25-0-0 40-1-1 $1769.51 20-0-0 43-0-0
Prior Year: $298,013.19 Capital Outlay: $742,452.88 SOS Garden
Students Organizing for Sustainability had previously submitted a bill for funding to support a garden to simulate sustainable practices. The bill was relegated to a conference committee, which voted 5-1 to amend to the House version. Graduate senators expressed displeasure towards graduate conference committee members for not supporting the Senate version of the bill. One of the senators explained that the committee had found that the complaints originally made by the Senate where unfounded. He further explained that the Senate’s proposed cuts were not merely for aesthetic items but would jeopardize the viability of the project entirely. The majority of senators were unsatisfied and failed the bill in favor of further negotiation. Due
to overwhelming support in favor of the bill in the House, the bill was ultimately passed. China Care
The China Care Club submitted a bill to fund a carnival event to raise awareness about their club on campus. The event will also help the club collect money to send to the China Care Home in Beijing which will be used to fund critical surgeries for orphaned children. “We are a relatively new club, only two years old,” said Catherine Gu, second-year BMED major. “So, we don’t have a lot of our own financial resources to fund this event.” SGA’s financial assistance, along with that of other organizations including OIE and RHA, will be used to rent or buy supplies for games and activities for the carnival.
The Paintball Club requested funding for expenses related to an upcoming tournament. Although the club had previously received funding from the SGA for practices, the tournament requires that the club purchase a specific type of paintball on the day of the event. “At a single day tournament we shoot more paint than we usually shoot in two practices,” said Stephen Fox, club president. He and his fellow club member Reid Pigott defended the necessity of the bill in the face of intense scrutiny in both the Senate and House, respectively. Legislators were concerned that the club was already receiving extensive amounts of funding without sufficient effort to offset costs on the part of club leadership. At-large Rep. Mathias Rost specifically noted that the club has recently reduced its semester dues by $100, reducing their income so substantially that they would have been able to fund this tournament otherwise. Other representatives also called to attention the fact that the club had already approached the SGA for funding in the past and would likely do so additional times throughout the semester to subsidize tournaments. Junior Reps. Mike Mosgrove and Eran Mordel pointed out that the club did not submit a budget and should not be disadvantaged for submitting piecemeal funding requests. The House ultimately postponed the bill.
sliver
technique
I have just gotten a close up view of the hottest gal ever to set foot in woody’s since i got here 4 years ago, bow-chika-wowow Never stop, Chick-Fil-A guy. Never stop. F U, stamps, I don’t have an STD, and I will not get myself tested. I think my coffee cup should leave this school with a diploma im pretty sure it did most of the work “It is not down in any map; true places never are.” “An utterly fearless man is a far more dangerous comrade than a coward.” He’s a grand, ungodly, god-like man... 2 out of 3 women’s toilets in the IC are broken. Really feeling the love, Tech. </3 I <3 Spotify. Seriously, check it out if you haven’t already. I haven’t slivered in a while. Girl in the second row in PHYS 2211, you’re beautiful. Which is why I went and talked to you after class. Binge slivering. Much easier on the kidneys than binge drinking. That’s one to grow on. ;) just saw a guy with a blowout Sliver me timbers why is it that when you google “mail”, yahoo mail is the first search result? Does anyone know what Dean Stein’s middle name is? I heard it begins with a G Thom is the best chef ever!!! Come on, must we always have like 9000 trucks outside Maulding? to the person pissed off at physics 3 guy: good lookin’ out. we have to make sure everyone knows enthusiasm for learning is unacceptable! Be mine, FIlthy Wien? I swear GT professors made a pact to give all tests and major assignments in the same week. nextbus says 3 minutes, leave dorm to wait in cold, bus arrives 9 minutes late, can’t get on because already full. bombed a test that i ACTUALLY studied for
making friday lectures more interesting
www.nique.net
Technique • February 17, 2012 • 3
Bubble the
NASA faces budget cuts President Obama’s budget for fiscal year 2013 included massive cuts to range of NASA’s programs. The proposal includes a 38.5% cut to the space agency’s most popular program, a human exploration of Mars. The proposed budget does make provisions for the James Webb Space Telescope, which is near completion, and the Curiosity rover, currently on its way to Mars.
Airport to construct waiting lots Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport opened a 160-space cellphone lot on Thursday for those picking up arriving passengers. Drivers will be required to stay with their vehicles as they wait for their passengers. The lot is located near the South terminal and will be free of charge to users. The airport plans to open up two more lots in the coming months.
”Linsanity” in New York Jeremy Lin, currently starting at point guard for the NBA’s New York Knicks, is the biggest story shaking up the sports community thus far in
2012. After being unable to secure a scholarship to play basketball in college, Lin sent out tape of him playing and was finally noticed by Harvard. After four years as Harvard’s top player, Lin entered the NBA draft in 2010 and was not selected by any teams. He was picked up as a free agent and dropped by two teams before the New York Knicks picked him up as a last minute signing. Under any other circumstances, Lin would be sitting at a fifth-string spot on the team, but due to injury was given a chance to play as a starter in the NBA. As a result, the point guard got to showcase his skills, leading the Knicks on a seven-game winning streak.
Iran raises tensions in Middle East Iran announced that it has taken the next step towards developing a working nuclear weapon on Wednesday. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad announced new advances in the country’s centrifuge technology in a television broadcast, signaling that the state can produce more enriched uranium than before, a critical component of a nuclear weapon. The announcement came under a cloud of mixed signals from top Iranian officials. Iranian state television reported that Iran had threatened to halt oil exports to six European nations, but the European Union confirmed that it had received overtures from Tehran that the Iranians wished to re-open talks regarding the future of its nuclear capabilities. Oil prices increased by $1.06 per barrel at the news.
NEWS
Repeat
from page 1
and other members of the Tech community. Repeat offenders represent a significant percentage of campus crime, according to GTPD. Gutierrez pointed to a recent example involving bicycle theft, where thefts decreased after a repeat offender was arrested. “When the repeat offender was released from jail we saw the rise of stolen bicycles [once again],” said Gutierrez. Gutierrez said that certain offenders have favorite crimes — by committing them often, they make a noticeable spike in the reports of those crimes. In this way, the police department is able to guess when a repeat offender is at large and respond accordingly. While these two arrests were made quickly, repeat offenders oftentimes require extensive investigations in order to be identified, arrested, and prosecuted. The Tech Police Department recently collaborated with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to capture another repeat offender, Curtis Henry. Blood was found at the scene of a car robbery and allowed the police coalition to incriminate Henry using forensic analysis. Other programs initiated or augmented for the campaign against campus crime include a K9 unit, a new mounted patrol, and a more mobile officer force. These initiatives are also designed to be useful in combating repeat offenses by widening the scope of direct observation and making officers more able to quickly respond to tips by the community regarding suspicious activity. The Tech Police Department has successfully closed six such investigative cases in the past six months involving repeat offenders using these methods and the help of the “See Something? Say Something” campaign.
Technique • February 17, 2012 • 5
Students teach peers through TechBurst
Photo courtesy of C21U / Youtube.com
A participant in the TechBurst competition shows viewers how to take a lamp from design to manufacturing. C21U hopes that the TechBurst program will facilitate peer-to-peer learning and helps students learn difficult concepts outside of lectures and classwork. By Sam Somani Contributing Writer
The Center for 21st Century Universities (C21U) is planning to launch a new project entitled “TechBurst,” a consolidation of student-made videos to help facilitate peer-to-peer learning for other Tech students. “A TechBurst is a single lesson from a single class in a five-, ten- or 15- minute video, in a traditional or innovative way,” said Emily Ivey, a policy analyst at C21U and coordinator of the program, “but the value of it is that you have the quality of a Tech classroom lesson in this small, modular, easily digestible format.” TechBurst is one of the first projects C21U is undertaking in its inaugural year, as the research center was founded last September. It has been advertised as a competition, with the top three winners as judged by C21U and one “People’s Choice” receiving $5000 in prizes later this spring.
“C21U views itself as an incubator for innovative ideas in higher education,” Ivey said. “The Tech Burst competition fits into that scheme because it takes your traditional lecture and breaks it apart so that it can be reformed and reused in new and innovative ways.” Some students agreed with the concept behind the TechBurst project. “Sometimes students know how to teach other students better than learning from a professor that might lecture at a level a bit ahead of your head,” said Lauren Levinson, second-year BIO major. “I’ve seen some of these videos, and a few of them are pretty funny,” said Luke Buffardi, a first-year PHYS and PSYCH double major. “It enhances the educational experience by deviating from the humdrum of a lecture hall and reinforces learned concepts in an innovative manner.” “[The creators] are Tech students who have struggled to learn
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the concept, who have worked through the logic of these kinds of videos, explaining to each other how they learned it,” Ivey said. “The student who struggles the most with mastering a concept, but finally masters it, is going to be the best at explaining it.” Although similar in essence to OpenCourseware, which generally refers to course resources such as syllabi, lecture readings, homework, exams and video lectures from other universities such as MIT, Stanford, and Yale, TechBursts will be no more than 15 minutes in length — the primary difference between videos of its kind. “If you’re struggling with derivatives, you don’t want to watch a 90-minute video to find the ten minute segment that pertains to you,” Ivey said. “So what we’ve done is we’ve taken that segment and separated it out.” So far, 23 videos have been uploaded to the C21U Youtube channel.
“In its first year, the Tech Burst videos we are seeing are really exemplifying the ways that Georgia Tech students have learned to learn and helped others learn to learn,” Ivey said. With topics ranging from gerrymandering and the transcription and translation of DNA to an introduction to circuits and designing a lamp, the videos have taken a diverse approach to conveying the instruction, such as doing physics in the shower and using an “Old Spice commercial” template. TechBursts is not just a temporary initiative, as its creators desire longevity in the project. “Ultimately what we want to see is a vast library of Tech’s academic content available to be used by everyone, both Georgia students and students outside of Tech to help with their class, as a studying tool, and to improve the educational experience by offering the Tech caliber educational content,” Ivey said.
NEWS
6 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
Photo by Josh Sandler / Student Publications
Tyler Piersol interacts with a work on display at the Clough Art Crawl, using the QR Code to pull up a famous work of art on his phone. Some of the works at the Art Crawl integrated art and technology.
Art
from page 1
“My major can be very hectic, but I always make a point of taking time off for my hobby,” said Romil Bhansali, a Supply Chain Engineering grad student who showcased five of his photographs. “It’s always worth it.” But other artists admit that it’s difficult to balance their artistic pursuits with their academic
workload at Tech. Several artists said that their pieces on display were made during high school and that they’ve had difficulty continuing their hobbies since coming to Tech. “I’d love to paint more, but I don’t have the space or resources here at Tech,” said Skyler Westlake, a first-year ID major. “The only way is to sign up for painting classes at Emory or else-
where,” Horsley said. The Institute aims to address some of those student concerns through the establishment of TechArts. One of the new initiative’s goals is to increase the number of resources available to students wanting to pursue the arts. Gil Weinberg, Director of the Tech Center for Music Technology and co-chair of the initiative, believes that increasing the role of
the arts at Tech will foster a culture of creativity and innovation among Tech students. “Our goal is to infuse art into every aspect of Tech, from research to education,” said Weinberg. “This means working with professors who are developing new technologies for art and providing a greater range of education in the arts.” TechArts, organized in its first year by the College of Architecture as a part of the 25-year strategic plan laid out in 2009, will be responsible for finding ways to develop and showcase student talent, highlighting innovative research that blends art and technology, and exposing students to worldclass artistic talents through live performances and other events. This year, Weinberg and his committe have put together three events, which they hope will be a “sneak peak” of future TechArts festivals. The Drawn Together exhibit is an interactive 3D experience that blends music, art, and technology. Participants can interact with a 3D display, which uses artificial intelligence to create visual and musical responses. The exhibit is ongoing and is open to the public in the Architecture East Building. The Guthman Musical Instrument Competition will feature new ideas in musical instrument design and see participants from across the world. The final event will be a performance by Jade Simmons at the Ferst Center featuring an improvising robotic musician.
X-Degree
from page 1
ing bold, pushing the limits and coming up with something innovative and new. Something that’s all-encompassing would be nice,” Khanduri said. Leaders in the School of Literature, Communication and Culture (LCC) understand this desire to have a name reflect its organization’s mission. They recently voted to change its name to the School of Literature, Media, and Communication. “This change will help the school communicate what we do as faculty, what we do for the Institute...and what we offer to Tech students” said Jay Telotte, Interim Chair of LMC. Telotte indicated that the change in name, which must still be approved by the Undergraduate Studies Committee and the Board of Regents, does more than just provide a communications tool. “The name also suggests part of our larger character, since we are a pointedly interdisciplinary unit, with many of our faculty having a breadth of interest that profitably crosses these disciplinary boundaries,” Telotte said. The X-Degree Committee is currently weighing all of these factors to come up with the best name possible. For now, though, they are moving on to other pursuits. “We have decided to focus on the substance of the program, and let the name emerge from that,” Barke said. Until then, “X” will have to do.
NEWS
Technique • February 17, 2012 • 7
Filmaker urges scientist to tell stories By Sam Somani Staff Writer
“I have come to bring you some shocking news – scientists do in fact descend from human beings,” said Randy Olson, onetime scientist and now filmaker, to a full LeCraw Auditorium in the College of Management on Wednesday. Olson’s two films—Flock of Dodos: The Evolution-Intelligent Design Circus and Sizzle: A Global Warming Comedy—focus on what he feels is the difficulty scientists have communicating with the general public. He screened Sizzle after his talk and held a short panel discussion on climate change. Olson believes that part of the problem lies in scientists suspicion of storytelling. “There is a fear that stories are going to take you into lying and fantasies, but there needs to be an equivalent term like information structuring – and that’s what storytelling is,” Olson said. The filmmaker suggested that scientists do not understand the power of the story and shy away from telling stories themselves. “A story is when something actually starts to happen,” Olson said. “Scientists don’t get that… the scientists will invariably ask a group of communicators to tell the story.” Olson pointed to the difference in reception between a documentary and a popular Hollywood movie to illustrate problems inherent in scientific communication to a broader audience. “A documentary you all may know as Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth, in which a man stood up and gave a Powerpoint talk on film,” Olson said. “The second [film regarding climate change] was a bigger, broader, crazier mov-
News Briefs Prof., alum join national academy Barbara Boyan, the Price Gilbert, Jr. Chair in Tissue Engineering in the College of Biomedical Engineering and William George, who graduated from Tech in 1964 with a B.S. in IE were elected to the National Academy of Engineering this week. They, along with 66 others, were honored for their contributions to their respective fields.
Police hold Safety Day
Photo by Josh Sandler / Student Publications
Randy Olson gestures during his speech on Wednesday. Olson, a former scientist who now creates films, told attendees that scientists need to tell better stories in order to connect with the public. ie called The Day After Tomorrow, a big budget action movie... Al Gore’s movie made $24 million, the big blockbuster made $180 million.” However, Olson suggested that scientific writing and storytelling are not that far apart. “The way in which [scientists] write their communications, the template used, bears a great deal of similarity to the way stories are told in the literary world,” Olson said, citing the fact that the introduction, methodology/results, and discussion parts of a scholarly work are similar to the general Act I, Act II, and Act III structure of a play. In fact, the often-forgotten components in scientific writing that may turn it into a story are
sliver
www.nique.net
i need to start taking advantage of the health services. whats the point of paying for it without using it? i love castle ive got 4 classes, in 8 different buildings I hate it when I see tall guys with short girls...#tallgir lproblems The student faculty agreement is so flawed it might as well have been written by grasshoppers No, I do not play basketball, have any modeling experience whatsoever, nor is my father Bigfoot. But, sure, I can reach that for you. 22 years with no Valentine. Maybe next year... best pick-up line ever: “I can be whoever you want me to be, honey bunny” College Student Zoidberg-- What’s this? Two meals in one week! Instead of T-Pain, let’s get Neil Degrasse Tyson next year. And instead of showing free movies at the student center, let’s show Carl Sagan’s cosmos. Correction: Leggins are NOT pants. Please cover yourself. That goes to jeggings too. They want guns on campus? When will we learn... Sliver King, stop editing my posts. What the hell was up with that desirability article last issue? ECEs are less desirable than CS majors? BS just took a piss for a minute and a half. New record. 2 years in a row where i make a move near valentines day, both times i get left empty handed. sigh... ranking majors by desirability? please, i beg of you, be a little more shallow. Cmon dude it’s Valentine’s day... ask me out already! Listening to the Bastion soundtrack and studying. I think the sliver guy likes Community. No other way all my references get posted. If the Technique is the South’s Liveliest College Newspaper, what is the North’s Deadliest College Newspaper? MIT’s? “Tech majors ranked according to desirability” was disappointingly dull.
just a few simple items. “‘And’ is this word you use when you’re in exposition mode. ‘And we did this, and we are doing this, and and and.’” Olson said. “If you string together a lot of ‘ands’, then people just start nodding off.” Instead, Olson has a solution to keeping the audience of a scientific presentation in check and wide-awake. “The most practical piece of storytelling advice ever is as simple as replacing ‘ands’ with ‘buts’ and ‘therefores’,” Olson said, referencing South Park director Trey Parker’s way of script creation. “[With the but], I have now lit up a question in your mind. That is the essence of storytelling — lighting the fire.”
A counter-intuitive programming in our brains, Olson said, also lends to another method of improving storytelling in presentations – focusing on the specifics. “The more [examples] I tell you about, the less you connect with it, and the lesser the impact it has on you,” Olson said. “One death is a tragedy, but a million deaths is nothing but a statistic and a piece of information.” Olson believes that this approach can help with presentations to any group. “Those of you involved with science — this is not stuff just for wacky presentations to a general audience,” Olson said. “All of these dynamics hold truth for your talks with the science community.”
On Feb. 10, GTPD hosted their third annual campus safety day, featuring activities such as informational booths and Segway demonstrations. Sky Cop, a mobile surveillance system and GTPD’s newest safety tool, was also demonstrated. The GTPD continues to encourage students to sign up for Jacket Guardian and to remember their educational campaign modeled after the national “Say Something, See Something” initiative.
May speaks at White House Gary May, the Dean of the College of Engineering, spoke at the White House in a ceremony stressing the need to attract students to the field of engineering earlier in their education and hold their attention until graduation as a method of improving the nation’s competitiveness. The White House’s goal is to graduate 10,000 new engineers each year by increasing through private sector incentives.
Opinions
Opinions Editor: Chris Russell A guilty conscience needs to confess. A work of art is a confession.
“ ”
OUR VIEWS Consensus Opinion
Communicating Science
Engineers, scientists must interact with laymen
In his talk this week, Randy Olson made the claim that we, as engineers and scientists, need advocates for science and technology that are able to communicate with a general public that doesn’t share our background. Policy is being made and will continue to be made without due concern for scientific interests unless advocates fighting for science in classrooms and funding for STEM programs make their voice heard. Even on an individual level, such advocacy is necessary if we are going to garner more interest in science and technology in children. However, in order for someone of a scientific mindset to advocate for science, they have to keep an important fact in mind: They are not talking to fellow scientists. The attitude of “my ideas should stand on their own” is necessary in the lab, but in the real world, presentation really does matter. No matter how valuable an idea is, if it is not presented in an understandable manner, it is worthless.
In short, a change in the culture of science and engineering students is necessary. Instead of mocking liberal arts, marketing, and communication as lesser subjects, students need to recognize that, unless they can find their ways to communicate their ideas to a nontechnical audience — be it a manager, funding board or congressional committee — it will be impossible to advance their ideas as far as they would like. One need only look at NASA’s recent budget cuts to see what happens when the general public can no longer understand your purposes and goals. On the other hand, look at the success of those who manage to successfully marry scientific knowledge with an ability to communicate. While few can list off Nobel Laureates, many can extensively quote Carl Sagan’s explanations of the universe, or recount watching Bill Nye on television as kids. At the end of the day, ideas—no matter how clever—are entirely useless unless they can be shared.
The Consensus Opinion reflects the majority opinion of the Editorial Board of the Technique, but not necessarily the opinions of individual editors.
Technique Editorial Board Vijai Narayanan, Editor-in-Chief Kamna Bohra, Managing Editor
Maddie Cook, Production Manager Mike Donohue, News Editor Will Folsom, Photography Editor Siddharth Gurnani, Focus Editor Ian Bailie, Design Editor
Nishant Prasadh, Development Editor Chris Russell, Opinions Editor Alex Sohani, Sports Editor Hank Whitson, Entertainment Editor
Robo Cop By Casey Tisdel
—Albert Camus
Technique
8
Friday, February 17, 2012
YOUR VIEWS Letters to the Editor
Firearms add only risk, not protection I have been at Tech for 9.5 years now, from undergrad through my graduate work. I have lived off campus for the past five years, and I bike to school. I have never had an issue with anyone along the my route along State Street. I am completely opposed to allowing concealed carry for students. It’s not just the people with the weapon who have to be completely responsible. It’s everyone around them. If someone who lives on campus has a weapon, then that weapon will be in their room for some amount of time. Anyone who comes by to visit would then have access to that weapon, known or unknown to the rightful owner. What would prevent someone from using a roommate to get access to it without the owner’s knowledge? Additionally, reading the police report in recent issues of the Technique, and seeing many public intoxication incidents, what’s to prevent someone at a party or social event from not being in full control of their faculties and doing something regrettable? I understand the desire to increase safety, but introducing weapons into an already stressful environment is not the answer. All it takes is one mistake, one bad apple, to create a negative environment for the students around. Even if 99 percent of the weapon carriers have no incidents, that 1 percent can still have a significant impact. We only have to look at the recent Virginia Tech incidents to see that. I don’t see any way a 100 percent guarantee can be made that everyone with a weapon is responsible 100 percent of the time. And I don’t see how having a concealed weapon all of a sudden helps everyone deal with an armed robbery where a gun is pulled on them. As such, I don’t see any significant positives that outweigh what I see to be severe negative possibilities. Chris Cordell Grad AE
Not necessarily. It depends on the individual’s compatibility, not their “rank” when it comes to choosing a date or future mate. I feel like you are putting forward a very poor image of women by writing this article. Sure, some women need men to support them because not all women go to Tech and have access to better careers, but telling them how to rank men is completely sexist. Women can earn their own high-earning careers and not rely on men to live a comfortable life. I’m asking men and the person in charge of this article to give the ladies more dignity, because they deserve to be treated with equal rank instead of how much they earn compared to men in order to rely on them for future mate. “Tech majors ranked according to desirability” is putting a poor image on women and their earning power compared to men. Such views are pushing women away from technical fields like Computer Science and Engineering because it seems more like a men’s job, and I am so sick of it! Why don’t you encourage girls and women to enter a field that earns better bread and bacon, instead of encouraging them to date certain guys? Ai Le Fourth-year CS/ECE
Article stereotypes women, students
Physical education has place at Tech
When it comes to the article “Tech Major Rank According to Desirability,” you are offending many women in these fields by posting such sexist comments as, “Women who are looking for a man with a mansion and a fast car might get lucky with someone from this major.” You are saying that the majority of women [are] looking for compatible men according to their future earnings. What about women who are in these majors? Do they receive the same respect? I am in one of the hardest and highest paying fields at Tech, and I don’t feel I deserve the same respect reading this article. Can women get any guy they want if they are in any of these majors?
It is very gratifying to see that Tech intends to restore actual physical education classes. As someone who was a student 40 years ago, when we were required to take and pass six quarters of physical training, my only question is, “What took so long?” I never understood the logic behind dropping the requirement in the first place, other than the administration at the time must have thought it was too much trouble. It is a known fact that the famous “Drownproofing” class saved numerous lives of Tech alumni later in their lives. My dream would be to see it restored to the place it was developed. Bill Brockman GMGT, 1973
Write to us:
letters@nique.net We welcome your letters in response to Technique content as well as topics relevant to campus. We will print letters on a timely and space-available basis. Letters should not exceed 400 words and should be submitted by Tuesday at 7 p.m. in order to be printed in the following Friday’s issue. Include your full name, year (1st, 2nd, etc.) and major. We reserve the right to edit for style and length. Only one submission per person will be printed per term.
OPINIONS
Technique • February 17, 2012 • 9
College degrees not necessary for all The average student debt has steadily increased every year since the 1990s—this year’s graduating class faces a staggering average of $27,000 of debt per student. Economic gurus nationwide are predicting a second financial crisis in the near future due to the burgeoning student debt. In this discussion, though, people are only talking about ways to pay off debt or avoid debt to begin with, rather than facing the real issue: Higher education is a privilege, not a right. Most students who are in college should probably not be in college (or at least not studying what they are), and most colleges should probably not exist. This is a statement that will probably invoke the ire of students and parents nationwide, but this is what I believe to be the problem. The American psyche tells us that we can do whatever we want, succeed at it, we are entitled to it. But this is the attitude that led lenders to loan money to people to buy bigger houses and cars than they could not possibly afford. The last crisis was caused by our parents— this one will be our own fault, and will probably be far worse. The last market crash left the economy in shambles, with bailouts occurring seemingly every other day. Graduates now face a weaker job market than ever before and have no means of paying off their
“Most students who are in college should probably not be... and most colleges should probably not exist.” Jonathan Peak Assistant Entertainment Editor
enormous debt, with collections starting the day you finish school. This crisis will be felt on a more personal level, as college loans have a unique caveat — they never go away. When homeowners and other borrowers defaulted on loans before, they filed for bankruptcy and the debt was resolved — causing a chain reaction with banks defaulting and the inevitable government bailout to follow. Student debt follows you, garnishing your wages until you pay it off. This causes a crisis that does not topple the government or large companies, but really causes us to suffer. The Occupy protests last year are perhaps the best example of the inane American attitude of shifting the blame from ourselves to seemingly anyone else. They protested the banks, corporate America and the “1%.” No, it’s your own fault you’re a barista at Starbucks with $15,000 of student debt and a degree in Gender Studies.
Before coming to college, I ran a simple cost-benefit of attending each college I wanted and the degrees I pursued. That’s how I ended up at Tech, studying a subject I was at the time not the least bit interested in. But this choice allows me to graduate debt-free with a degree that almost guarantees me some sort of job after I finish. I did not follow my dream of attending a small-liberal arts school majoring in linguistics — and graduating with about $50,000 of debt. But I was fortunate to be making these choices. A much harder question to face is if a person should even be attending college. You don’t need a degree to nanny those children or to wait those tables—jobs that you will inevitably get with a degree from some noname school. On the other hand, America needs, and sorely lacks, trade professionals, who can potentially make more money without a degree than I ever will. Trade schools and techni-
cal schools offer a high return and secure job placement for those willing to enter these fields. And they do not become a burden on the system, wasting their days “protesting” (aka whining); rather, they keep our infrastructure and financial institutions running for these others to pillage. It’s sad to me that one of the most common arguments I hear for going to college is not about gaining knowledge or providing for you future. Instead most write it off for the experience. My answer to that is if you’re just here to meet friends (or worse, a spouse) or “find yourself,” do it with your own money and on your own time—or rather realize you are as these financial choices have the potential to follow you for the rest of your life. While I personally do not believe in incurring debt, I fully understand that sometimes it is necessary; just make sure your degree is worth it. And if this makes you mad, I’m glad, as this is a discussion that seriously needs to be addressed in America. It also more than likely means you are one of these people and I don’t want to hear your whining on national news in five years about how you’re working a minimum wage job when you have a “good” degree from a “good” college.
IAC needs more direction in capstones Senior Capstone is a class dreaded and feared by many. For some majors, it’s a class that spans over two semesters; for others it may be more or less. Either way, it is a class that aims to cover your mastery of your major. This demonstration of understanding can be accomplished in multiple ways, and each college within the Institute has their own way of achieving this objective. The Ivan Allen College (IAC) of Liberal Arts includes capstone courses, but these courses vary greatly between each major in design. I imagine some similar variation exists among engineering majors, but I think the IAC lacks the senior design coursework and depth found in many engineering capstones. What I respect about the engineering capstone, more commonly known as Senior Design, is that from the beginning of the course, students are put into groups from the get go and immediately begin their project. From my understanding, students in these classes have a topic assigned or chosen and an overarching goal to reach for. The topic is often a problem observed or defined in a system. This problem becomes the subject of the semester as it is identified, analyzed and appropriately evaluated. Solutions are drawn up and a final presentation is put together. In many majors, the goal
to change my major, but I see some of these ideas fitting very well into the overall Tech curriculum. Tech is unique in that it ties all of its majors somehow with technology. HTS has a course that covers Culture and Maddie Cook Technology; one of INTA’s required courses is called SciProduction Manager ence, Technology and International Affairs. You can make the argument that Tech’s liba working relationship with a eral arts school is unlike many client and provide a solution to others because of its close ties to technology and engineera real-world issue. The School of Public Policy ing, so why not pull those two has been able to create a cap- closer together? By implementing or alterstone course like this, with an objective similar to an engi- ing the capstone coursework neering capstone’s objective. within the IAC, the capstone Their capstone course lays out course will be a stronger dethe rules and objectives and parting class for IAC graduthen provide a listing of spon- ates. IAC students will be able sors who have agreed to par- to construct and develop real ticipate in the project with the world issues and relations with students. Similarly, the PUBP clients. Often, IAC students students in the capstone course can be a little lost because of conduct a professional investi- the broad scope that a liberal gation of a policy issue, identi- arts education covers. If a class fy possible methodologies and or classes were to allow IAC solutions to resolve the issue, students to connect with cliand, lastly, present their find- ents who seek the help of liberal arts students, a stronger ings in a report. Something that attracts foundation will be built for many employers to Tech is that IAC students entering the realwe are trained to become prob- world. IAC students will realize lem solvers. This training can be found in any major at Tech. their potential careers paths set If an objective of Senior De- before them and overall, learn sign in an engineering course how to problem solve in the is to problem solve, why can’t most efficient way. A Senior problem solving be further Design capstone course within intertwined in the senior cap- the IAC will only make a student stronger and more prestone courses of the IAC? Maybe this means I need pared for life after graduation.
“I want to be able to create connections with the real-world while still being a student and somewhat supervised.”
is to develop a working relationship with a client and develop a project that can be implemented into their organization. Engineering students have the opportunity to work in a real-world situation with the support of the Institute and other fellow students. As a liberal arts major, I want to be able to create that connection with the real world while still being a student and somewhat supervised. Senior Design groups are conducting research that could potentially be used in the real world while still having an advisor and maybe a few TAs to critique the work. I want this opportunity in all majors in the IAC. The capstone courses in the IAC need to be more standardized. After reading the course descriptions of many capstone courses in the IAC, the objectives lack depth and are open ended. While this might be intentional, I would much rather the objective be to imitate the depth in the objectives for engineering capstones. I want to have that opportunity to create
BUZZ
Around Campus
What did you do for Valentine’s Day?
Gerin Williams Second-year BCHM
“I surprised my boyfriend after his English class with a giant card and freshly baked cookies.”
Melissa Nord Fourth-year EAS
“I watched The Vow with my boyfriend.”
Andy Yi Third-year CS
“I helped out at a homeless shelter.”
Sara Shojaee First-year BIO
“I went to the intramural basketball game with friends.” Photos by Sharad Gopal / Student Publications
OPINIONS
10 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
OUR VIEWS Hot or Not
HOT– or –NOT Arts at Tech
The Clough Commons got a bit more color this week as it hosted the Art Crawl. Students with a tendency toward rightbrained activities got a chance to showcase their work around the building atrium. The second floor’s main atrium was ringed with paintings, drawings, and sculptures, giving students something pretty to look at while heading to class or waiting at Starbucks.
Diamond days
Fans of the nation’s pasttime have reason to rejoice, as the No. 10 ranked Jackets baseball team kicks off the season on Friday Feb. 15 against Kent State. Through the weekend, they will play four games against both the Golden Eagles of Kent State and the Eagles of Winthrop. The Jackets will then have their home opener next week against Ohio State.
Tennis woes
Last year, the men’s tennis team ended a stretch of 22 years without a win over Georgia, pulling out a 4-3 comeback victory in dramatic fashion. There was no such drama this year, as UGA cruised to a 7-0 victory in Athens. The Bulldogs won all six singles matches and overcame a loss in the top doubles draw, ending Tech’s hopes of starting a more positive streak in the rivalry.
Fickle facilities
The facilities at North Ave. Apartments have been temperamental due to fluctuating weather, with the heat out in apartments over the weekend. This left many students shivering in the cold. There were also problems with the ventilation system in North Ave. North, causing some stairwells to pressurize, making their doors difficult to open.
Notice something HOT or NOT around campus? Email us at opinions@nique.net.
Relations with both government, community necessary for growth Tech is a community built on collaboration. From the crossdisciplinary research being conducted in our labs to the blended learning occurring in our classrooms, our campus derives much of its strength through the sharing of diverse ideas and cooperative approaches to work. These cooperative contributions do not just originate internally; our Institute is also strengthened through the support of external stakeholders. Tech is the institution it is today thanks to the government and community leaders on the local, state and federal levels. My colleagues and I in Government and Community Relations work daily to foster these partnerships and pursue the Institute’s priorities. We engage with surrounding neighborhoods to ensure that Tech remains a good neighbor and serves nearby communities. We work closely with leaders in the State Capitol to secure funding for teaching and facilities and policies that foster our work. We share relevant knowledge with our congressional delegation and seek support for our expanding research enterprise. However, our relatively small unit cannot be successful on its own. Our work is truly a team effort, and it involves the entire campus community. Working with the campus community has led us to a number of notable achievements in recent years. The Clough Commons is a prime example. Clough Commons reflects an investment of $60 million in state funding. These funds were secured thanks to the collaborative work of our partners across campus: students, faculty, staff and even alumni uniting behind a
“Clough Commons is just a single illustration of how we can work together to achieve great things for our Institute...” Dene Sheheane Exec. Dir., Govt. and Community Relations
common goal. The result has been an incredible facility whose value is clear. Clough Commons is just a single illustration of how we can work together to achieve great things for our Institute, and students are among our strongest advocates in these pursuits. For the third year this past January, our student leaders hosted a Tech Student Day at the State Capitol to share their stories and show appreciation for our supporters in the General Assembly. Legislators and staffers continue to approach us with kind regards for these students who visited and pledges of assistance for our campus efforts. Opportunities for students to engage as promoters of the Institute to these external stakeholders abound, particularly in regard to internships. Our office sponsors spring internships at the State Capitol and summer internship opportunities in Washington, D.C. I encourage you to connect with my office if you are interested in exploring these programs. Even after graduation, there remains an avenue for alumni to participate on our team. A number of our alumni and friends make up a group we call the Capitol Jackets that supports our outreach efforts at the State Capitol. These individuals help us share
our Tech priorities on a constituent-to-legislator plane and serve as living proof of the value of a Tech degree. This year, these advocates have been instrumental in building support for our Engineered Biosystems Building (EBB) project, which has been recommended by Governor Deal and the Board of Regents to receive $59 million in bond funds next fiscal year. As you move past graduation and connect with leaders in the community where you work and live, I hope that you will consider joining this group to not only stay up to date with campus initiatives but also help us to continue building support for your alma mater and projects like the EBB. Though we at Tech often joke about being “inside the bubble,” the Atlanta skyline is a proper reminder that our Institute is not an island. We exist as we are today thanks to the support of the numerous communities of which we are a part. As we work toward President Peterson’s strategic goal of presence on the national and international stages, these symbiotic relationships will only become more important. I am appreciative of your help as a member of our team in building these collaborations, and I hope to have your assistance in strengthening them in coming days.
sliver
www.nique.net
I’ve found the golden Sliver jeremy lin. nough said You can’t defeat Air Man! To guy looking for astrophysicist-w hat about rocket scientist/ fighte r pilot? I would take 1372 all over again to be with you... :( I’m sliver and I know it GA Tech has a basketball team?? Me: “Your argument that eating meat is bad because animals are more like us than plants is a bad argument. By that logic killing children is not as bad as killing adults.” Him: “Well, it isn’t as bad to kill children.” “Remind me to never vote “You should try walking sometime.” “Yeah, you are right. I am intrigued by this walking thing. What is it?” ~my weird roommate you’re so awesome sanGGGGGGGita. facebook, where memes go to DIE Capitalization if the difference between helping your Uncle Jack off a horse and helping your uncle jack off a horse. JEREMY LIN I should have gone to Georgia, tech sucks. Give Blood. Play Rugby. the first rule of library sex club is that is does not exist Fluids lab-lab report-prelab quiz-prelab assignment-fluid s lab-lab report-... the cycle never ends :( going to visit my bf this wkend! :D just saw a moped get chewed out for running a stop sign. made my day. GTPD++ get a name tag at a party...then forget to take it off the next day and wear it to work. the kid next to me is wearing sex panther. it’s attacking my nostrils I second bringing Mr. Bean to Tech!! Before May 2012. Thanks to all you Liberal Arts Career Week supporters! Can’t wait to attend. Delta co-ops get all the perks without the work.
Focus
focus@nique.net Focus Editor: Siddharth Gurnani Assistant Focus Editor: Gaines Halstead
Technique
Campus living entails the entire experience of residence halls and apartments, the activities surrounding them, and hanging out with friends on campus. This week’s Focus takes a look at habitation at Tech.
11
Friday, February 17, 2012
Apartment complexes suit different tastes, budgets By Lorelyn Kilby Contributing Writer
Living on campus has plenty of perks — the proximity of classes to dorms and apartments, hassle-free utilities, and living near friends. However, it also has its cons, including high cost and noise restrictions. For some, the allure of living in an apartment flat or loft off campus is too sweet to deny.
Apartment hunting can seem a daunting task on the surface, but simply taking the time to select what features and amenities are most important can make the search far more manageable. The best way to get a feel for what kind of experience an apartment complex provides is to research reviews and talk to current or past residents. Leasing agents will always put their best foot forward and show off their better as-
sets. It’s important to be aware of potential drawbacks before signing that lease. Though there are a lot of good housing options in midtown, proximity to campus can be an issue. These apartment complexes, located within 1.5 miles of Tech’s campus, each have different amenities and features that might make one of them the perfect fit.
17th Street Lofts
Location 260 17(1/2) Street, 1.5 mi from Student Center, 30 min walk. Closest Stinger Stop 14th Street Stops, Green Route Price $745-$800/person (1,480 sqft) 4 Bedroom / 4 Bath Utilities Trash $7.50/month, electric submetered.
The Flats
Location: 450 16th St. NW, 1.1 miles from Student Center, 25 min. walk. Closest Stinger Stop: 14th and State St., Green route Price: $745-$800/person (1,480 sq.ft.) 4 Bedroom/4 Bath Utilities: Water included, electric sub-metered. Amenities: Washer/dryer in room fitness center, computer rooms, study rooms, billiards room, alarm system. Fully furnished. Other Facts: Across from Ikea, free Wi-Fi, only college students are eligible, parking included in rent. Leasing Office: 877-838-8147
Amenities Washer/dryer in room, lofted ceilings and bedrooms. Other Facts Located in the center of Atlantic station, everyone qualifies for application; parking is free for residents, city views, pet friendly. Leasing Office 404-815-0224
100 Midtown
Location 100 10th St., 1.1mi from Student Center, 22 min walk. Closest Stinger Stop 10th and Atlantic, Green Route Price $729/person (1,320 sqft), 4 Bedroom/2 Bath Utilities Included in rent Amenities Washer/dryer in room, fitness center, computer rooms, study rooms, game room, movie viewing rooms. Fully furnished. Other Facts Close to Publix, next to interstate, pets not allowed, residents all have background check, parking not included in rent. Leasing Office 1-877-668-7406
Color
Westmar Student Lofts
Centennial Place
Location 800 W. Marietta St., 1.2 miles from Student Center, 25 min. walk. Closest Stinger Stop Student Center, Red, Blue, Trolley Price $629/person (1450 sq.ft.) 4 Bedroom/4 Bath Utilities Not included, incentives given for most energy-efficient residents. Amenities Washer/dryer in room, fitness center, resort-style pool and sun deck, rooftop track, study rooms, billiards/game room, convenience market, mail center, study areas, computer labs. Fully furnished. Other Facts Shuttle service to Tech, TV included in room, all guests checked in. Leasing Office 404-897-1003
Location 526 Olympic Centennial Drive, .08mi from Student Center, 15 min walk. Closest Stinger Stop North Avenue, Red and Blue route Price $1400/person (1231 sq. ft) 2 Bedroom/1.5 Bath/garage and driveway. Utilities Water and trash included. Amenities Washer/dryer in apartments, fitness center, mail center, pool, gated parking. Some apartments feature garages and a driveway. Other Facts Short walk to Downtown, the Georgia Aquarium, World of coke, the Tabernacle, and the CNN Center. Leasing Office 404-892-0772 Image courtesy of Google Maps
Campus living options present advantages, disadvantages By Avanti Joglekar Contributing Writer
The Freshman Experience at Tech mandates that all incoming students live in a residence hall with another person. Indeed, first year would not be the same without the experience of living in a room that’s not only smaller than the room students had at home, but also one they share with another person. After a year of sleeping on a bed lofted to the point where the ceiling becomes the leading cause
of head injury, students welcome the opportunity to choose among three main options as their new dwelling. One option popular among second-year students is to continue living on campus in apartment or suite-style residence halls, affording greater degrees of privacy, such as North Ave. Apartments, Center Street Apartments, etc. The convenience of easy access to campus facilities, increased time with cherished friends also living on campus, and the envied option of sleepily stumbling to
class remain benefits to the resident — assuming they are able to afford it. In addition to meal plan considerations and the scrutiny of an RA regarding adherence to Housing policy, the subtle costs of living on campus are a factor to evaluate carefully against alternative locations in the surrounding Atlanta area. Many third- and fourth-year students choose to relocate to an off-campus residence in the Atlanta area such as Marietta Street Apartments or the Loft. While
this provides students with a greater degree of freedom and a sense of growing independence, issues such as transportation to and from campus, hassle of paying utility bills, and an adjustment in lifestyle need to be addressed to ensure optimal functioning across academic, financial, and personal endeavors. A popular third option open to those who have family living in Georgia is to move back home which, despite the unfavorable conditions of having roommates called “Mom, Dad, and/or Sib-
ling,” has the benefit of being the most fiscally advantageous. While the transportation and increased dedication and accountability involved with making it to campus to attend classes, meetings, projects, and events remain concerns to evaluate, the responsibility it fosters and savings retained from returning home could outweigh the aversion to moving home that students express. Regardless of where students choose to live, the option to relocate is always open to those unsatisfied with their current residence.
12 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
FOCUS
Activities supplement campus living ThinkBig communities offer twist to traditional living
By Madison Lee Contributing Writer
For many students that live on campus, it can be hard to come up with things to do outside of academics. Though Tech is located in the middle of a bustling city, entertainment venues are not easily accessible using public transportation. Frat parties on the weekends aside, what can students do to hang out on campus? Bookstores can make for interesting places to spend time. When wanting to read something that isn’t found on a class syllabus for a change, students should head over to the Barnes & Noble in Tech Square. Grab a warm beverage from Starbucks and browse the aisles for interesting genres. Call some friends over and review the books together. For those who don’t find anything of worth in doing that, the Tech Rec may be a good alternative. Students can always be found in the gaming lounge, which features a variety of consoles to choose from. A little competition in life is natural, so challenge friends to a game of darts, ping pong, air hockey or foosball. Bowling and billiards are also crowd pleasers, and with practice even a novice could pick of these games in no time. A game of bowling costs $0.99 per person from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays.
By Julia Wayne Contributing Writer
Photo by Jamie Howell / Student Publications
Students can spend hours in the Craft Center located on the third floor of the student center, engaged in pottery, painting, and art. Give the artistic right-hand side of the brain the workout it has been missing at the Craft Center, located on the Student Center third floor. Making a vase, a bowl or something more imaginative with different clays to choose from, or just use a mold and paint an unfinished project can be stress-relieving. In the “Play Pen,” there are materials in supply that can be used to make picture frames, stain glass and generally distract from the re-
ality of impending midterms. For those into photography, the darkroom in the Craft Center can be rented for $15 a semester and can be used to develop film. Curran Parking Deck volleyball and basketball courts across from the Undergraduate Learning Commons provide opportunities to start friendly games with friends. Playing intramural sports like soccer and flag football on the See Activities page 14
Freshmen at Tech have the opportunity to live in communities called The Freshman Experience, where students live together and participate in dorm activities forming long-lasting friendships with one another. For a long time, other undergraduates did not have a campus housing option that fostered community living. ThinkBig is a living-learning community that allows students to pick a topic of interest to pursue outside of the classroom. Students live in West Campus Apartments, Fourth Street Apartments or North Ave Apartments and participate in faculty-led events, discussions and outings. Each topic is headed by a faculty member who plans all of the activities and outings for the 30 students in that topic. Established in 2008, Living Learning Communities, such as ThinkBig, were formed as a result of a student engagement survey. This survey voiced the opinion that Tech needed more facultystudent interaction and a stronger intellectual community. Because of this, Housing and the Office of Undergraduate Studies collaborated to form the ThinkBig program.
To be eligible to be a part of ThinkBig, students must fill out an application and pay an additional $150 to cover events and outings. This application is available at thinkbig.gatech.edu and is due March 1. Each ThinkBig topic appeals to students by combining learning with exciting activities. Kids@Nature is one of the new communities for 2012-2013. “Participants will gain experience in outdoor skills, wilderness first aid, leadership and working with youth,” said Dr. Alfred Merrill, a professor of the School of Biology. Other topics include ATL: the 411 on the 404, in which students explore Atlanta and Tech’s impact on the city, Humor: putting the HA in AHA, which explores types of humor and how they can impact technical innovation. Some topics, such as Life in Art and Imagination and Music Matters, allow students to learn more about subjects that are not available as classes at Tech while Techie-Trekie: New Frontiers in Space and Thought for Food are more focused on expanding students’ hobbies. “ThinkBig is a great program for people we want to do different things, both on and off campus. It’s a good way to get away from See ThinkBig, page 14
FOCUS
STUDENTS SPEAK Each week, the Focus section seeks student opinion on some of the most important and pertinent questions related to the theme of the week.
Value additions to campus housing By Gaines Halstead Assistant Focus Editor
Whether it is for convenience, safety, or cost, many students at Tech decide to spend their college years living on campus at one of the many residence halls. From study rooms to shared bathrooms, each residence hall has its advantages and disadvantages that help to create a unique living experience that is essential for every college student. While dorms have gotten a bad reputation over the years, they have come a long way and are continuing to evolve every year with new improvements thanks to input from the student body. For some students, social factors place a big role in resident life. “I enjoy living on campus. I don’t have to worry about paying rent or bills every month since everything is taken care of in advance,” said Justin Luk, secondyear ISyE major and North Ave. resident. “But there are a few improvements I’d like to see. Maybe more common areas that aren’t designated as study areas on each floor, so that I can have somewhere to go on my floor besides my room to sit and relax,” Luk said. For others, what’s inside the dorm plays a big role. “I feel like better appliances could be provided for the students. We some times have problems with our stove and I could definitely use an ice maker while living in a dorm with three other people,” said Casey Aultman, a third-year INTA major. “I think the furniture could
use some improvements. Our couch, mattresses, and chairs could definitely be more comfortable. I wouldn’t mind if Housing gave us the option to upgrade or provide our own furniture,” said Katie Smith, a third-year ISyE major. Though one can argue about the quality of amenities provided, the cost of housing can be used to make a direct comparison. “While the residence halls provide a great location and allow me to get to class quickly, the overall cost of living on campus isn’t worth it when compared to other options that I can find offcampus,” said Margaret Wright, a third-year MGT major. Sometimes it’s not the furniture or the space but amenities in the building that could be improved. “Overall, I’m happy with life on campus, the only thing I’d really like to see is a few vending and ice machines on my floor in North Ave. I always enjoy getting a soda late at night while I’m studying and doing homework, but having to trek down to the bottom floor to get my late-night caffeine fix can sometimes be a hassle,” said Charlotte Parkes. “I think it’s great that North Ave got a dining hall, but I’d definitely like to see some kind of all night dining option somewhere on west-campus. You can only eat Lucky Buddha so many times,” said Brian Krause, a fifth-year NRE major. The Residence Hall Association is here to serve residents. Look for their office in the Flag building to leave feedback.
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Technique • February 17, 2012 • 13
Residents transform small living spaces By Lauren Townsend Contributing Writer
One of the greatest challenges about living in student housing is the lack of space. Students often have a lot of stuff with little room to organize. This makes it important to utilize space efficiently and smartly in order to make the most out of living on campus. When done properly this makes even a small dorm room feel like a home. “I live in Woody’s, and the rooms are pretty big but with two of us, we don’t have much space. My roommate and I decided to bunk our beds, and then we got a futon because we had more space,” said Erica Yong, a second-year ISyE major. Many students buy cheap and versatile furniture such as futons or small tables from places like Ikea to make the most of their space. “I lofted my bed and put an Ikea futon underneath. I’ve also got a tiny TV so when I come back
from class I can just sit in my chair and watch TV,” said Malika Zurich, a second-year MGT major. Wall art, rugs and lamps can liven up a small room. “My roommates and I decided to buy a bunch of posters for the living room. We felt that it would make the place feel more like home, you know? It’s nice because we can just make the living room our own,” said Jenny Burnett, fourthyear BIO major. Other students make their living space their own by rearranging the furniture provided by campus housing. “I sleep on my mattress on the floor and then put all my boxes of stuff on the lofted bed frame. It’s so much easier this way because now I have space for my desk and chair and wardrobe and I don’t have to worry about all of my stuff,” said Emily Bell, fourth-year M.E major. Other students who dislike living on campus and the small liv-
ing quarters of campus housing get a little creative. “My roommates and I hate the couches that are in the living room, so we took them out and put them in one of our roommate’s rooms. We bought new couches and put them in there and now he sleeps in the living room,” said Michael Blane, fourth-year CHEM major. “Some people who come over think it’s weird, but we all like it better that way, and now my roommate has a couch in his room.” There are many ways to make better use of small campus space. Some students buy futons and loft their beds to increase space, while others simply rearrange the furniture that is provided. Putting up art and placing lamps makes the place more inviting. Even though campus housing doesn’t provide fancy furniture or much room, with a little bit of creativity, any campus space can be transformed for the better.
Photos by Will Folsom and Virginia Lin / Student Publications
Small spaces can get messy easily (L) if belongings aren’t put away in a timely manner. A little rearrangement of furniture (R) and an addition of carpets, drawers make the space seem roomier.
14 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
FOCUS
I-House provides exposure, understanding of others
Activities
SAC fields is also popular, and the Burger Bowl is a perfect spot to toss a Frisbee or a football around. When hungry, grab a bite to eat at Umma (Japanese) or Barrelhouse in Tech Square. When getting lunch at the eateries in the Student Center Commons, take it to the Campanile for some air or the rooftop gardens of the Clough Commons to enjoy the view. Check event listings in the Student Center and the Ferst Center for the Arts on campus to mix things up.
ThinkBig Photos by Grace Stephens and Allyson Stone / Student Publications
The I-House is located in the Hayes House and Fourth Street apartments on East campus (L). Dorms host residents (R) from many different countries and backgrounds. There is a mix of foreign exchange students and local Tech students, both in and out of state. By Nirav Bhatia Contributing Writer
Choosing a place to live on campus can be tricky. Everyone has their own tastes when it comes to their living quarters. For some, socializing is paramount, while for others, a comfortable bed and a quiet place to study is sufficient. One place on Tech campus that offers all that and a little something else is the International House, or the I-House for short. The I-House is a great place on campus for different cultures and nationalities to come together and experience life together. The I-House is located in the Hayes House and Fourth Street apartments on Techwood Drive.
Each room in the I-House consists of two individual rooms separated by a bathroom, thereby providing each resident with a space of his or her own. This space is a lot bigger than that in the individual rooms boasted by the popular North Avenue Apartments, with the added benefit of meeting some interesting people on each floor. The I-House crowd is evenly divided. “50 percent of the residents are exchange students, and fifty percent local and international,” said John Piechowski, an exchange student from Australia and IHouse resident. Present residents represent countries like Denmark, Australia, Britain, Ireland, Korea, China, and India.
With a vibrant, diverse group of people living in close quarters, it is common for I-House residents to walk through the halls and receive free casual lessons in languages such as French, Spanish, and even Swedish. I-Culture events are popular amongst residents. I-Culture events, such as I-India, or I-China, for instance, are events hosting food and music from a certain country. They are great for mingling with other cultures and trying out something other than the usual fare at the dining halls. The I-House receives a certain budget, like any other residence hall, to throw parties for occasions such as the Super Bowl, Val-
entine’s day, and others. Living in a community with different cultures also involves a good amount of tolerance of other people’s customs and traditions. “People here have an open mind, and if they have a problem, they usually talk to someone about it,” Rao said. The cost of living in I-House is more or less along the same lines of living in any other Tech apartment, with rent starting at about $3000. For some, this is a good investment as there are ample opportunities to make new friends, learn new things, have fun, and most important of all, learn about the world that is beyond the Tech bubble.
from page 12
from page 12
all the stresses of school,” said Charlotte Huang, a third-year ISyE major. ThinkBig communities take advantage of the relationship between faculty and student by requiring faculty to visit the hall for a coffee hour once a week. A res resident advisory board exists for each community. The advisory board is formed by ThinkBig residents to work with faculty members to further the topics based on the changing interests of the students. The board influences not only the topics offered, but the events that are planned throughout the year. The increase from eight topics in the 2011-2012 year to twelve topics for the 2012-2013 year speaks for the program’s success. For more information and the application for the upcoming school year, visit thinkbig.gatech.edu.
Entertainment
entertainment@nique.net Entertainment Editor: Hank Whitson Assistant Entertainment Editor: Jonathan Peak
Princess delights all ages By Hank Whitson Entertainment Editor
Technique
15
Friday, February 17, 2012 SHOWS
The Princess and the Goblin PERFORMER: Atlanta Ballet LOCATION: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center
Last Friday, The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center boasted the world premiere of Twyla DATE: Feb. 10-19 Tharp’s latest ballet, The Princess and The Goblin, performed by Atlanta Ballet. At 70, Tharp has had a storied career, working with dance celebrities like Mikhail Baryshnikov and musical OUR TAKE: ««««« influences as diverse as Joel, Dylan and Sinatra, but up until now her oeuvre has lacked a classical fairy-tale ballet of her own. While most of Tharp’s earlier works have been tailored for more mature audiences, with varying political intensity, The Princess and The Goblin is pleasingly light-hearted and kid friendly, without succumbing to banality. The story, based on George MacDonald’s 1872 fairytale novel by the same name, follows young Princess Irene (Alessa Rogers), who discovers that the town’s children are being abducted by a society of nefarious but bumbling goblins. Her fashionable, conceited, and completely disinterested father, King Papa (John Welker), is more interested in throwing elaborate garden parties than recovering Irene’s abducted younger sisters, Stella and Blu (Stella McFall and Flannery Bogost). It is up to Irene and her commoner friend, Curdie (Jacob Bush), to rescue the snatched children from the goblins. Along the way, our heroine receives guidance from the spirit of her great-great-grandmother Irene (Christine Winkler) and ultimately ends up confronting the goblin queen (Tara Lee) and king (also, John Welker). It See Princess, page 17
Images courtesy of Atlanta Ballet
They Might Be Giants still imaginative, humorous CONCERT
They Might Be Giants PERFORMER: They Might Be Giants LOCATION: Variety Playhouse DATE: Feb. 11
OUR TAKE: ««««« By Lauren Payne Staff Writer
Brooklyn-based, alternativerock iconoclasts John Flansburgh and John Linnell of They Might Be Giants are known for unconventional instrumentation, surrealist lyrics and their contributions to the soundtracks of myriad television programs. It is likely that you have heard their work on Malcolm in the Middle or The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. The two Johns and backing instrumentalists did not fall short of these distinctions on an unforgivably frigid Feb. 11 at the Variety Playhouse. The ensemble is currently touring the US to deliver commemorative performances of 1988’s album, Lincoln, but their
act has continued to evolve in accordance with their enduring experimentation and 30 years of experience in the music industry. Jonathan Coulton, a Yale University graduate who has amassed a devout following as a folk-rock musician, served as a clumsily endearing precursor to the principal attraction. A number of audience members shuffled with visible disinterest as bespectacled Coulton and his crew set up shop, but the group successfully captured the admiration of the crowd with crafty renditions of tracks such as “Nemeses” and “Re: Your Brains”. Flansburgh, Linnell and friends subsequently took to the stage in a gust of fanfare not unlike that of a sporting event. The duo expressed their appreciation of the Variety Playhouse and their Peach-State fan base through a track entitled “Atlanta (The Variety Playhouse),” which affectionately describes the former World War II-era movie theater as “a hospital for people who are well.” The ensemble reintroduced 23-year-old Lincoln to virgin and veteran fans alike with keystone tracks such as “Ana Ng” and “Purple Toupee.” They also provided artful performances
of the lesser-known “Mr. Me,” “Snowball in Hell” and “Where Your Eyes Don’t Go.” Flansburgh and Linnell paid additional tribute to a panoply of tracks off of their expansive discography, including their most recent effort, “Join Us.” While the front men of They Might Be Giants graced the audience with their trademark blend of accordion and electric guitar, drummer Marty Beller provided an excellent rhythmic backbone to tracks that were originally accompanied by a drum machine. The show would have benefited from the customary brass ensemble to supplement livelier songs, but Linnell managed to fill such gaps with intriguing use of a synthetic church organ and a baritone clarinet. The Johns also kept the audience engaged with torrents of witty banter that served as proper accoutrement to lulls in musical performance (when the band experienced technical hiccups, Linnell quipped that the concert was actually entitled “The Lincoln Album: Ruined!”), and the spectacle even took on a multimedia format as the duo forged intermittent
Photo courtesy of Carl Lender via Flickr
puppet shows starring the Avatars of They, which the venue’s technicians filmed and projected onto a large screen. The performance also featured a guest appearance from a cardboard cutout of the Bushera Supreme Court. It is a common trend among seasoned musicians to dole out unimaginative iterations of older
and more popular works during live shows, but They Might Be Giants clearly transcends the nostalgia of artists such as R.E.M. and New Order: This was no candlelit vigil to the accomplishments of their younger years. John Flansburgh and John Linnell still have their ingenuity, their spunk, and their hair.
16 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
ENTERTAINMENT
Yonder’s jams improvisational, conversational CONCERT
Yonder Mountain String Band PERFORMER: Yonder Mountain Spring Band LOCATION: Tabernacle DATE: Feb. 11
OUR TAKE: ««««« By Brian Edmonds Contributing Writer
On one cold Saturday night of Feb. 11, the Yonder Mountain String Band and opening act The Infamous String Dusters treated an enthusiastic audience to four hours of free-form improvisational bluegrass at the Tabernacle. While this genre may seem peculiar to some, banjo player for Yonder, Dave Johnston, explained the roots of his band. “We like the fundamentals of bluegrass: harmony syncing and ensemble playing. That’s what informed us to get together as a band, was that type of music. But as we continued playing together we also found that we shared an appreciation for jam bands such as Phish and the Grateful Dead as well as an appreciation for highly improvised music. We also found out that we had a strong affinity for the simplicity of the directness of punk rock. We became comfortable with who we were playing instruments together.”
This highly improvised music kept the audience grooving and dancing well into the night. Yonder capitalized on the intimacy of the Tabernacle with extended and energized jams that complimented their colorful light show nicely. Founded in Colorado in 1998, Yonder sports a bluegrass lineup of Jeff Austin on mandolin, Dave Johnston on banjo, Adam Aijala on guitar, and Ben Kauffman on bass. In fact, it is this bluegrass lineup that helps separate their sound from more classic jam bands. “The stereotype that jam bands are these very long noodly musical phenomena is there for a reason because that happens. We try to avoid that. We try to stretch out but also be direct and succinct in where we’re going,” Johnston said. Where Yonder and classic jam bands do share similarities is the emphasis on the live performance. “Our main focus is our performance, so in that regard we are kind of a jam band. But a distinction that should be made about Jam Bands is that it is almost a title for the fans that love highly improvisational music... [The fans] are going to rage and have a good time. That to me feels more like what a jam band is,” Johnston said. And jam is precisely what Yonder did. The band interwove extended instrumental solo periods with yee-haw flavored lyrics in its own unique way. It is safe to say
Photo by Brian Edmonds / Student Publications
that the most interesting component of their performance was the jamming. Yonder prefers to allow every member a chance to be the focal point rather than adopt a regular leader. “A lot of what happens on stage with Yonder during the jams is truly very free form and conversational. That’s how I like to describe
it. It’s like were having a conversation with our instruments, that’s the limitation. Other than that its very free. But we try not to go over board. Have the sense to make your point and then let someone else play,” Johnston said. This formula kept the audience on its feet and moving for the majority of the night. The sound
Yonder produced was unique and relatively good for the genre of live improvisational shows. That is not to say that the band was error free throughout, as a couple of notes were missed here and there. However, anyone who enjoys the genre of live music will be well served to catch Yonder next time they come into town.
ENTERTAINMENT
Cursive’s Gemini explores duality MUSIC
Cursive I Am Gemini LABEL: Saddle Creek Records GENRE: Indie Rock TRACK PICKS: “This House Alive,” “Drunken Birds”
OUR TAKE: ««««« By Avanti Joglekar Contributing Writer
Cursive’s seventh album I Am Gemini tells the tale of the reunion between the twin brothers, Cassius and Pollock, for the first time since their separation at birth. It will be released next week on Feb. 21. Along with classic Cursive sounds, such as the discordant piano reminiscent of the 2003 album “The Ugly Organ,” the album contains new experimental sounds unlike anything the band has released before. Tim Kasher wrote “Gemini” with the tale of duality already in mind; the album encases the dreamlike and potent story of the reunion between these brothers — one evil and the other good — from the eerie opening track “This House Alive.” The entire album retains a certain darkness and the lyrics take care to note the extremes — good versus evil, the sun versus moon, and pleasure versus pain — in a understated, yet endlessly poetic, manner.
Photo Courtesy of Saddle Creek Records
Cursive maintains their reputation as creators of meta, selfreferential albums that reward repeated listens in the story of the conjoined twins as they drive each other to insanity when reunited. Kasher’s lyrics have approached mythical or literary topics in the past, such as in “Driftwood,” but Gemini is Cursive’s clearest concept album. From a technical perspective, the music is the most diverse display Cursive has ever relseased, with the band’s affinity for odd noises and dischordant, carni-
val-like tendencies appearing throughout the album’s journey through the world of Cassius and Pollock. Gemini is a CD that fans would benefit immensely from purchasing, as the inset of the album is published as a playbill providing additional information. Overall, for their seventh album, Cursive succeeds. Cursive will be promoting I Am Gemini via a tour across America, with their stop in Atlanta at the Earl falling on April 8 for the price of $20.
Technique • February 17, 2012 • 17
Princess
from page 15
is the queen’s two guards, Helfer and Podge (Christian Clark and Jesse Tyler), who steal the show with their comic buffoonery and high-energy, athletic variations and pas de trois with Curdie. Tharp’s choreography may be best described as contemporary ballet, with prominent jazz and modern influences and even small pinches of pop. Not all of the choreography is ground breaking: The more traditional corps de ballet accompanying the dances between Irene and her grandmother are suitably ghostly and elegant, with lots of twirling, but they are not especially memorable. The goblin’s choreography is fascinating though, as it is distinctly balletic, but also undeniably earthy, with frequent leaden impacts and lots of making for a captivating blend of grace and brutishness. One common thread with Tharp’s earlier ballets is a frequent use of dance representing specific narrative actions through liberal use of pantomime. All of the principle dancers in Princess were expressive, using subtle gestures to speak volumes about their character. John Welker in particular was quite effective, bringing a performance that is by turns imperious, petty, and cruel but ultimately tender. There are also quite a few striking choreographic metaphors, including a tableau at the garden party to illustrate the adult’s indifference and powerlessness to thwart the goblin’s abductions. The fight choreography is comi-
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cal rather than visceral, with lots of stomping and high kicking accompanied by pratfalls. The goblin pas de deux’s are real treats, featuring moves that are wobbly, squirmy and rigid; a few maneuvers even seem to be partially inspired by planking. The children’s dances tow the line with saccharinity but never cross over into cloying. The choreography of the eleven stolen children seems to share more in common with playground antics—like jumping jacks—than traditional ballet, but the two younger princesses display excellent pantomime and dancing skills. These scenes will likely to appeal to all audiences put-off by the more pretentious choreography of classical ballets. The set design is very minimalistic, consisting primarily of streamers hanging from on high, differentiated to resemble both falling rain and hanging roots in the goblin’s underground kingdom. There are few neat tricks though, like a shroud to represent ghosts and silhouettes to portray the comparatively grizzly downfall of the goblin monarchs. The music, taken from Schubert and original compositions by Richard Burke is pleasant, if not as memorable or iconic as other traditional ballets. With repeated stagings, however, it may gain similarly pleasing familiarity. The Princess and The Goblin pokes fun at traditional ballets with obvious and tremendous affection. Tharp’s fairytale makes for an ideal way to introduce kids, or dance skeptics to the pleasures of storytelling through dance.
18 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
ENTERTAINMENT
The River terrifies with Paranormal, Lost vibes TELEVISION
The River NETWORK: ABC WHEN: Tuesdays at 9 STARRING: Bruce Greenwood, Joe Anderson
OUR TAKE: ««««« By Avanti Joglekar Contributing Writer
The River, ABC’s intriguing and terrifying new show, is “nothing like anything else on television,” says creator Oren Peli, director of the first “Paranormal Activity” film. Indeed, the two episodes constituting last Tuesday’s premiere established that this is no typical medical or police drama, but rather a mini horror movie shot in the style of a documentary. The plot involves the disappearance of TV personality Dr. Emmet Cole (Bruce Greenwood), a wildlife expert comparable to Steve Irwin while he was on a search for magic in an uncharted part of the Amazon, comparable to the Bermuda triangle. When his emergency beacon goes off six months later, his family, friends and crew follow his coordinates to the abandoned ship, where instead of Dr. Cole they encounter a supernatural evil, illustrating what a mysterious and potentially lethal journey it will be to find him.
Photo courtesy of ABC
The character development and relationships provide some continuity throughout the monsterof-the-week narrative structure, with the rescue team confronting spirits, ghosts, demons, and other dangers while learning of the deeper, potentially apocalyptic mystery the footage insinuates. There are parallels between the
use of mystery, suspense and the choice to film The River in Hawaii to another ABC hit: Lost. While the similarities are apparent, the style of Paranormal Activity and free license to take the terror as far as the production team desires make this horror quite distinct from J.J. Abrams’s creation. “There’s nothing else like it. It’s
a very scary show,” Peli said before an audience viewed a special screening of The River in January. Their responses captured the same breed of terror cameras evoked in Paranormal Activity; the anticipation and tension builds in the audience’s mind as a creepy situation is captured on shaky cameras. The story hints at a greater terror with
potentially catastrophic and horrific implications for the cast and humanity, connecting the narrative for the first season’s eight episodes. The shock tactics used by these films include grainy video, jumpy editing and action filmed so darkly and chaotically to be incomprehensible — a criticism which may deter some viewers.
ENTERTAINMENT
Technique • February 17, 2012 • 19
House fights frenetic, marred by predictable plot FILM
Safe House GENRE: Action, Thriller STARRING: Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds DIRECTOR: Daniel Espinosa RATING: R RELEASE DATE: Feb. 10
OUR TAKE: ««««« By Brent Hornilla Contributing Writer
Tobin Frost (Denzel Washington) is an ex-CIA operative gone rogue. Once the best of the best, he now makes a living selling classified intelligence to the highest bidder. However, upon obtaining a particularly sensitive set of files during a rendezvous in Cape Town, South Africa, he turns himself in at the American embassy to avoid assassination. In comes Matt Weston (Ryan Reynolds), the agent managing the safe house that Frost is transferred to, and just in time to liven things up—earlier Weston is seen begging for a transfer in the hopes of finally seeing some action. There’s an interrogation scene that is abruptly interrupted when a group of mercenaries burst in to retrieve Frost and the intel at his disposal. Weston manages to escape with captive in tow and the two struggle to survive their pursuers and outwit each other. From here on, scene after scene of non-stop action that snowballs in intensity occur, each preceeding one gorier than the last. There are no superhero moments here: the endless amounts of ammunition, miraculous dodging of bullets at point blank or even the “I know I’ve just been shot, but give
Photo Courtesy of Universal Pictures
me a piece of cloth to tie it with and I’ll be fine for another half hour as I’m bleeding out” moments expected of most action films. Instead, shootouts and fight scenes are given a surprising sense of realism as characters respond to fatigue and succumb to injuries. Through some well-timed quick cuts, fights can actually be followed without getting lost in close-ups and blurry movements. There’s also something to be said for the effective use of sound effects to jolt the audience during
moments of high-strung intensity. Unfortunately, most audiences will be ultimately dissatisfied by the film’s shallow and predictable plot. Sufficing to say that if every possible action and espionage cliché were thrown into a blender, the resultant mess of a screenplay might actually be better than Safe House. While the action scenes are well executed, everything in between is a mad-lib of clichés and red herrings, including everyone is everyone’s enemy, nothing is
as it seems, and of course nobody can be trusted. The result is that audiences know exactly who can be trusted and the distractions do little but test the mood and attention spans of viewers. Granted, Safe House sports an impressive cast with two excellent leads: Washington portraying a calm and collected Frost whose actions and expressions speak volumes more than his words and Reynolds contrasting strongly as Weston, the unfortunate guy caught completely out of his ele-
ment as he struggles just to keep his head above water. Not even powerhouse performances, however, can redeem a movie with as little character and plot development as this one. Long before the credits roll, it is obvious how this movie ends, and most will walk away dissatisfied. There’s hardly any substance to be found here, so Safe House is only suggested for huge fans of the leads or those who have an unwavering devotion to even mediocre action films. Want to reach
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ENTERTAINMENT
20 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
MovieFest displays Tech’s creativity EVENT
Campus MovieFest PERFORMER: Georgia Tech Students
CITY SCENE
LOCATION: Georgia Tech DATE: Feb. 8
OUR TAKE: «««««
Photo by Chris Gooley / Student Publications
By Joe Murphy Contributing Writer
The world’s largest student film festival, “Campus MovieFest,” came to Tech this past week with the challenge for students to create a movie of under five minutes and on any subject, in only one week. Dozens of teams took up this challenge, and on Wednesday, Feb. 8, the top 16 films were shown in the Ferst Center during the awards ceremony. Campus MovieFest was started at Emory University back in 2001 by just a single group of students, and has since blossomed into a worldwide event, complete with more than 500,000 participants. Students are provided with camcorders and Apple laptops in order to create their films in one week, and the teams with the best films from each school move on to the final Campus MovieFest awards ceremony in Hollywood, California. Tech has been participating in this festival for several years now, further proving that this college has far more to offer in terms of creativity than expected of just a bunch of engineers. This year, the top films varied among tales of tragic love, suspenseful noir, and comical antics. Titles included Instructional Opposition Disorder, Take Care, or the simple Rick. To give an example of the absolute creative freedom of subject choice granted to
By Jonathan Peak Assistant Entertainment Editor
Song Byeok: Departure
Photo Courtesy of Campus MovieFest
these students, one movie features a pair of college students preparing to escape from the police by building an enormous paper airplane, while another simply showcases the journey of a single sock around campus. After all 16 films were shown awards were given out for Best Actor and Best Actress, as well as for highest rated films in each genre (with these winners moving on to the next step of the competition in Hollywood). The award for Best Actor went to upperclassmen Cary Horan for his role in the film Paper Airplane, in which he played one of the hilariously desperate students trying to evade the capture mentioned above. Louella Lugo received the award for Best Actress for her comical role in the film Elevator Experiences, which depicted all the awkward moments that arise while riding an elevator. Surprisingly, both of these performers were awarded for their roles in comedy, which rarely seems to happen in more mainstream events such as the Academy Awards. Both Horan and Lugo were voted on by a group of students and faculty, as were the highest ranked films in the categories of Best Drama, Best Comedy and Best Picture.
The award for Best Drama went to the heart-wrenching Take Care, a film that depicted the loss of a loved one and the events that follow. Best Comedy went to Paper Airplane, which as a result received the most awards of the night. And finally, the prestigious award of Best Picture went to the drama The Therapist, which included the youngest actor of all the top films as well as a remarkable animated sequence that no doubt helped put it a step above the competition. All three films and their teams will have a place in the Hollywood competition, and as an added bonus, The Therapist will be shown at the worldfamous Cannes Film Festival in Paris later this year. As for the films that did not receive any awards this time around, there is still some hope. The top 16 movies are viewable on the Campus MovieFest website, and the movie with the most views by March 8 will receive the Wild Card Award, and will proceed on to the Hollywood events. As of press time, Take Care is in the lead with over 1,900 views, but only time will tell which film will land that coveted ticket to the next level of the competition.
North Korean artist Song Byeok debuts his latest collection of acrylics this Friday, Feb. 17, at The Goat Farm Arts Center in Marietta. Once a propagandist for Kim Jong-Il, Byeok now creates painting satirizing regimes from all over the world. The free show opens at 7 p.m. with the artist giving a talk, followed by a performance by a Korean folk group. There will also be an auction following benefiting a North Korean refugee center.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey: Fully Charged
The circus returns to Atlanta this week! The all-new show is replete with stunts, acrobatics and of course elephants guaranteed to thrill attendees. The main feature is Tabayara, an animal trainer, said to be able to communicate with wild beasts. Tickets start at $14 with shows running nightly at 7:30 p.m. and weekend matinees through Monday.
Atlanta Jewish Film Festival
This film festival put on by the American Jewish Committee shows films at theaters all around Atlanta that “build bridges of understanding.” This year’s festival is the biggest yet, with 52 feature films and running through the end of the month. The AJFF is Atlanta’s largest film festival with over 26,000 attendees. Tickets, show times, and locations vary but are easily accessed at ajff.org. Some movies include Israel’s first horror film Rabies and the Oscar nominated Sonny Boy.
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ENTERTAINMENT
Technique • February 17, 2012 • 21
Theme Crossword: Forget-Me-Not By James Barrick United Features Syndicate ACROSS
1. Faction 5. Passport mark 10. Place for pigeons 14. Philippines island 18. Hodgepodge 19. Beer 20. Columbus’ ship: Santa -21. Spindle 22. Effrontery 23. Cottonwood tree 24. Microwaves 25. Rodent 26. Start of a quip by Al Pacino: 5 wds. 30. Mise-en- -31. A son of Zeus 32. Bedouin 33. Most gentle 36. Down with, in Dijon (2 wds.) 37. Censor, in a way 41. City on the Rhone DOWN
1. Tooth of a kind 2. Jai -3. Weather forecast 4. George Gallup was one 5. Quenches 6. Genius 7. Cameo stone 8. Reminder 9. Apt to be true 10. Washes 11. Provo neighbor 12. Choice 13. Island near Victoria
42. Season 43. Narrow groove 44. Quite a lot 45. Row 46. Part 2 of quip: 4 wds. 49. Kind of film 50. Honest -51. Sepal anagram 52. Rich, in a way 53. About: 2 wds. 54. Common element 56. Multitude 58. Star in Gemini 60. Saharan 61. Error 62. Summon 63. Dwelled (with “on”) 66. Recipe direction 67. Escort ship 71. Further 72. Brusque 73. Tyler Perry persona 74. Holds 75. Watson or Holliday
76. Part 3 of quip: 3 wds. 80. Number prefix 81. A cont. 82. Alps city 83. “-- we go round...” 84. Spooky 85. Like a cat burglar 87. Mention 88. Laughs a little 90. Appends 91. McShane and McKellen 92. Aboriginal Japanese 93. End of the quip: 5 wds. 100. Et -101. Allium cepa 102. Song from one’s youth 103. Crucifix 105. Prince in opera 106. Add up 107. Cousin to an electrician 108. Cogito, -- sum 109. Airway 110. Takes legal action 111. Requisites 112. Blyton or Bagnold
14. -- emptor 15. Outrageous 16. Hepatic secretion 17. Pre-owned 20. Customs 27. Summertime treats 28. One of nine sisters 29. Mulroney or Dennehy 33. Infamous angel 34. Antelope 35. Fast 36. Oohs and -37. Arrange, in a way 38. Ground forces
39. Aka Don Diego de la Vega 40. Inscribe 42. Getz or Musial 43. Avalanche 46. Chilly 47. Kind of coat or money 48. Scandinavian 51. Small opening 53. Ait 55. Engrossed 56. -- cuisine 57. Choose instead
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GT Administration uses “success kid” meme to recruit FASET leaders... that’s an “Only at ‘Tech” moment, if there ever was one! To whomever wrote the epic Simba/Home Park sliver in last week’s ‘nique: you are awesome. You need your own column. I would actually read it. Hey Tomas, Lil Wayne called, he said he wants to grab a giant plate of lasagna next Thursday. You free? @ Two Bits Man: Glad you’re back. Missed reading your column. Hate to say, but that V-Day one sucked. Bring back the magic of the “Majors @ Tech” bit. That was pure creative gold. Why did you have to graduate? What do you call a bear that dissolves in water? (Answer: a POLAR bear) wrong: the first rule of library sex club is that you don’t talk about library sex club Biotransport, you make me feel frustrated, angry, guilty, depressed, and suicidal. Be my valentine. I guess I’m gonna “forget” my buzz card every week if they keep using this system for HPS 1040 If I have to go that 3057 lecture one more time.... Screw Valentine’s Day, I’m excited about the start of “Top Tuesday” on History channel! If I found a girl who would be cool to spend V Day watching show about cars and guns, I would take a shot and ask her out! Does getting screwed by a networking test count as getting lucky on Valentine’s Day? To the cute red head with the yellow watch, Happy Valentine’s Day couple making out on the couch in UTC... *barf* come on, really? just because a guy cares about his appearance doesn’t mean he’s gay. -your well dressed peer To cute HTS 2036 girl in the 2nd row, wanna go out? -sleepy guy in corner ULC elevator, Valentine’s Day, we both went to the same floor. You’re cute. -Guy with the ‘phones
72. Blackjack 73. Mud 76. “The Great -- Pepper” 77. Virtuosos 78. Basel’s river 79. Disappoints: 2 wds. 80. Emancipates: 2 wds. 84. Case 86. Computing annoyance 87. Sideshow worker
88. Straightened 89. Deduces 91. Objects of devotion 92. Agassi or Previn 93. Scut 94. Slavic name 95.Two-toed sloth 96. Longest river 97. “It’s a sin to tell -- --” 98. Rent 99. Boo-Boo’s buddy 104. Fed. agcy.
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58. Was interested 59. Inventor’s name 61. Insect form 62. Cipher 63. Where the Styx flows 64. Circa 65. Fun and games 66. Rich in fat 67. Grotto 68. So --! 69. Tropical ungulate 70. Senator Kefauver
Help us keep Tech students informed! Send news tips to news@nique.net
22 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
COMICS
Piled Higher & Deeper by Jorge Cham
Non Sequitur by Wiley
SUDOKU PUZZLE by sudokucollection.com Crossword Solution from page 21
COMICS
Non Sequitur by Wiley
DILBERT ® by Scott Adams
Technique • February 17, 2012 • 23
24 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
SPORTS
Rush looks to bounce back after sophomore slump By Alex Mitchell Senior Staff Writer
The Tech softball team opened the regular season on Feb. 10 by beating No. 8 Arizona. The win was a sign that this year’s Tech team has enough talented players to challenge for a title. The Jackets will have to rely on their top players if they want to reach the College World Series, but one team member will play a double role this season. Junior pitcher Hope Rush enters her third season in the Jackets’ pitching rotation and has won at least 12 games each season. However, what makes Rush unique is that she is also a force behind the plate. She has hit 32 home runs in her Tech career and knocked in 98 runs. Rush’s skills at the plate have led coaches to make her the designated player on days when she is not pitching just so they can put her in the lineup. “Pitching is my passion, and hitting is something that just relaxes me, especially if I am hitting and pitching in the same game. Being a pitcher gives me an advantage when I am at the plate because it is easier for me to pick certain pitches [to swing at],” Rush said. Rush’s ability to not let hitting get in the way of her pitching is contrary to the popular belief that focusing on one will interfere with the other. However, Rush has been defying popular belief ever
Photo by John Nakano / Student Publications
Hope Rush readies a pitch in a game last season. Rush is looking to improve both her hitting and pitching stats across the board. since she got to Tech. Rush’s freshman season was spectacular. She was a force in the circle, finishing the year with 28 wins and a 1.98 ERA. She was even better at the plate, hitting 20 home runs and slugging .659. Her numbers garnered her praise from media outlets around the country as she was first team All-ACC and was a semifinalist for the USA Softball Player of the Year award.
“I didn’t pay attention [to the numbers and accolades]… If I thought too much about [the success], it could all go downhill. People would bring it to my attention, but I just thought: ‘Okay, well now I need to keep it up’,” Rush said. However, the pressure to keep up her stellar play took a toll on Rush during her sophomore season. Rush only won 12 games as
a pitcher and saw her ERA rise to 3.10. Rush also struggled as a hitter, only knocking in 38 runs. “My sophomore season was not as good as my freshman year. I put a lot more pressure on myself during my sophomore year. My coaches, parents, and teammates didn’t put too much pressure on me; I did it to myself. I thought I had to do even better than my freshman season, and putting all that pressure on myself did not help at all,” Rush said. Rush realized that she had experienced what countless other players before her had gone through: a sophomore slump. Instead of getting better as during her second season as a college athlete, Rush seemed to regress. She could not seem to break out of her slump even as the team’s win total continued to climb. However, Rush is determined that her sophomore slump does not follow her to her junior season. Rush has been working hard this offseason to improve her game as a pitcher and a hitter. “I took two days off after last season ended to give my body a rest, and then I pitched in a summer league. I pitched two games every Sunday until the last weekend in July and made small goals for myself. That way I could be prepared physically to compete during the season,” Rush said. Perhaps more important than her hard work and reps this offseason, Rush took time to mentally
prepare herself for the regular season. “The main goal this season is for me to keep my composure. It doesn’t matter if there is a good call or bad call…This season I have just tried to be mentally tougher or what I like to call it: be a mental giant,” Rush said. The change in philosophy has also led Rush to realize that the pressure does not rest solely on her shoulders. Tech has powerful hitters who can also hit for average, and the team’s pitching success will depend on the entire staff. “We have three really good pitchers, and a team can’t be successful with one pitcher. Whether a person needs to close the game or someone only pitches half of the game, you need to have a strong pitching staff,” Rush said. The pitching staff will be instrumental if Tech is take make a serious run to the World Series, but Rush and the team are taking the season one step at a time. “As far as goals, the team has talked about laying bricks. The first brick will be winning the ACC regular season championship… The last brick is to make it to the World Series,” Rush said. Laying each one of those bricks will take hard work from the entire team, but if Rush can become a “mental giant” and play more like she did during her freshman season then the Jackets could find themselves laying more bricks than they had originally intended.
SPORTS
Technique • February 17, 2012 • 25
Softball takes charge early, wins six of seven By Joe Sobchuk Staff Writer
The Tech softball team began its 2012 campaign last week at the Kajikawa Classic in Tempe, Ariz., hosted by the defending National Champions, Arizona State. The Jackets, who began the season ranked No. 23, played five games over a three-day period, including two games against ranked opponents. They won both games of a doubleheader on Friday, Feb. 10, over Oregon State 9-8 and No. 8 Arizona 2-1. Then they split their Saturday doubleheader, besting Cal Poly 8-5 but falling to San Diego State 3-2. Finally, the Jackets took a victory on Sunday, Feb. 12, as they beat No. 20 Nebraska 6-5. The softball team’s home opener then arrived on Wednesday, Feb. 15, in the form of a doubleheader against Furman. The Jackets made quick work of the Paladins, winning both games on the day 4-2 and 8-2. The Jackets experienced an offensive explosion in their season opener against Oregon State. Tech scored six runs in the second inning and also scored in each of the last three innings to hold off the Beavers. The second inning began with two singles and a hit batsman to load the bases, followed by a pinch-hit grand slam by senior Shannon Bear to put the Jackets ahead, 4-2. It was the first grand slam of Bear’s career and gave the Jackets a lead that they would not relinquish. Sophomore Ashley Thomas, junior Hope Rush, and senior Kate Kuzma each had two hits in the game, while Bear and senior Kelsi Weseman had multiple RBIs off of home runs. Sophomore Lindsay Anderson recorded the victory in the circle, striking out five batters in six innings of work and surrendering six earned runs
Photos by Josh Sandler / Student Publications
Left: Kate Kuzma hits a pitch in one of the contests against Furman. Right: Kelsi Weseman tosses a ball back infield against Furman. Weseman finished the home double header with two home runs. on ten hits while also walking three. Rush entered the game in the seventh to earn the third save of her career. The second game of the Friday doubleheader saw the Jackets face off in a pitcher’s duel against No. 8 Arizona and upset the Wildcats 2-1. Rush started this game after closing out the last one and pitched a superb game, going all seven innings while giving up only one run on five hits. That one run came in the first inning, when a walked batter stole second and then scored on a single to center field. Rush was lights-out after that, not allowing a run or even an extra-base hit in any of the remaining six innings. Tech’s two runs came in the third inning, starting with freshman Chelsie Thomas’s hustle to first for an infield single. Sophomore Hayley Downs made it on base on a fielder’s choice, and the two run-
ners moved to second and third on a passed ball. Sophomore Alysha Rudnik batted them home with a single, and it proved to be enough for the Jackets to earn the win. Tech’s string of success continued on Saturday, Feb. 11, as they defeated Cal Poly 8-5 to start the season 3-0. Anderson got the start again for the Jackets, pitching seven full innings and giving up two runs on six hits while striking out three. She had a no-hitter going through four innings before being replaced by freshman Kylie Kleinschmidt with the Jackets up 8-0. But Kleinschmidt gave up three runs without recording an out, provoking Anderson’s return. Offensively, senior Danielle Dike started the scoring for Tech in the second inning, doubling to left-center and driving home two runs. The next batter, Ashley Thomas, cleared the bases with a three-run homer to left field and
gave the Jackets a 5-0 lead. Weseman scored the eventual game winner in the third off of a Katie Johnsky single. Also for Tech, Alysha Rudnik went three-forthree, scoring two runs and batting in another. The Jackets were handed their first loss of the season in the Saturday nightcap, falling to San Diego State 3-2. Hope Rush once again got the nod at pitcher and picked up the loss, striking out five batters and allowing three earned runs on six hits in six innings. San Diego State took an early two-run lead in the first inning off of a double and a homer, and it would be four more innings before Tech could respond in the top of the fifth. That inning saw Kate Kuzma score off of an Ashley Thomas infield single. But SDSU quickly answered that score with a run of their own in the bottom half of the frame. Tech got another run
in the top of the sixth when Alysha Rudnik scored off a Shannon Bear hit, but went down one-twothree in the seventh to close out the game. On Sunday, the Jackets earned a walk-off victory against No. 20 Nebraska to conclude the weekend in Arizona and start the season 4-1. Tech was down by three runs entering the bottom of the sixth but came back to score two unearned runs in each of the final two innings to win 6-5. The Jackets then returned home on Wednesday, Feb. 15, for their double header against Furman. Rush pitched a full game for the Jackets in the first game, allowing two runs on seven hits while striking out six Furman batters. She did not allow a run in the first six innings of the game before surrendering a two-run homer in the seventh. Offensively, the Jackets started slowly, but things picked up in the third when Weseman hit a three-run home run, bringing home Downs and Thomas. Tech added an insurance run in the sixth, when Bear doubled to score Rudnik. The second game of the double header starter with a quick Tech lead. After three outs in the top of the first by Furman, Tech came out swinging for the fences, hitting three home runs to go up 5-0. After a Rudnik walk, Bear knocked one over the left field scoreboard to put Tech up 4-0. The very next batter, Rush, hit a solo shot to left center to cap off an explosive first inning for the Jackets. Anderson pitched six innings and struck out seven, and Kleinschmidt entered the game in the seventh to earn the save. The Jackets return to action this weekend when they head to the ACC/SEC/Big 12 Challenge in Auburn, Ala.
26 • February 17, 2012 • Technique
SPORTS
Ramblin’ With
James White
by Danielle Sharpe Contributing Writer
Photos courtesy of the Georgia Tech Athletic Department
Left: Senior first-team All-American James White, who is a MGT major at Tech. Right: White hits a shot in a tournament last year. White has been a part of multiple ACC Championships in his career. Technique: When did you have first have an interest in golf? White: When my family and I moved to Acworth, GA, we moved to a golf course, and I fell in love with the sport ever since. Technique: What is your favorite thing about being a Tech student-athlete in golf? White: It’s truly amazing. When you’re able to attend an invitational in Hawaii or a classic
in Puerto Rico, it makes all of the hard work and dedication worth it- to golf in a beautiful place. Technique: Do you have any role models? White: I really like Tiger Woods because of his talent and work ethic. He is a relentless hard worker. I also look up to Matthew Kuchar, a Tech alumni and former All-American golfer. Technique: What are your
comments on the team for this season so far? White: We are a young team, but we are all learning a lot. We have ups and downs, but overall from our success so far, I am excited for the future. Technique: After Tech, where do you see yourself in the golf world? White: I see myself contending in the PGA tour. That is a goal
of mine. Technique: If you could change one rule about golf, what would it be? White: There’s a big rule I would change. When a ball comes to rests in a divot hole, a player has to play the ball where it is found. I would change this so that there is ground repair out of the divot or a player can be allowed relief from the divot. Technique: We all have a little humor in us, so please tell your best golf joke. White: You know you’re a hacker if your divot goes farther than your ball. [This is when you hit grass, and the grass goes farther than the ball itself]. Technique: If you could play any sport other than golf, what would it be? White: I have played baseball when I was younger, so I’d say baseball. But I am really into ping-pong and have played tennis from time to time. Technique: What has been your favorite class at Tech? White: Though I am a Management major, I have really enjoyed a psychology class. Also, I have taken a philosophy class, and that was a great class, too. Technique: Where is your favorite place to visit in Atlanta? White: About 15 minutes north of here, there is a place called Chattahoochee River Park. There are a lot of nice trails there, and it is great break away from the concrete and busy life in the city. Technique: If cars stopped being produced, would your transportation be: a rolling chair or a
unicycle? White: I have to go with rolling chair. That’d be more fun and easier to maneuver than a unicycle. Technique: What is your favorite movie? White: I have to say Braveheart. Technique: If you could have a super power, what would it be? White: Oh, that’s easy: to fly! Technique: If you were on American Idol, what song would you sing? White: I would sing “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe. It is a great Christian song with a great message. I love music in general, but I’m not very musically inclined. I have tried to play piano and that did not go well. So now, I sing in the car or the shower. [Laughs] Technique: Do you have a favorite actor? White: I have liked Adam Sandler since I saw Happy Gilmore. He is hilarious. Technique: Who is your favorite athlete? White: Demaryius Thomas. He was a stand out here because of his ethic and pure talent, and he has remained humble throughout all of his early successes. Technique: If you were stranded on an island, what three things would you take with you? White: I would have to have a set of golf clubs, a fishing rod, and my Bible. Technique: Where do you see yourself in 10 years? White: I see myself still playing golf.
Technique • February 17, 2012 • 27
SPORTS
Jackets drop No. 22 Tar Heels Jackets drop three
against top-10 foes
By Hattie Arnau Contributing Writer
On Sunday, Feb. 12, the Jackets were able to break their tie with the North Carolina Tar Heels for fourth place in the ACC in a back-and-forth 56-54 victory. Both teams came into the game also tied at No. 22 in the national rankings. Tech’s win over the Tar Heels was the team’s first win over a ranked opponent this season after dropping their first six tries. The matchup was the first between same-ranked teams since the Vanderbilt-Mississippi State game in 2003 for women’s basketball, and the lead changed eight times throughout the game. The Jackets started off quick with three jumpers and led 11-5 through the first five minutes of the game. However, North Carolina was able to take advantage of missed shots and turnovers, and replied to retake the lead on a jumper by Laura Bloomfield with 14:06 left in the half. The Tar Heels led for the next eight minutes of the game, but two quick three-pointers by freshman guard Sydney Wallace gave the Jackets a 25-19 lead with 5:49 left to play. Three jumpers to close out the half by senior forward Chelsea Regins gave the Jackets a 34-29 lead going into halftime. The Jackets’ bench had an impressive first half performance, with three players scoring 15 of the Jackets’ points. Tech also shot the ball efficiently, hitting 50 percent of their shots from the field, including hitting half of their three-point shot attempts. The score remained close for the first eight minutes of the second half, with the Tar Heels keeping within striking distance of the Jackets. North Carolina tied the game with 12:05 left in the half Want to reach
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Photo courtesy of the Georgia Tech Athletic Department
Metra Walthour pushes past a defender earlier this year. Walthour finished against the Tar Heels with 11 points and three rebounds. and took the lead after a jumper by Waltiea Rolle to go up 43-41. The Tar Heels then began breaking away, a six-point lead after three straight jumpers. Tech began making a comeback with a free throw and a threepointer by senior guard Metra Walthour, who had 11 points for the game. With 6:27 remaining in the game, both teams began a four-minute stretch in which neither team would score. With 2:44 remaining, sophomore guard Tyaunna Marshall had two defensive rebounds and successfully hit three jumpers to give Tech a two-point lead in the
final 30 seconds of the match-up. Sophomore guard Dawnn Maye then sealed the game, hitting three free throw attempts to set the score at 56-51 with 16 seconds remaining. North Carolina was able to sink a three-pointer with two seconds left, ending the game with a final score of 56-54. The Jackets played a game on Thursday, Feb. 16, on the road against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, prior to the time of press. They will then return to action when they return home on Sunday, Feb. 19, when they face the Boston College Eagles at Philips Arena.
On Friday, Feb. 10, the women’s tennis team headed to the Boar’s Head Tennis Club in Charlottesville, Va., to compete in the ITA National Team Indoor Tennis Tournament. Tech headed into the weekend ranked No. 13 in the nation and was set to take on the No. 4 UCLA Bruins, the No. 8 North Carolina Tar Heels, and the No. 9 Virginia Cavaliers. In the 2007 season, the Jackets won the tournament over the Bruins, and with past success in mind they were looking to put up similar results. The Jackets took on the Bruins from UCLA first and started out strong in doubles play, with the top pair of senior Jillian O’Neill and sophomore Alex Anghelescu coming out on top, 8-3. Tech’s doubles team of senior Viet Ha Ngo and sophomore Muriel Wacker defeated UCLA’s Carling Seguso and McCall Jones 8-6 to secure the doubles point on the day and take an early 1-0 lead. In singles play, junior Elizabeth Kilborn won her match 6-4, 6-4 over Jones, the No. 62 player in the singles rankings, putting Tech head of UCLA 2-0. However, these victories were short lived as UCLA rattled off four straight wins to come back and top the Jackets, 4-2. Next up for the Jackets were the Cavaliers. Virginia’s Emily Frasier and Li Xi topped O’Neill and Anghelescu at the top doubles spot to take an early lead on the day. Then Virginia’s Erin Vierra and Hana Tomljanovic served up a victory over the Tech duo of se-
nior Lynn Blau and junior Elizabeth Kilborn, the first loss for the pair this season. O’Neill managed to pull out a victory for the Jackets over Fraser in singles play on Saturday evening. However, the Jackets were ultimately unable to overcome the Cavaliers and ended the day with a 4-1 loss. On Sunday, Feb. 12, Tech took on the Tar Heels from University of North Carolina. The pair of Blau and Kilborn took down Zoe De Bruycker and Laura Slater from North Carolina 8-6 in doubles play. But that was the only early success of the day, with the Jackets trailing 1-0 behind the Tar Heels after doubles play. Singles play looked more promising for Tech as Ngo won her match 6-1, 6-4 over Shinann Featherson and Blau won her singles match as well with a 6-4, 7-6 win over Gina Suarez-Malaguti. Blau’s win allowed the team to come within one team point of UNC, with O’Neill’s match going into a third and final set against No. 44 Bruycker. However, O’Neill could not pull out the victory, dropping a break point, and losing the match 5-7, 6-2, 6-4. With three losses in singles play, the Jackets dropped the team match, 4-2. The Jackets had a tough weekend, dropping all three matches against top-10 opponents. Next for the Jackets is a trip to Northwestern to take on the No. 12 Wildcats on Friday, Feb. 24. Shortly after they face the Wildcats, the team will head over to South Bend, Ind. on Sunday, Feb. 26, to take on the No. 24 Fighting Irish of Notre Dame.
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Sports
sports@nique.net Sports Editor: Alex Sohani
Hope Renewed Hope Rush is looking to bounce back to top form after struggling in the 2011 softball season. 424
Technique
28
Friday, February 17, 2012
2012 Baseball Preview Photo by Austin Foote / Student Publications
Lineup
The Jackets lost two key players in the left infield last season — Matt Skole at third base and Jacob Esch at shortstop. Both players were top-notch hitters, battting over .315 and being at the top of the lineup in number of home runs. With these two gone, Tech will need to fill some large holes in the lineup. Sophomore Mott Hyde began last season playing at shortstop before being moved to second base. He will most likely return to short in 2012. Hyde posted a .275 batting average and was third on the team with 47 RBI last year. Senior Connor Winn will be competing with Hyde for playing time at shortstop and may see some action at second. Tech has two potential starters at third base in sophomores Alex Cruz and Chase Butler. Both saw limited playing time as freshmen, but Head Coach Danny Hall thinks both are ready to begin the season as the starter. Butler was the better hitter last season and will most likely get the start on opening day. Hall is known for making changes if he thinks it will serve the team, so Cruz will most likely see playing time on base as well, depending on his performance.
Second base will also be seeing some changes this season, as junior Sam Dove will move there from the outfield. The team has significant depth at second this season, with Winn and senior Evan Martin possibly getting playing time there. Hall may also bring Martin in as a pinchhitter or runner. While pinch-hitting last year, Martin hit two go-ahead home runs. Senior Jake Davies will be returning to first base in the starting role. Sophomore Daniel Palka has some experience at first and may see some situational playing time there. Both Davies and Palka are among the strongest returning batters on the team. Last year, Palka posted a slugging percentage of .556, highest on the team. Davies recorded the best batting average at .347 and has the second-highest slugging percentage among returning players. At catcher, sophomore Zane Evans will be the starter when he is not pitching. Evans batted .270 last season with a .327 OBP. Sophomore Mitch Earnest will have an expanded role after backing up Evans last year. Freshmen Connor Lynch and A.J. Murray will also see time as backups. In the outfield, sophomore Kyle Wren and junior Brandon Thomas return from last year. Wren will return to his position in center field, where he recorded a field-
For the second straight year, the Jackets will have to replace two-thirds of their weekend rotation and several key pieces in the bullpen. Ace starters Mark Pope and Jed Bradley are gone, as are relievers Kevin Jacob and Taylor Wood. Plenty of talent returns, though, and junior righthanders Buck Farmer and Luke Bard will lead the way for a young pitching staff that will look to continue the team’s major recent success on the mound. Farmer, the Sunday starter for the Jackets in 2011, steps into the Friday role and to the front of a very green weekend rotation. The junior was among the ACC’s top pitchers in several categories last year, going 11-3 with a 2.91 ERA and a 1.16 WHIP as opposing batters hit just .235 against him. He allowed more than three earned runs only three times and pitched eight shutout innings against then-No. 9 North Carolina. Behind Farmer in the weekend rotation will be sophomore right-hander Matthew Grimes, Tech’s primary midweek starter as a freshman last season. Grimes was solid, but unspectacular, in 2011; his 4.15 ERA was highest among regular pitchers for Tech, but he did strike out 77 batters in 73.2 innings. At 6-foot-6 with good command of his two-seam and fourseam fastballs, Grimes projects as one of Tech’s best power arms in 2012. To be successful in his new role, Grimes will need to increase his ability to last into games. Grimes made 12 starts in 2011 but did not pitch more than 6.2
innings in a game, often running up his pitch count quickly and forcing Hall to go to the bullpen. The Sunday starter role remains undecided, but the two leading candidates are a pair of sophomore right-handers who figured prominently into Tech’s pitching staff last season: Dusty Isaacs and DeAndre Smelter. Isaacs was stellar as a long reliever for Tech in 2011. Over 25 appearances— which tied for the team lead—Isaacs had a 2.72 ERA in 36.1 innings, striking out 40 and allowing 42 baserunners over that span. Opponents hit just .213 against him as he emerged as one of Hall’s most reliable bullpen options. Smelter was the more highly touted prospect of the two and had an ERA of 0.52 over 17.1 innings pitched; however, a more telling stat was that while he gave up just one earned run, he also surrendered 11 unearned runs. Smelter’s 1.56 WHIP and his poor 8:11 strikeout-to-walk ratio do not bode well, but the fact remains that he was a freshman and should improve his command in 2012. Also in the mix for the Sunday role are sophomore right-hander Jonathan Roberts, who struggled in four relief appearances last season, and freshman right-hander Cole Pitts. The anchor of the bullpen will be Bard, a polished right-hander who tied with Isaacs for the team lead with 25 appearances in 2011. After taking over Tech’s closer partway through the season, Bard emerged as one of the ACC’s top relievers.
In 49.2 innings, he recorded a 2.72 ERA and a 1.21 WHIP, striking out 46 hitters while holding opponents to a .233 average. Junior right-hander Clay Dalton and sophomore left-hander Devin Stanton should see plenty of innings this season. Dalton had a 0.79 ERA in 11.1 innings last year, allowing opponents to hit just .139 against him; his weak 9:7 strikeout-towalk ratio was troubling though. Stanton was Tech’s main left-handed specialist in 2011, pitching just eight innings across 18 appearances. He pitched well in that limited span, allowing just five hits and striking out eight. Three key position players will likely pitch out of the bullpen as well. Hall has frequently pointed to sophomore catcher Zane Evans as a candidate for a setup role; Evans, a right-hander, will bring an arsenal consisting of a fastball, slider, and curveball to the bullpen when he is not starting behind the plate. Also seeing time on the mound will be Tech’s two main left-handed power hitters, senior first baseman Jake Davies and sophomore designated hitter Daniel Palka. Davies pitched a total of 43.1 innings in his first two seasons at Tech, recording a 3.53 ERA in that span, and he and Palka should give the Jackets more flexibility with three left-handed relievers available to spell a rotation consisting entirely of right-handers.
Photo by Austin Foote / Student Publications
Pitching by nishant prasadh
Photo by Austin Foote / Student Publications
by ADAM West
ing percentage of .993. At the plate, he brings a .340 batting average with a .412 OBP as Tech’s leadoff hitter. Thomas also brings a strong bat to the team with his .307 average in 2011. Wren and Thomas responsible for the majority of the team’s stolen bases last year and will most likely be near the top of the order. Thomas spent most of 2011 in right field but will likely move to left this year. The right field situation is not set yet, but sophomore Paul Kronenfeld appears to be the leading candidate. Kronenfeld started in only four games last year and played in 22, but he could be another left-handed power bat for Tech. The other main candidate in right is freshman Charles Sheffield, who was drafted by the Oakland Athletics but decided to come to Tech. Palka may play in right on occasion, but it will not be his primary role. The role of designated hitter (DH) is still up for grabs and will most likely rotate throughout the season. Expect to see Palka, who led the team in home runs last year, bring his bat to the position. Martin may take the DH role if he is not playing at second. Kronenfeld, Sheffield, and Martin are all options for the role, depending on who is having a better game and the opposing pitching.