Currents Magazine Winter 2015

I wasn’t angry. I think she was surprised. I sprayed some perfume to freshen
the HAWC up and told her not to worry.
As we chatted, a young man slid into the seat next to Miriam and hugged
her, and I could tell that he was one of the students she was referring to
when she said she loved watching us grow up. It was clear they had known
each other for a while. He introduced himself as Jared Jackson, and I decided
to involve him in our conversation as well.
C: Jared, I can tell that you and Miriam are pretty close. How did this happen?
Jared: I don’t know, I guess I would just stop by the HAWC a lot, especially
during my freshman year. Just like, in the middle of the day to chat and to
relieve stress. She’s comforting.
C: Miriam, students here truly value your presence at Pepperdine; Jared is
just one testament to that. How does that make you feel?
M: Well, when kids come to college, they’re away from home. They’re homesick.
I just act like a mom to these kids, when they come in late at night, tired
and stressed. I talk to them and listen to what they have to say. I wouldn’t
have a job if it weren’t for the students; I am thankful for them.
C: How do you think Pepperdine would be without the HAWC?
M: The kids would have no place to really hang out. There would be no place
to get food at night and just be with your friends. Huge crowds of kids come
during Greek Life rush weeks and Songfest season since they all have late
nights. They would have nowhere to go and relax after a long day. We need
the HAWC for their sake.
C: Do you think that your time at Pepperdine has taught you anything?
M: Definitely patience. Patience and tolerance. Everyone is coming from a
different place with a different story; all of the students are away from home.
I’ve also learned to not take any rude comments personally. I just ignore
those things; again, you don’t know what that student is going through.
C: Miriam, you are considered one of the most beloved members of the
Pepperdine community. Everyone either knows you or wants to know you.
Would you like to comment on that?
M: Well, I just do my job, and that job involves being around people and
being considerate of their wants and needs. I always say to treat people the
way that you want to be treated. I use that philosophy here in the HAWC.
C: And now, one last question for you Miriam; what is your favorite food at
the HAWC? And what is the student favorite?
M: Ahhh, well, I love the chicken ciabatta sandwich. It’s my favorite. But I
think that students love the chicken tenders. We always run out of those on
busy nights.
21 · CURRENTS