The Continental - Hamilton College

the continentalspring 2008POWER IN POLITICSeurope on ashoestringUP CLOSEAND PERSONALhamilton studentsMAKE their markon CAPITOL HILLat homewith joanEXPOSED!hamilton streakers bare allBEHINDCLOSEDDOORS:THE SALARYSCANDALSUMMER FESTIVALS SENIOR ARTISTS OPEN UP BATTLE OF THE SEXESthe continental | spring 2008 1

“Extremely Homemade”Jonathan Woodward - Twisting Clay for 36 years66 1/2 Utica StreetClinton, New York 13323(315) 853-68732 the continental | spring 2008

the continental spring 2008on the cover29 power in politics96 europe on a shoestring26 summer festivals51 senior artists open up35 battle of the sexes42 behind closed doors68 hamilton streakers bare all70 at home with joanon the hill10 breaking new ground11 history of the apple12 may day controversy13 bar mitzvah millions14 cultural center15 alternative spring break17 activism on campustalk of the town18 best books you haven’t read19 metal for the masses21 buzzworthy27 future of televisionfeatures36 icollege38 a tale of two studentsstyle47 spotted48 online superlatives49 what to wear50 step by step tanning56 room contest59 mellow yellow60 closing timesociety76 date party themes76 people who like to do fun thingstravel78 life in senegal84 deutschland with drew87 incredible india92 una vita bella98 founder’s noteon contmag.com: exclusive photos, social commentary, weekly trends, and reviewsthe continental | spring 2008 3

the continentala student-run magazine based at hamilton collegeKATIE CHILDSfounder and editor in chiefAMELIA BARRYmanaging editorart directors LAURA DEFRANKdirector of photography LIZA RUECKERTfeatures editor KELSEY RICHARDSONstyle editors LAURA COOK, WHITNEY KIMMELentertainment editor NICOLE T. DIETSCHEnews editor LILY NATHANSONtravel editor MELISSA KONGsociety editor LEE SCHATZBERGadvertising directors BLYTHE WINCHESTERadvertising executives CAITLIN FENNESSEY, SOPHIA FRANCKadvertising designer SARA BRYANT, JEFF ESCALANTEaccount managers JENN ANDERSON, LINDSAY WATERBURY, TOM GILLESPIEcopy editor KAITY HILLsenior editors Nico Drohojowski, Garrett Reebwriters ALEXANDRA BOROWITZ, CELIA COAN, BRENDAN CONWAY, MAURA DONOVAN, JENNA FAIN,CAITLIN FITZSIMONS, SCOTT FLAHERTY, DANIELLE FORTIER, RACHEL FRAZIER, SARAH GOODELL, MAURA KEARNAN,AMANDA POOLER, LEIGHTON SMITH, ASHLEY STAGNER, LAUREL SYMONDS, ANDREA WEINFURTER, ALICIA WRIGHTphotographers SHELLEY HOY, JESSICA LEIBOWITZ, Alice Mann,Isabelle Mckusick, Lindsay Waterbury, Photography societycontributors ELIZABETH FARRINGTON, ALLISON GASTON-ENHOLM, ERIC KUHN, DREW LAFIANDRA, WILL LEUBSDORF,CHELSEA MANN, EMILY PALLIN, KATHRYN PLUMMER, Eric thomasfounding editor kate stinchfieldletters to the editor E-mail contmag@hamilton.edusubscriptions Visit www.contmag.com to download a subscription form.advertisers E-mail contmag@hamilton.edu or visit www.contmag.com to view our press kit.sponsors Please e-mail contmag@hamilton.edu to find out how you can support this student publication.4 the continental | spring 2008

advertise!advertise with the continentaland have your ad seen by students,families, faculty, and alumniemail contmag@hamilton.eduorvisit contmag.comfor more informationand a press kitthe continental | spring 2008 5

from the editorsHamilton prides itself in being a liberal arts school that offers adiverse range of activities to its students. This emphasis createsa student body that is hyper-involved, participating in everythingfrom the Streaking Team to Alternative Spring Break. From thecover to page 100 of this large Spring Issue, we tried to include as manystudent perspectives as possible.This issue exposes the many experiences that make life at Hamiltonunique for every student. Our readers selected five seniors from the Men’sRugby Team to grace our spring cover. Inside, the bare bodies of the VarsityStreaking Team take freedom of expression to a whole new level. Fourart majors showcase the results of a year of work on their senior projects.From India to Italy, we caught up with Hamilton students who are studyingabroad and learned how their perceptions of the world have been alteredby the experience of living in a foreign country. Comparing the differentviewpoints on campus, our article “A Tale of Two Students” brings togetherstudents with different backgrounds to talk about life at Hamilton.Clinton, New York might not be a hub of political activity, but studentshave managed to find ways to stay involved in the race that is consuming ourcountry. The role of the “Millenial Generation” is discussed in the Featuressection, highlighting the recent increase in the youth vote. Whethercampaigning or taking advantage of the Washington Program, studentshave proved that our generation is more engaged in politics and determinedto make our opinions heard.The faculty at Hamilton has joined the student body in being involved inpolitics, but lately it is school politics that has their attention. After learningthat a popular professor had received a zero percent raise for the 2006-2007academic year, we investigated and stumbled upon a scandal that has causeda stir among the faculty.The Continental strives to highlight as many Hamilton students andperspectives as possible in the magazine. We have tried our best to openyour eyes to the different Hamilton experiences, but even with an expanded100-page issue there is not enough room to include every perspective atHamilton. Enjoy.Katie Childs and Amelia BarryWe want yourfeedback on theSpring Issue!Email contmag@hamilton.edu andlet us knowwhat you think.our amazing editorial boardin thisissuestudytourFor over three decades, Hamiltonstudents have participated Road is home to Hamilton’sBuilt in 1910, 11 College Hillin the Washington Program. president. Joan Hinde Stewartgave us an insider’s tour ofDuring the semester away fromcampus, students study, take the beautiful house. See howpart in an internship, and learn President Stewart’s love of allhow to live in a modern city full things French is evident througoutthe home.of history.6 the continental | spring 2008wearWith days to go until Commencement,seniors showcasewhat to wear for every day ofSenior Week. Flip to the Stylesection to see the best outfitsfor Formal, Strawberries &Champagne, and all of the traditionalSenior Week activities.visitWhile studying abroad, AllisonGaston-Enholm ’09 strolledthrough the streets of her adoptedhome of Padova, Italyand captured the best that thecity has to offer. She sharesher favorite things in the Travelsection.

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on the coverWe let readers choose who appeared on the cover of our Spring Issue, and we couldn’tbe more pleased with the results: four fantastic covers and eleven smiling faces trulyrepresenting the diversity of our student body. Photography Director Liza Rueckert shoteach of the covers, all of which are showcased on these pages. Hundreds of readersparticipated in an online poll to select which cover they wanted, but in the end onlyone could win…The winner of our cover contest was the Men’s Rugby Team, who recently hostedNationals and had an impressive season. Seniors Andrew Gumbiner, MattLinden, Jon Milgrom, Justin Sherman, and Rich Bryan brought an easygoingattitude to our afternoon cover shoot, keeping everyone entertained whilewe shot hundreds of photos. In the end, the photograph we chose for the covereffortlessly demonstrates their camaraderie and fun personalities.8 the continental | spring 2008

the continentalspring 2008POWER IN POLITICSUP CLOSE ANDPERSONALhamiltonstudents MAKEtheir mark onCAPITOL HILLeurope on ashoestringat homewith joanMarisa Clemente ’08 and Willy Cowles ’09 were a match made in heavenfor our cover shoot. Their chemistry was so good that we joked that their photoswere more characteristic of an engagement announcement in the New YorkTimes than a magazine cover. Willy is a member of the Crew team and a WritingCenter tutor. Marisa is an English major and Comparative Literature minor. Sheworks with Hamilton Alumni Leadership Training (HALT) and is also a CaféOpus Barista.EXPOSED!hamilton streakers bare allBEHINDCLOSEDDOORS:THE SALARYSCANDALSUMMER FESTIVALS SENIOR ARTISTS OPEN UP BATTLE OF THE SEXESAdam Polonski ’08 was a natural cover model and began striking great posesfrom the moment Liza began shooting (including a few choice shots with TheDaily Bull’s satirical version of The Continental, The Hessian). Joined by MeganBrousseau ’08, the two easily bonded over the inherent awkwardness of campusphoto shoots. Adam is the Editor-In-Chief of The Daily Bull, a Writing Tutor, aStudent Assembly Representative, and part of Hamilton Alumni LeadershipTraining (HALT). Megan is a biology major, an EMT, on the women’s soccerteam, a member of ATX, works in the Oral Communications Center as a tutor,the Campus Campaign Coordinator for Teach for America, and teaches the labpractical EMT classes.the continentalspring 2008BEHINDCLOSEDDOORS:THE SALARYSCANDALthe continentalspring 2008europe on ashoestringat homewith joanEXPOSED!hamilton streakers bare allPOWER IN POLITICSUP CLOSEAND PERSONALhamiltonstudents MAKEtheir markon CAPITOL HILLBEHINDCLOSEDDOORS:THE SALARYSCANDALSUMMER FESTIVALS SENIOR ARTISTS OPEN UP BATTLE OF THE SEXESeurope on ashoestringat homewith joanEXPOSED!hamilton streakers bare allPOWER IN POLITICSUP CLOSEAND PERSONALhamilton studentsMAKE their markon CAPITOL HILLBritt Freitag ’08 and Emerson Sosa ’10 met for their first time when theycame together to shoot their cover for The Continental. Both were surprised thatthey were nominated, but the enthusiasm and charisma they showed on the shootdemonstrates why they are favorites among the student body. Britt is a theatremajor and studio art minor. She is a Senior Intern in Admissions, an AdirondackAdventure leader, Captain for Varsity Women’s Crew, and President of the ZenMeditation Club. Emerson is the Social Chair of La Vanguardia, the Social Chairof TKE, a member of the Fencing Team, an Orientation Leader and Coordinator,a Burke Library Reference Assistant, a Switchboard Operator, a POSSE scholar,and he does the Hamilton College Ropes Course.SUMMER FESTIVALS SENIOR ARTISTS OPEN UP BATTLE OF THE SEXESthe continental | spring 2008 9

on the hillbreakingnew ground infinancial aidas if the stress of applying to selectivecolleges is not enough, most competitivestudents must also take into accountthe steep tuitions of the nation’stop liberal arts colleges and Ivy Leagueuniversities. Just as there are entiresections within Barnes and Noble devotedto SAT prep books and collegeguides, there are also books devotedto strategizing against the financialatrocity that is the reality of higher education. Thankfully, financial aidofficers are working harder than ever to bring the most qualified scholarsto their institutions with the least financial impact on hard-workingfamilies. A new trend in financial alleviation is the “no-tuition” policythat several top universities, such as Harvard, have adopted.In 2004, Harvard University announced its groundbreaking financialaid initiative: any student whose parents’ income totaled toless than $40,000 would have zero tuition costs. In return, the studentsparticipate in a work study program.. An instant success, the incomethreshold was then raised to $60,000 in March of 2006. With the updatecame additional, greatly reduced tuition prices for families withinthe income bracket of $60,000 to $80,000. 26% of Harvard’s recordnumber of applicants (22,955) fell under the auspices and lower tuitioninitiatives. As Stella Lee, a junior at Harvard states, "The HarvardFinancial Aid Initiative allows low-income students to attend Harvard,but the financial aid doesn't stop once the students arrive on campus.[The school] has several programs that allow these students to integratefully into the Harvard community."10 the continental | spring 2008Two-thirds of Harvard University undergraduatesare on some form of financial aid, with anaverage package of $36,000 for the 2007-2008 academicyear. With such a high number of undergradsreceiving such an impressive amount of aid, Harvardhas tremendous financial resources. CortniNucklos, a freshman at Harvard University, pointsout, "Harvard is leading the way, and I believe othercolleges will follow suit." The university’s financialaid budget is now over $100,000,000.Several schools, namely Yale and Stanford, arecreating similar programs and setting no-tuitionthresholds. Yale has a threshold of $45,000 for notuitionand $45,000 to $60,000 for reduced tuition.Stanford’s policy is the same. As such excellent universitieslevel the playing field for students of all socio-economicbackgrounds, competition betweenschools is increasing. Will other schools cave underpressure and adjust their financial aid policies? The truth is, many are.Recently Princeton, Davidson, and Amherst all moved to end studentloans. This allows for a greater budget for scholarships and other formsof aid that hold the student less responsible for the cost of tuition.As of yet, Hamilton does not have such a discounted tuition policythat is similar to Harvard's. Yet, Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid,Monica Inzer, states, “We are committed to meeting the full demonstratedfinancial need (through grants, work-study, and student loans)of every student we enroll.” Hamilton has, however, redistributed its financialaid dollars. Starting with the soon-to-be accepted class of 2012,Hamilton will no longer offer merit-based scholarships. This decisionallows Inzer and the officers to better distribute the $21,000,000 financialaid budget among all eligible students. An average financial aidpackage of $29,000 is awarded to 50% of the students—keeping theschool socio-economically diverse.Stella Lee notes, "Harvard's newly expanded Financial Aid Initiativegives the university a considerable boost in attracting students."Adriane Medler, also a junior undergraduate student at Harvard, adds:"So many colleges have a huge endowment, and more can be done. Ithink Harvard's tuition policy is successfully expanding socioeconomicdiversity on campus." What will Hamilton do now to keep up withthe visionary policies of Harvard? A letter mailed from President JoanHinde Stewart in January to the community of students, alumni andparents expresses that to follow in Harvard's footsteps, we will "increaseour financial aid budget and make this a priority in the next capitalcampaign." In the future then, it may be likely that Hamilton will movetowards a financial aid initiative very similar to Harvard's.-caitlin fitzsimons ’11

the history of an appletraditions from hamilton and kirkland ever-present during senior weekGoing on two hundred years, the Hamilton College communityhas maintained traditions young and old. Especiallyaround commencement time, traditions at Hamilton holdunforgettable memories for the graduating seniors. For one week,seniors are given time to spend together, creating those final bonds withHamilton friends and making memories they will hopefully rememberafter all of the Senior Week festivities.Kirkland College may only hold ten years on record in the Hamiltonhistory book, but its impact on Hamilton’s campus is still celebratedthrough a strawberries and champagne picnic for the graduatingwomen and their families. Started in 1978, the final year that KirklandCollege held a commencement ceremony,Strawberries and Champagne continues to recallsome of the activities of Kirkland’s graduation,including an open mic that was once a part ofthe actual ceremonies. Organized by the femalefaculty, the picnic did gradually integrate the malefaculty of Kirkland College who wanted to honortheir female students.Another well known Kirkland-founded commencement traditionis the placing of a green apple by each Hamilton female on the podiumas they cross the stage. The ladies of the first co-ed graduating classstarted the tradition in protest to the administration’s decision todisband Kirkland College.Nancy Rabinowitz, the Margaret Scott Bundy Professor ofComparative Literature, recalls the comedic scene at graduation as thefaculty scurried on stage to remove the green apples after each woman,having been trained in how to make the apple make the greatest thudagainst the podium, placed it on the stand. The apple placing has nowbecome more of a symbol of honor towards Kirkland College than of aresistance movement, and today, senior women are given a green apple“Kirkland is part of the pastthat needs to berecognized.”-Professor Nancy Rabinowitzpin by female members of the faculty.Why such an emphasis on the traditions of Kirkland College atcommencement time? “Kirkland is a part of the past that needs to berecognized,” Rabinowitz says. She notes that without these Kirklandtraditions, there would be nothing else of the all-female institution thatdeserves more celebration.Countering the women’s picnic, Apolon ’08 has requested with theconsent of the senior week committee and office of the Dean of Facultythat the men of Hamilton College have their own event, a carved hamlunch with ale, appropriately called the Ale-Ham Lunch. In this way, themen of the college can recall the long history before Kirkland College.“The old Hamilton has vanished just assurely [as Kirkland],” Apolon points out. “Thename remains but this is not the same school asit was before.”As May quickly arrives, seniors will soonbecome nostalgic for the past years they havespent on the Hill. Assistant Dean of Students forCampus Life and Director of Student ActivitiesLisa Magnarelli ’96 recalls that senior week is a great time to reconnectwith old roommates and friends while creating a common, individualexperience to share as a class.“Senior week is bittersweet,” Brian Greenleaf ’08 says, “At somepoint in time you have to move on.” Each year new “traditions” areintroduced, as each class year has the opportunity to form its ownevents for the week. Finally, at the commencement ceremonies, eachHamilton graduate will receive his or her classic cane, uniting the classand alumni alike. When another school year officially closes, the Classof ’08 will step aside to let the bicentennial class tackle the academicrigor on the Hill.-alicia wright ’10the continental | spring 2008 11

on the hillthe may daycontroversy12 the continental | spring 2008as Paul Ryan observes, MayDay is very difficult to plan.May Day represents the outdoorunion of IMF, CAB,and WHCL, but within thisgroup lays two organizationswith different missions. IMF(the Independent Music Fund) strives to bring relativelyunknown and different musicians to campus, inorder to show students theother kinds of music outthere. CAB (Campus ActivitiesBoard), however,desires to entertain as manypeople as possible. As a result,combining the two organizationsis difficult, andthis year’s May Day is noexception.Rumors have beenflying around campus about the rift between IMF andCAB as a result of Eve 6 and Stroke 9 being the chosenbands to play this year. However, contrary to belief,IMF and WHCL have not pulled funding from theevent; IMF did not have any money to pull, and WHCLis still providing the lights and sound and hosting theBattle of the Bands.Three years ago, when The New Pornographersplayed at May Day, there was a lot of crossover for thetwo organizations, and the event was a success. However,last year, IMF booked the openers (Asobi Seksu,Wooden Wand and The Vanishing Voice to name a“People want a fun show,something where they canlet loose and hear the songsthey graduated from. If it’sgoing to be outdoors, it willbe fantastic.”few) and CAB booked Citizen Cope as the headliner.There was a lot of backlash after the event for thedifference in attendance between the openers andthe headliner. “There were only about 15-20 peoplefor the first four hours of the event,” commentedPaul Ryan. “Yet, there were between 700 and 800for Citizen Cope. We need to have more continuitybetween openers and the headliner acts.”With last year in mind, IMF, CAB, and WHCLcame out with a survey this year to determine whatbands students most wanted to come to Hamilton.However, IMF, who refused to comment for thisarticle, was not pleased with the concept of havinga survey, nor were they happy that Eve 6 won. Thesurvey, members of IMF believed, would cause studentsto limit themselves to only the bands that theyrecognized. According to Ryan, IMF wanted GhostfaceKillah and Slightly Stoopid (which came in 2ndand 3rd). An offer was put in for Ghostface Killah beforeEve 6, but Ghostface wanted more money than the MayDay budget could afford. Ghostface declined, and an offerwas then put in for Eve 6.There was another reason for not pursuing GhostfaceKillah. As Ryan observes, “This event costs about$50,000—can you really spend that much money onan event when for the first four hours no one shows up?When you’re doing this event, you should put your personalbeliefs aside.”734 students responded to the survey, in which 311voted for Eve 6, 266 for Ghostface Killah, 63 for HandsomeFurs, and 8 for Candence Weapon.One of the only reasons why Eve 6 is performing atHamilton is because of an agreement to the “90s package”with Stroke 9. Other colleges wanted Eve 6 for thesame date, but Hamilton secured the band through thispackage. Eve 6 does in fact have a new drummer, but theband maintains that they still sound the same, and thata new CD is “forthcoming.” They also have eight concertsbooked between now and May 3rd at Princeton,Washington State Universityand Sienna College, amongothers.Ryan summarizes,“People want a fun show,something where they can letloose and hear the songs theygraduated from. If it’s goingto be outdoors, it will befantastic. I’ve gotten tons ofe-mails from people askingif it’s open to the public. People are driving from over 4hours away. Students need to remind themselves, what isthe point of May Day? IMF takes risks with their shows,and some are hugely successful and others aren’t. Youhave to think, ‘how much of a risk can we take?’”IMF has attracted people and publicity for theevent, questioning why they should put in so much effortinto a concert that they don’t fully support. MayDay was founded to bring all of the music organizationstogether—but are we now past the point where it makessense to try?- ashley stagner ’09

from bar mitzvahthousands,to bar mitzvahmillionsTimothy Sykes turned the $12,415 he had been given at his Bar Mitzvah into several million. By the time hegraduated from Tulane University in 2003, he had already started a hedge fund, Cilantro Fund Management, LLCthat in 2006 was ranked the #1 Short-Bias Fund by Barclays for 2003-2006. But by the end of 2007, Sykes lost 35%of his hedge fund, and so now, at 27 years old, he wants to regain the $1.65 million that he lost. He started “TIM”(Transparent Investment Management), with the goal of repeating his original feat of turning twelve thousandinto millions. But this time, he is documenting his journey on TimothySykes.com. On May 1, Sykes debuted his newsite, which is much more than a blog. He has added Tim-TV, Tim-Radio and more. Eric Kuhn caught up with theyoung, energized investor right before the new site launched.Tim, let’s start at the beginning. You write in your book, “I have noextraordinary talents and yet I was a millionaire by the age of 22.”What inspired you to start investing your Bar Mitzvah money?I was an injured high school tennis player who had already gotten intocollege early, so I really had nothing else to do. The market was goingcrazy so I thought I’d give it a try—and everything since has been trialand error because there’s no mainstream guide for responsible financialspeculation; that is, until I got into the publishing business!You say, “The digital world has created a new frontier where it’s everyman for himself—and there are few rules.” How well do you fit intothe hedge fund and investing business?I don’t fit in, I’m not a value investor, I don’t like trading any of the mostpopular plays—big technology stocks, currencies or commodities—nor have I ever gotten comfortable with leverage. I am a short sellingpenny stock trader, ironically a combination of the three most deridedniches in all of finance (maybe that’s why they work so well together,as in negative x negative = positive). My colleagues think I’m a selfpromotingfraud, definitely due to my big mouth and all the press I’vereceived, much of it inaccurate. That’s why I’m so into blogging allthe details of my strategy and answering all questions because I havenothing whatsoever to hide. I’ll never stop promoting because this is agreat sport, which, thanks to all the snooty, narrow-minded and boringpeople in finance, isn’t as popular or respected as it should be.You are certainly not conventional. Heck, you brought models onCNBC. How do you come up with your ideas? What is your creativeprocess?I base everything I do on cutting through all the industry stereotypesand rules. Thanks to the success of the TV show “Wall Street Warriors”in which I was featured, tens of thousands of people have contacted me,mostly wanting to know more about stock trading and hedge funds. So,I basically just have to speak my mind, showing everyone how fun andunderstandable it all can be once you cut through all the BS associatedwith making money in the stock market.What features is your new site going to have?My new site will be unlike that of every other financial media outlet orblog—as it’ll be geared towards making this stuff totally transparentand more importantly, fun! TIMtv and TIMradio will be onlinevideos and podcasts, some serious, some not, but all will be incrediblyeducational without boring people to death or using highly technicalterms as is the industry habit. More importantly, TIMbucks will rewardusers for posting comments, sharing their thoughts, links, and askingquestions—this isn’t a one man show; I’m just the community director.I have little doubt that within a few years, my website will help produceanother multi-millionaire who will have benefited from my experience,but will be able to take it to the next level, making me like ArchieManning watching my sons win the Super Bowl!You want to get college students involved with, and passionate about,investing. How are you doing that and what has been the reaction?Mainly it’s just showing them they can do this from their dorm rooms asyou don’t need a fancy office, connections or a lot of money—you justneed a few thousand dollars, an internet connection and a willingnessto learn. I’m trying to get people to understand trading is great not onlybecause of its ability to create great wealth but also because it teachesgreat lessons. Surprisingly, the happiest I’ve been is when I’m in themidst of the trading process itself, not when I’m spending my winnings.This goes against superficial and inevitably harmful publications likeTrader Monthly, that encourage readers to try to make the most moneythe quickest (so they can buy soulless products from their sponsors).I’m glad my message of education first is reaching these students beforethey get turned the dark side enters the picture.What is your advice for college students who want to start investing?Students should focus on financial speculation—trading stocks, pennystocks, commodities and currency. Yes, it’s riskier, but c’mon, if youhave between $500 and $10,000, are you really going to be happy witha few hundred in annual profits—at best—in well-diversified assets?No, of course not.Your wardrobe is a robe. If we went the moneyman’s closet, how manysuits would we find?Yes, I prefer my robe, or just a t-shirt and boxers when it gets warm out,but I do have two fancy suits from my previous superficial life. Tell methis, what purpose does a tie serve? It’s always bothered me—I see it as atime-wasting accessory, prison garb for corporate drones everywhere.the continental | spring 2008 13

campus quietly debates cultural centerearly this semester at a Social Justice Initiative (SJI) CoffeeHour, the members of the SJI called on Hamilton to“demonstrate its commitment and respect for cultural andintellectual diversity” by building a Cultural EducationCenter within the next ten years. Although the Student JusticeInitiative declined to comment for this article, the proposal outlinedin The Spectator on February 2 calls for a new campus building thatwould welcome all students, but provide specific meeting space formulticultural organizations such as the Womyn’s Center, the RainbowAlliance, La Vanguardia, the Brother’s Organization, and religiousorganizations. A key component of the proposal is the creation of aDirector of Multicultural Affairs who would work directly with culturalissues at Hamilton. The building would be named after Hamiltonalumnus Bob Moses, a prominent educator and civil-rights activist.Luvuyo Mandela ’09, President of the Brothers Union, hopes thatthe Cultural Education Center would work similarly to the ScienceCenter; built for a particular group of students in mind, but welcomingto all and educating the entire student body.The SJI’s proposal has been sent to various campus offices and groups,initiating a discussion about whether a Cultural Education Center is thebest way to improve student relations and accessibility on campus. Thelack of space on campus in which multicultural organizations can meetoften causes scheduling conflicts between student organizations. Tofurther the issue, the Womyn’s Center is slated for demolition duringthe summer of 2009, leaving the organization with no specific locationin which to meet.Since the proposal is still in the early stages of discussion, manystudent groups and faculty members declined to share their personalopinions about the Cultural Education Center. Reva Narula ’10, chairof the Student Assembly Diversity and Disabilities Committee, explainsthat the Student Assembly (SA) hopes that whatever the Hamiltoncommunity decides regarding the Cultural Education Center, thesolution “celebrates commonalities rather than differences and that wecan find a way to address whatever differences there are on campus.”Some members of SA, such as Greg Ray ’08, who was the SAFacilities Committee chair for three years and is currently involvedwith the Strategic Planning Committee, wants the SJI to work directlywith the SA in order to flesh out the details of the proposal and receivethe backing of the SA. Ray points out that the SA, which representsthe entire student body to the administration, has been involved inother major campus construction projects and was instrumental in theearly discussions about the ELS renovations. While Ray is the first toagree that the student government system can be confusing and not allstudents feel represented by the SA, he reminds students that they alwayshave the opportunity to become involved in student governance. Mostimportantly, the SA publishes the minutes of their weekly meetings,providing an open discourse with students, something that is currentlylacking about discussions regarding the Cultural Education Center.There are several other issues, regarding the actual Cultural EducationCenter proposal that are necessary to explore. First, the multiculturaland minority groups will be housed in the Cultural Education Center,but the rest of the student organizations will be in the new ELSStudent Union. It is unlikely that this marginalization of minoritygroups will create an inclusive atmosphere on campus, a specific goalof the SJI’s proposal. One Rainbow Alliance member notes that theCultural Education Center “would give students the opportunityto hide from whatever problems they might have with the larger14 the continental | spring 2008“We have at Hamilton apattern of trying to solveproblems by putting up orrenovating buildings.”-Professor Daniel Chamblisscommunity if they so choose, and this is a luxury [that students] willnot have in the real world. The center could be isolating, regardless ofits location, if students perpetually use it as a retreat.”On the other hand, Margaret Scott Bundy Professor ofComparative Literature Nancy Rabinowitz believes that the CulturalEducation Center, while not inclusive of all student groups, “mightencourage dialogue across groups that are now rather separate.” Thesame Rainbow Alliance member quoted earlier, torn on the subject,agrees with Rabinowitz’s views, stating that “the headquarters of thevarious multicultural organizations are currently scattered and poorlyorganized, and sharing a single building would help manifest theircommon plight.” This conflict of sympathies demonstrates the campus’difficulties in making a decision.The second issue that arises regarding the Cultural Education Centeris how a new building will improve the cultural climate on campusand help recruit and retain multicultural students. Eugene M. TobinDistinguished Professor of Sociology Daniel Chambliss fears that “wehave at Hamilton a pattern of trying to solve problems by putting up orrenovating buildings” and it would be better to first figure out throughinclusive campus-wide discussions if the Cultural Education Center isthe best solution before jumping to a multi-million dollar constructionproject. Furthermore, Ray points out some of the logistical issues thatthe proposal does not address. For example, the location is important.Two solutions propose using either the current location of the Afro-Latin Cultural Center or the 3 rd floor of Bristol. However, neither ofthese are highly trafficked areas on campus and perhaps will not givethe Cultural Education Center the prominence it deserves.Furthermore, many students and professors have noted that a newor renovated building will not be enough to welcome multiculturalstudents on campus; there has to be a budget behind the building thatwill support programming on multiculturalism for the entire Hamiltoncampus. Amy Tannenbaum ’10, a member of the Womyn’s Center,hopes that multicultural organizations will be able to pool their financialresources in order to promote multiculturalism and provide relevantprogramming for the entire Hamilton community. Ray suggests itmay be more successful to spend money on diversity initiatives such asrecruiting and retaining multicultural students and faculty rather, thanan expensive building.Without a doubt, the Student Justice Initiative is correct that studentsof minority groups need to feel more welcomed and included on campus.We can also be thankful to the SJI for repeatedly bringing diversity issueson campus to a forefront, most recently with their proposal for theCultural Education Center. However, there are more issues regardingboth the cultural climate on campus and the SJI proposal than can becovered in one article, so before any decision can be made regardingthe Cultural Education Center, we need to have an open and inclusivecampus wide discussion with students, faculty, and administrators to seeif such a center is the best solution for all Hamilton students.-laurel symonds ’11

alternative spring breakhamilton students makeuse of their spring breaksto reach out to helpothers in needfor some Hamilton students, spring break is notjust a break from upstate New York snow, butalso an opportunity to help those in need. Thisyear, sixty-six students volunteered to spend aday or two in a jitney and travel down Southto help with various causes. And, at only $125per trip, ASB is also a great opportunity to seeanother part of the country. Any participantwill tell you it was worth every dollar and everymile. This year, four groups traveled during thefirst week of break, and another two groups went during thesecond week.I led a group of eight students along with co-leaderCuffie Winkler ’10 on an environmental service trip inTennessee. The group worked at Cumberland Trails tohelp with the development and maintenance of trails in thepark. Emily Johnston ’10 and Meghan Herman ’09 led anoutreach trip with eight other girls to Wilmington, NorthCarolina, where they tutored children at a local elementaryschool. There were also two construction-based trips thefirst week. Kat Kenney ’08 and Mikhail Bell ’08 led a groupthe continental | spring 2008 15

of eight to Hands On Gulf Coast in Biloxi, Mississippi. HandsOn rebuilds the community as a whole so the group got to work ona range of projects from painting and dry walling, to planting gardensand working in local community schools. Taylor Brady ’08 and JustinMulvey ’09 went with ten other students to John’s Island in SouthCarolina to work with Habitat for Humanity.On the second week, another trip worked with Habitat forHumanity, but this time in Thibodeaux, Louisiana. Maura Donovan’09 and Julian Brody ’10 drove down with eight other volunteers towork in a housing development that was created with donations madeby Oprah Winfrey and Jon Bon Jovi. Finally, there was one group ofstudents who traveled to Kentucky to Land Between the Lakes inGolden Pond. Leaders Ben Van Arnam ’09 and Rachel Bigelow ’10worked on the national recreation area with eight other volunteers intheir group.Why would these students spend an entire week of spring breakto volunteer and help others? For those who went to Louisianaor Mississippi, some believed that not enough was being done forHurricane Katrina victims. In Thibodeaux, Hamilton students wereable to work alongside families who would be living in the very housesthey were helping to build. They also got to see houses that hadalready been built and were being used by deserving families. Biloxi,Mississippi was one of the hardest hit areas during Katrina, but it issometimes overshadowed by New Orleans proper, and relief effortsthere, or anywhere, would not exist if it weren’t for the generosity ofthose who volunteer their time. Hamilton students who participatein ASB know how important and rewarding it is to be a part of thisrebuilding process.Even more, if you talk to ASB participants, they’ll tell you that it’sa blast. Sure, you put in a lot of hard work during the day, but thenthere are the trips to restaurants in the surrounding area, as well asopportunities to meet the locals and even nearby Hamilton alums.For those volunteering on the Gulf Coast, a trip to New Orleans isalways on the itinerary. Even with ASB’s no drinking policy, the tripdown Bourbon Street is quite entertaining. After work, members ofthe Thibodeaux group often played basketball or football with thelocal children. One night, the other volunteers at the site got togetherto barbeque dinner for the entire group. Meeting other volunteers andhearing about their experiences also inspires students to continuegiving back, even after they return to school. And, after spendinganywhere from twelve to twenty-four hours packed into a jitney withten other people, you are bound to make some friends. AlternativeSpring Break gives Hamilton students the chance to strengthen theirown community by encountering people with common interestswhom they may never have had the opportunity to meet otherwise.- maura kearnan ’0816 the continental | spring 2008

activism aliveand well athamiltonIn an election year, it seems as though every political event is viewedunder a red or blue light. This divisive atmosphere can be frustrating.On the Hamilton campus, however, there are plenty of opportunitiesto get involved with political issues in a non-partisan capacity.Over the past year, representatives from many student activistgroups have come together to create the Student Action Forum. LauraWright ’10, the SAV representative, believes that the “forum has provento be an efficient tool in inciting action by allowing many groups to hearof what others are doing and by providing a forum for collaboration.”In the fall, the action forum helped students get transportationto war protests in Syracuse and New York City. They also arrangedon-campus protests against the death penalty and demonstrations insupport of the Jena Six. One of their most successful campaigns wasgetting one hundred and fifty signatures in opposition to LockheedMartin’s involvement in an ethics workshop on campus.This spring has also been full of events. Democracy Matters,Students Against Violence, HEAG, and Amnesty Internationalcooperated to put together a Social Justice Week from April 12 throughthe 18 It started off with a showing of Do The Right Thing, a SpikeLee film, in KJ. Scheduled events were a sidewalk chalk expressionismday by Students Against Violence and a voter registration drive byDemocracy Matters and the Hamilton College Democrats. Tables wereset up by SAV, STAND and Amnesty International to get signaturesfor petitions and distribute information on Guantanamo Bay andTibet. Democracy Matters and HEAG both sponsored movies duringthe week. Finally, the week wrapped up with a midnight vigil for thesoldiers killed in Iraq.Wright explains that one goal of Social Justice Week was to “reachstudents who might not notice individual events by framing manycauses in the context of a week of general awareness.”After Social Justice Week, there are many chances for involvementon the Hill right through the end of finals. HEAG ’s Green Week fromApril 28-May 2 includes farmers’ markets, an afternoon of work on theCommunity Farm Garden, and a Concert for Clean Elections and aClean Environment with Democracy Matters.Democracy Matters will also be working on a huge voterengagement drive called Hamilton Engage ’08. Group leader KevinRowe ’10 hopes “to encourage students not only to vote in the 2008election, but more importantly...to create a civically conscious andactive campus at Hamilton.” Amnesty International will continueits campaign to close Guantanamo Bay; the group hopes for 200signatures before the end of the semester. They are also working oncollaborating with the Womyn’s Center to raise awareness of women’srights across the globe.Even though Hamilton’s non-partisan activism may not be asnoticeable as election debates, it is still very strong, and groups likeAmnesty International, HEAG, STAND, Democracy Matters and SAVcontinue to encourage students to stay involved. Maybe we don’t livein a bubble after all.-maura donovan ’09the continental | spring 2008 17

talk of the townbooksthe best booksyou (probably)haven’t read yetThe River Why by David James DuncanPhilosophically enlightening and yet deeply humorous,brilliantly written, yet unpretentious. This book changes theway you think about fishing.The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knightsby John SteinbeckBased on Malory’s Le Morte d’Artur, this novel was neverfully finished, though its incompletion adds to its charm andultimately its cynicism.Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close byJonathan Safron FoerThe lesser-known novel from Foer (after Everything isIlluminated), this story follows a young, highly intelligent boywhose father died in the World Trade Center attack. Ratherthan dramatic, it is instead subtly affecting through Foer’sunusual sense of humor and use of multimedia in the pagesof the novel itself.Space Trilogy by C.S. LewisThe Eli to The Chronicles of Narnia’s Peyton, the SpaceTrilogy is often underappreciated. Following a human captivewho is launced into space and intended as a sacrificial victimon another planet, the novels combine spiritual quandarieswith well-known science fiction tropes.A Prayer for Owen Meany by John IrvingThough Irving’s humor (largely sexual) and subject matter(New England and sex) can get redundant, this is arguablythe best example of his work.Master and Margarita by Mikhail BulgakovA black, man-sized cat named Behemoth, a naked witch, andPontius Pilate. And it used to be banned. Need any otherreason to read this book?Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End ofthe World by Haruki MurakamiThe two halves of the title refers to parallel storylines thatalternate in every other chapter. Not only is it a book thatmakes you rethink the way your mind works, but it’s fun totry to figure out how the two stories fit together.Geek Love by Katherine DunnYes, that is “geek” as in “one who bites the heads off chickens.”This novel is told from the point of view of Oly, an albinohunchback, as she grows up with her circus performingfamily: Elly and Iphy, the conjoined twins, Alphy, half-manhalf-fish, and Chick, whose special powers cause him moreharm than good. Fantastically grotesque, endearingly sinister,Dunn’s novel will haunt as well as touch.- kaity hill ’0918 the continental | spring 2008

talk of the townmusicmetalfor the massesThe line outside of the Armory in Rochester waited in tense,anxious excitement for the doors to open and Rockstar Tasteof Chaos to start. There is a good chance that the anxietywas driven by the cold, but that didn’t prevent anyone fromwaiting patiently to be allowed inside. In fact, there were somany people there to see the show that the Wendy’s a quartermiledown the road pulled out their rent-a-cops to make sure no concertgoerswere parking in their parking lot.Rockstar Taste of Chaos has always lived up to its name, and this yearwas no exception. Created four years ago by Kevin Lyman as the wintercousin of the annually successful Warped Tour, Rockstar Taste of Chaoswas created to bring together bands outside the usual Warped Tourformat—something with a little harder edge to it. Absolute pandemoniumensues every night in the form of violently swirling bodies, flying shoesand crowd surfers. There are rarely hard feelings, even if someone getspunched in the face. If you’re there, it is understood that you are there forthe same reason as the other five hundred plus people in the room—themusic. Strangely enough, it is the teenagers who are the best behaved atlarge-scale events like this. The only people I’ve ever seen start any sort ofargument are the twenty-something dudes who had a little too much todrink.So what does chaos taste like, exactly? Sweat, mostly. There is a pointat a concert where you can no longer listen with your ears. The decibellevel reached is so loud that sound bypasses your ears and resonatesthrough your frontal lobe and chest, sending your heart thumping madlyin time with the kick drum and your breathing into overdrive. This is theonly proper way to listen to rock music, and in the gutted interior of theArmory, Taste of Chaos achieved that brain-rattling volume. A six-hourmetal-fest, this year’s RToC featured some of the best in today’s metal andmetalcore bands, including headliners Bullet for My Valentine, Atreyu,and Avenged Sevenfold—all of whom have brand new material to testout in front of a live, writhing crowd.Originally called Jeff Killed John, Bullet For My Valentine has beenactive since 1997, and their newest album, Scream Aim Fire debuted atnumber four on the Billboard 200. BFMV is comprised of four angryBrits—Matt Tuck on vocals and guitar; Michael “Padge” Paget on guitar;Michael “Moose” Thomas on drums; and Jay James on bass—with abad habit of shooting their mouths off. The band was kicked off of anAmerican tour with Rob Zombie after Tuck commented on the BFMVmessage board about poor tour conditions. Scream Aim Fire, the band’ssecond studio album, is “a lot more up-tempo, a lot more aggressive”according to Tuck. The new single, “Waking the Demon” hit radiothe continental | spring 2008 19

airwavesin America inApril.Atreyu received apositive response to their newmate r i a lfrom their most recent release, Lead Sails Paper Anchor. Thisalbum, which is more melodic than the band’s previous albums, sentthe crowd into satisfied rounds of violent dancing, particularly whenlead vocalist and drummer Brandon Saller demanded that the crowdshake their asses to “Falling Down.” Not exactly the same breed ofmetalcore riffs and guttural screaming as BFMV, Lead Sails PaperAnchor is a successful foray into the type of metal-tinged musicthat is making a comeback in the mainstream. A Metallica for ourgeneration.It has been two years since Atreyu—drummer/vocalistBrandon Saller; vocalist Alex Varkatzas; guitarists Dan Jacobs andMarc McKnight; and bassist Travis Miguel—has been on the RToCtour, but they were clearly itching to get back. Jacobs claims in arecent interview with Alternative Press that their newest album lendsitself to a more powerful live show that will translate well in the large,arena-sized venues RToC uses. It’s clear that Lead Sails Paper Anchorwas well-received at RToC because Atreyu recently announced thattheir participation on this summer’s Projekt Revolution tour. Whilefans got to see some of Atreyu’s tricks while on the Taste of Chaos,prepare for only bigger and better ones this summer as they rockthe Revolution Stage of Projeckt Revolution before big names likeLinkin Park and Chris Cornell.Avenged Sevenfold has recently released their self-producedfourth studio album, Avenged Sevenfold. Any time a band releases aself-titled album, it is a signifier that they believe that the music createdfor that album is what the band is all about. How does AvengedSevenfold—vocalist M.Shadows, guitarists ZackyVengeance and SynysterGates, bassist Johnny Christ,and drummer The Rev—feel about this assumption?“I think what we wantedto accomplish and achievewith this album that we didwas to break open any kindof pigeon hole wide openand incorporate all sorts of styles of music that we love,” says ZackyVengance, a guitarist for the band. “And, you know, just [be] verybrave.” He says that sometimes their sound is misinterpreted, butthat they can’t be categorized into one genre: “Realistically, we’re somuch more than that.” Judging by the reception from the crowd,their audience understands this.20 the continental | spring 2008“I think we always have been[brave, but] realistically, we’reso much more than that.”About the tour, Zacky also says, “I’m really excited for everyone of the shows because the ticket sales have all been really strongand knowing that thousands of kids are going to show up to see uson a show that we’ve alwayswanted to do and talkedabout doing.”While today’s metal andmetalcore bands are certainlynot like anything else fromearlier days, it’s clear to see theinfluence. Bands like Bulletfor My Valentine, Atreyuand Avenged Sevenfold arethe love-children of theirpredecessors and the current cultural phenomenon that is bringingmetal to TRL, video games, and prime-time television commercials.If you listen carefully, you can hear classic metal riffs, punk-tingedlyrics and the commentary of a new generation of kids who are readyto kick music in the teeth and look good doing it.- nicole dietsche ’09

talk of the townnicole dietsche ’09 uncoversthe most anticipatedentertainment releasesfor the summerbuzzworthythe continental | spring 2008 21

talk of the townStar Wars: The Force Unleashedrelease date - September 16systems - Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, PS2As Yoda would say: Jedi you are and new physicsprogram you explore. You use, obviously,the Force, to do some serious damage to thebad guys.Ninja Gaiden IIrelease date - June 3system - Xbox 360As the sequel to…coincidentally, Ninja Gaiden,the game is more of a prequel as it focuses on ayounger version of Ryu Hayabusa as he learnsthe nuances of butt-kicking.Guitar Hero: On Tourrelease date - June 22system - Nintendo DSBecause if you can’t go for more than a fewhours without some rock’n’roll, bring it withyou.video gamesRock Bandrelease date - June 22system - WiiNow all of you who have a Wii can play alongtoo, flailing your way into virtual rock godhood.Guitar Hero: Aerosmithrelease date - June 29systems - Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, PS2This is MTV Games and Harmonix’s attemptto make Guitar Hero look less like Rock Band’sneglected younger brother who no one lets outof his room.top pick: grand theft auto 4Hide your children and run in fear, gentlefolks; the latest installment of the highly controversial Grand Theft Auto series was recentlyreleased—April 29, to be exact. The new entry in the series promises a return to Liberty City, the game’s original setting, which hasn’tbeen seen since GTA 3 debuted in 2002 followed by GTA Vice City in 2003 and GTA San Andreas in 2004. While GTA IV actuallyreduces the overall area of land available to the players, it purportedly adds much more vertically, with players being able to ascend tallbuildings which, in prior installments, were closer to background pieces than to actual interactive buildings.The main storyline of GTA IV centers around Niko Bellic, a character recently come to America following the promise of money.Of course, nothing quite works out for Niko, and he winds up having to slog his way through the criminal underbelly of Liberty City inorder to achieve his American dream.The game will feature all the classic GTA elements, such as carjacking, destructible environments, a plethora of weaponry, andplenty of random passersby for you to…interact with. It of course expands many of these features, including a more complex carjackingsystem, a new cover system for gun combat, a refined system for drive-by shooting, and overall enhanced visuals.The truly interesting part of the coming of GTA IV will be in how it is received, politically. The GTA series has often been criticizedas being the primary inciter of youth violence in the video game world, with how it grants the player the ability to kill any given on-screencharacter at any given time. It has especially been criticized by well-known video game critic Jack Thompson, who has called the games ofthe series “murder simulators”. Will GTA IV be received by the opponents of violent video games with much wind and fury, but withoutmuch practical effect? Or will GTA IV have enough controversial content to finally help the anti-video game lobbyists get a video gamelegislation bill past the Supreme Court?I certainly hope not.- brendan conway ’0922 the continental | spring 2008

musictop pick: weezer10 YearsDivisionrelease date:may 13things to know: 10Years will be doingsome serious touringon Projekt Revolutionthis year, so it may bea good idea to checkout the new albumbefore it explodes andyou’re left behind thebandwagon.talk of the townScarlettJohanssonAnywhere I LayMy Headrelease date:may 20things to know:She’s an actress. Canshe sing? I’m not suremy ears have properlyprepared themselvesfor this.Dresden DollsNo, Virginiarelease date:may 20things to know: Asthe follow up to Yes,Virginia, the DresdenDolls once againoffer up prayers to thepunk-cabaret gods forthis release, which willhopefully live longerthan Amanda Palmer’ssolo project.release date: june 24Remember the good old days of Weezer when it was allabout hash pipes, sweaters and pink triangles? Well, hopefully,with the band’s return to their traditional album-naming (TheBlue Album, The Green Album), their sixth studio album, TheRed Album, will make us forgive Weezer for Make Believe andmake us forget Alone: The Home Recordings of Rivers Cuomo alltogether.Weezer has had a lot of difficulty as a band. Ignoring the factthat Rivers Cuomo is apparently hell-bent on remaining mysteriousand separating himself from the rest of the members of theband, Weezer has had a tumultuous experience in the limelight.The Blue Album, Weezer’s first album was so well receivedin 1994 at the height of the emo movement (these days, it’s allabout post-emo) that when the darker Pinkerton was released afew years later, fans were thrown into a crazed fit. Ultimately, thealbum was deemed one of Rolling Stone’s worst albums of 1996,but ironically is one of Weezer’s best-selling albums. Oh, thefinicky ways of fans.After a bit of a hiatus, Weezer released the extremely successfulGreen Album (home to “Hash Pipe” and “Island in theSun”) and their worst album to date, Maladroit. In 2005, Weezerreleased Make Believe, which can be summed up with a ‘meh.’The only memorable song off the entire album, “Beverly Hills”was vaguely reminiscent of earlier Weezer material, but with lessedge. It did, however, earn the band its first Grammy nomination,so it’s hard to completely hate the album.While fans have been waiting for Weezer’s new material, frontman Rivers Cuomo has graduated from Harvard, gotten marriedand supposedly become a father. How will this affect The RedAlbum? No one knows for sure yet, since Cuomo is extremelysecretive, but the album was produced by Rick Rubin (Red HotChili Peppers, Beastie Boys, Justin Timberlake). Cuomo, has,however, announced two song titles: “Ms. Sweeney” and “I’m theGreatest Man That Ever Lived.” The first single from the album,“Pork and Beans,” has premiered on California’s KROQ and isnow streaming from Weezer’s official site.If “Pork and Beans” is any indication, The Red Album hasdefinite kick backs to the early days of Blue and Green, whileincorporating the good parts of Pinkerton and Make Believe. Itsounds like Weezer is ready to deliver.- nicole dietsche ’09JourneyRevelationrelease date:june 3things to know: It’sJourney. That’s aboutit.UsherHere I Standrelease date:may 27things to know:It’s Usher, and it’s unlikelyhe’ll disappoint,especially if he’s beendoing lots of push upsand sit ups in his timeoff.Queen & PaulRogersTitle TBArelease date:september 1things to know:IT’S NOT QUEENWITHOUT FRED-DIE! That said, itcould be good.the continental | spring 2008 23

Sex and the City: TheMovierelease date - May 30Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall,Cynthia Nixon, KristinDavisCarrie, Samantha, Miranda andCharlotte are back togetherdoing sexy things in New YorkCity.go see it if: You like… um…Sex and the City.Dark Knightrelease date - July18Heath Ledger, ChristianBale, Michael Caine, MaggieGyllenhaalBatman, Harvey Dent andJames Gordon versus TheJoker… ’nuff said.go see it if: You like Batmanor miss Heath Ledger.Indiana Jones and theKingdom of the CrystalSkullrelease date - May 22Harrison Ford, Shia LaBeouf,Cate BlanchettDoes this even need an explanation?Indiana Jones (Ford) needsto go save the world from oneartifact of doom or another, thistime a shiny skull, and is accompaniedby a sidekick or two, thistime his son (LaBeouf ).go see it if: You like actionmovies, any Indiana Jones movie,and/or Transformers.moviestop pick: ironmanThe Iron Man movie is coming to theatres May 2, and it lookswonderful. The movie trailers have all been very well received, possiblybecause of the great special effects and the well-done action scenes. Butpersonally, I’m betting that it’s because Robert Downey Jr’.s portrayal ofTony Stark, the alcoholic billionaire inside that fantastic suit of red andgold, is nothing short of hysterically wonderful.In the comics, Tony Stark’s character has changed many times. Atone point, he was the brooding, dark figure with the weight of the worldon his shoulders, desperately trying to break his alcohol habit but unableto do so. Then he was the exuberant playboy reveling in his shallowlifestyle. The latter portrayal has shown up most recently and most fullyin the Ultimates, a series of comic books acting as a re-envisioning of theMarvel Universe.While the dark and brooding Tony Stark isn’t inherently bad, theexuberant playboy is just more fun. And fortunately, most of the moviesmade of the Marvel universe so far have been more in keeping with theUltimate universe than with the original, somewhat more campy sourcematerial. The Tony Stark of the Iron Man movie looks to be the shallow,quipping character that we know and love.In terms of the plot, the movie focuses on Iron Man’s origin: TonyStark being kidnapped and forced to make weaponry, only to create thefirst incarnation of the Iron Man armor instead. After that is where it getsa bit fuzzier. Iron Man has never been a character known for his villains,but according to the Internet Movie Database, Jeff Bridges is playingObadiah Stane, aka Iron Monger. While I would like nothing more thanto simply say this movie is wonderful and leave it at that, the villain-issuedoes have me somewhat worried. After Spider-Man 3, in which an overabundanceof rather poorly characterized villains ruined what could havebeen a good movie, I am wary of the effect that a poor choice of villaincan have on a superhero movie.In the end, I think it’s safe to say that more than most superherostories, Iron Man is about the hero, not the villain. Judging by the magnificentclips of Robert Downey Junior’s portrayal of Tony Stark, I feelrelatively safe in saying that I have high hopes for this movie.- brendan conway ’09Made of Honorrelease date - May 2Patrick Dempsey, MichelleMonaghanTom (Dempsey) decides hemight actually be able to swingthe monogamy thing when hisbest friend Claire (Monaghan)gets engaged and asks himto he her ‘maid’ of honor. Ofcourse he agrees in order towoo her.go see it if: You like chickflicks, Grey’s Anatomy, or weddings.24 the continental | spring 2008

tv on dvdtalk of the towntop pick:psychseasons 1& 2If you have never watched Psych, you are seriously deprived. Playfully mocking crime dramas, Psych is centered on Shawn Spencer( James Roday), who uses his photographic memory, “heightened observational skills,” and detecting instincts to convince people he’s psychic.In the pilot episode, he does such a good job of convincing the police that he’s a psychic that he is roped into being a consultant for the SantaBarbara Police Department.The show, which premiered on USA network after Monk, has recently been moved to NBC because of its extremely high ratings. Psychis successful for a number of reasons. First of all, the show premiered on a cable network, which often airs its new shows during the majornetworks summer rerun slump. Also, the show is well-cast and the chemistry between characters is phenomenal. Dulé Hill (formerly ofWest Wing) plays Shawn’s best friend, Gus, who is often unwillingly dragged along on cases; Timothy Omundson plays the head detective ofthe police department, Carlton “Lassie” Lassiter, who hates Shawn with unbridled passion; and Maggie Lawson plays Juliet O’Hara, Lassie’spartner and ultimately Shawn’s love-interest. Corbin Bernsen tops the line-up off as Henry Spencer, Shawn’s angry and disapproving fatherand former police detective.If this wasn’t enough to make you want to watch the show, it is so well written that you find yourself laughing so frequently that you reallyshouldn’t eat or drink while watching: Shawn’s response to his father’s multi-colored, multi-print shirt: “Sorry, Dad, this is like a genocide ofcolor. Somewhere, a rainbow is weeping.” And it’s not just one-liners either. The writing is intelligent and witty and it’s definitely one of thebest television shows on right now.Psych has something for everyone: murder, comedy, mystery, intrigue, singing, and psychics. It pokes fun at everyone and everything,and now is the perfect time to catch up as the show starts its third season on USA in July. Plus, the DVD features special features such as webisodesof “Little Shawn and Gus” (animated episodes of the two characters as children), blooper reels and deleted scenes.- nicole dietsche ’09The 4400 Season 4release dateMay 64400 people, who havebeen abducted by aliens, arereturned to Earth variousyears later with new supercool powers that scare thebuhjeezus out of good olenormal people.Monk Season 6release dateJuly 8Anal-retentive and OCDdoes not even begin to coverMonk’s dysfunctions, but hedoes get the detecting jobdone.Weeds Season 3release dateJune 3Because there’s really noother way to survive suburbianhouse-wifery thanbecoming a pot dealingkingpin.The Dead ZoneSeason 6release dateJune 3Based off of the StephenKing novel (but potentiallybetter), Johnny Smith cansee the future with just onetouch (after getting in a horriblecar crash and being in acoma for years) and tries tosave those he sees in danger.Burn Notice Season 1release dateJune 17When the CIA fires you, apparently,they also kill you.Michael Westen tries to findout who burned him so hecan, well, kill him first.the continental | spring 2008 25

talk of the townsummer music guideWhat could possibly be better than standing outside getting a sunburnand seeing some of your favorite bands play live, on the same stage?Still thinking? Throw in a little aloe vera and you’re pretty much set.Here’s all you need to know to make the tough decisions.LollapaloozaAugust 1 – 3, Chicago, IL$TBAwww.lollapalooza.comCreated in 1991 as a farewell tour by Perry Farrell, lead singer for Jane’sAddiction, Lollapalooza collects the best in alt-rock, hip-hop, punk andwhatever else people like and sticks them in one place. Often cited asthe Woodstock of the 1990s, Lollapalooza also does dance, comedy,and crafts.notable line-up: Radiohead, Nine Inch Nails, Rage Against the Machine,Flogging Molly, Miley CyrusBamboozleMay 3 – 4, East Rutherford, NJ$49.50 (single day)www.thebamboozle.comEvery year, over a hundred bands flockto New Jersey to play on the same stage.Genre is no problem as thousands of fanscrowd into the Medowlands for a weekendof sweat, sun and music.notable line-up: Snoop Dogg, Paramore,Panic at the Disco… and ahundred moreSasquatch Music FestivalMay 24 – 26, Quincy, WA$56.50 (single day) -$154.50 (three day pass)www.sasquatchfestival.comHeld in the Gorge Amphitheatre,voted Pollstar Magazine’s bestOutdoor Music Venue, SasquatchMusic Festival plays host to possiblythe best Memorial Day Weekendfestival with acts spanning fromcomedy-rock to indie to classicalt-rock.notable line-up: The National,The New Pornographers, R.E.M.,Flight of the ConchordsBonnarooJune 12 – 15, Manchester, TN$209.50 - $244.50 (four day pass)www.bonnaroo.comFour days of music in the middle of a field inTennessee, with alumni such as The Policemake this show a must-see if you can swing thepricey tickets as well as some sort of sleepingplace. Bring a tent.notable line-up: Pearl Jam, Metallica, ChrisRock, My Morning Jacket…and dozens more.26 the continental | spring 2008

talk of the townthe future of televisionInternet. Television. Between the two of them, they pretty muchhave the market covered on your spare time. But with advancesin streaming time and the cost of producing a television showeach increasing exponentially each year, what can be said aboutthe mixture of the two? What about internet TV?There are a few different ways of looking at internet television.First, we have the age-old (and by age-old I mean abouta year old) practice of watching yourfavorite shows from NBC, CBS and ABC onthe respective websites. It’s handy and takescare of those nasty commercials. Score onefor the corporations keeping in control, butthat’s not quite what I’m getting at here. Theonly ways in which that’s really revolutionaryis that it means you don’t need a TV to watchTV. Pour the champagne.Second, then, is YouTube. I love YouTube.I could write sonnets to YouTube. But in andof itself, YouTube isn’t really a form of television. It’s more like a reallylong episode of America’s Funniest Home Videos, without the commercials,but plus some really creepy stuff. Plus, even here, copyrightedcontent sneaks in. YouTube has a tendency to host anything except forporn, which leads to a lot of illegal scans of TV shows and movies. And,well, funny as YouTube is, it’s not really known for its scripted content.I can watch every episodein order whenever I want,without waiting for a marathon,and the only othershow that lets you do thatis Law and Order, but that’sjust a fluke.Which brings me to number three, scripted internet content.That’s right, there is television on your internet. Sure, it may not be thatgreat, but it’s there. The best example of scripted content which wouldordinarily be on a television network is the show Quarterlife. It’s a sortof soap opera about being in your mid-twenties. It’s melodramatic andangst-y, and since the longest episode is about eleven minutes, ridiculouslyaddictive. All you have to do is load up a couple and start watching,and before you realize it, you’re hooked.You can’t help but cheer every time Jed givesDylan a puppy eyes look. Plus, every episodeis right there for you. Right. There.And that is why the internet actuallymakes a fair point here. Let’s face it. Televisionhas all the good content: Lost, House MD, Heroes,How I Met Your Mother, etc. What theinternet has is archiving. Quarterlife may be acraptastic show, but I can watch every episodein order whenever I want, without waiting fora marathon, and the only other show that lets you do that is Law andOrder, but that’s just a fluke.We may need to give the internet some time to get its act together,but it’s getting there. I mean, what’s not to love? Every episode available,you don’t have to buy a TV, and after all, there’s always YouTube.- rachel frazier ’09the continental | spring 2008 27

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featuresfrom hill to hillhamilton students aremaking their mark on thatother hill - interning,volunteering, and makinga name for themselves inamerica’s capitalthe continental | spring 2008 29

featuresthe millennial generationkathryn plummer exploresthe power of the youth voteYoung people’s participationin politics has radicallyshifted since the 1960s,as has the way in whichpoliticians and the mediaregard them. Mediaorganizations, politicians,and political scientists haveaccused today’s American youth of politicaldisengagement, and blamed them for theoverall decline of voter turnout in past decades.And, for the most part, these accusations aretrue.Voter turnout among the youth in the1980s and 1990s was the lowest amongst allother age groups. During those decades, theyouth turnout rate remained at an average of35 percent, withunder 21 beingthe lowest,while olderg e n e r a t i o n saveraged about20 to 30 points higher. Fortunately, however,this long tradition of disappointment seems tobe changing with the rise of Generation Y, orthe Millennial Generation.The Millennial Generation, today’syouth, includes citizens who are born between1979 and 1997, aged 17 to 29. In 2006, theMillennial Generation was about 75 millionstrong, with 42 million eligible to vote. In30 the continental | spring 20082015, it is projected that this generation willbe about one-third of the U.S. electorate.Currently, they rival the size of the BabyBoomer Generation.Political scientists, reporters, andpoliticians alike agree that there is somethingdifferent about this generation’s civicengagement levels and attention to politics.After the Millennials became the majority ofthe youth vote, there has been a large increasein voter turnout among the youth. In 2004,more than 20 million 18-19 year-olds voted,an eleven percent increase from 2000. Duringthe 2006 midterm elections, the youth groupturnout increased by 24 percent.Along with increased voter turnout, 68percent of college students have reportedto follow political news closely. The newgeneration is not only more interested inpolitics, but more mobilized and heading tothe polls.In the 2008 election, candidates havenoticed the increased participation rates andhave decided to implement Youth OutreachPrograms. Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton,and John McCain have all made efforts toreach out to the Millennial Generation.Barack Obama, who is favored by Millennials,has made this group the main focus in hiscampaign.Some of the new tactics that thesecandidates are using include implementingface-to-face interaction, specifically targetingthe needs and concerns of the youth, goingto local colleges and high schools, utilizingthe Millennials as volunteers, and usingnetworking resources such as Facebook andMySpace to educate and energize.These tactics have proven successful,according to the Super Tuesday exit pollsfor the Democratic Primary. In every state,the percentage of 17-29 year old voters hasincreased compared to the 2004 DemocraticP r i m a r y .The Millennial Generation is not only more interested in politics,but more mobilized and heading to the polls.A d d i t i o n a l l y,exit pollsshow that theM i l l e n n i a l sh a v econstituted an average of 14% of Democraticprimary voters, up from a median of 9% in theset of comparable contests in 2004.The Millennials have proven to be moreengaged and active in politics and voting. Dueto the size and shifting trend of the Millennials,they will continue to be very influential in this2008 election and monumental in elections tocome.

featurescapital cityone of the common complaintsyou will hear from students onthe Hill is that we are too isolatedfrom the real world in the “bubble”of Clinton, New York. But forover three decades, Hamilton hasoffered students the opportunityto spend a semester experiencingpost-graduation life off the Hill inthe nation’s capital.For some students, the Washington, D.C. program is a majordraw before they even arrive at Hamilton. Matt House ’08 says, “I firstlearned about the D.C. program as a prospective student. I was fairlysure I would be a government major at Hamilton, and it was one ofthe school’s draws for me.” Blake Hulnick ’09 was also consideringthe program as a prospective student. He explains, “I had heard greatreviews from program alumni, some of whom are my parents’ age sincethe program has been around for a long time.”During the program, students spend“It’s an experiencethat you can drawupon for the rest ofyour life, no matterwhat career fieldyou go into.”four days a week as full-time interns forpoliticians or government agencies and oneday a week in an academic seminar with aHamilton professor who relocates to D.C.Despite the busy schedule, students are leftwith free time and no shortage of ways tospend it. Hulnick has “seen almost all of theSmithsonians several times—includingthe Postal Museum, though it is a goodcure for insomnia.”Through the program, students alsohave incomparable opportunities to formconnections that will benefit them after graduation. House assertsthat his first post-graduation job came as a result of living in D.C. for asemester. “In addition to interning for my future employer,” he says, “Imet [Capitol] Hill staffers who have moved on to other political workin all parts of the country.”However, the enticing sample of independent life in Washington,D.C. is first and foremost for the students in the program. Studentsspend a semester seeing how it will feel to live in an apartment, ratherthan a dorm, and balance free time with a full-time job. Jordan Hummel’09 explains that “living in an apartment, working four days a week andbalancing school—it’s a slight taste of the real world...It’s an experiencethat you can draw upon for the rest of your life, no matter what careerfield you go into.”-celia coan ’09the continental | spring 2008 31

featuresthe roadmap for iraqThe Responsible Course for IraqIt isn’t necessary to rehash the whole comedy of errors leading upto Iraq War. It’s clear that the Bush Administration lied and misledthe American people about the rationale for the invasion. It’saccepted that the administration’s conduct in the early days of theoccupation was the very definition of incompetence, and turnedthe Iraqi people against us. It’s a statistical fact that the life of the averageIraqi has gotten worse since the invasion, from unavailability of powerto declining health standards. The real issue is what we do next. Dowe stay in Iraq for several more years, even 100 years, as presumptiveRepublican nominee John McCain suggests? Or do we withdraw andforce Iraqis to take responsibility for their own country?Republicans argue that George W. Bush’s Surge strategy is working,that we shouldn’t get out because finally we are winning. This isn’t true.While our troops have managed to reduce violence in some areas ofIraq, the fact is the rate of violence in Iraq is incredibly high, still aroundthe “unsustainable” level of violence of 2006. In any case, the real goalof the Surge wasn’t to temporarily reduce violence. The Surge wassupposed to create space for Iraqi leaders to resolve the Sunni and ShiiteThe Democratic party recognizes thatthere are no good solutions for Iraq;only bad and worse ones.civil war, which they haven’t done. There’s been no progress in resolvingthe political problems at the heart of the Iraqi civil war, and thereforethe current reduction in violence will not last. Right now, the situation32 the continental | spring 2008in Iraq is beginning to unravel, and the only reason the situation isn’tworse is because of the political intervention of Iran. The fact that we’redependent on Iran to maintain Iraq’s stability shows the illusionarysuccess of the Surge.Meanwhile, our armed forces are strained to the breaking pointbecause of the lengthy deployments needed to maintain troop levels.Troops are required to spend more and more tours in Iraq, with manysolider having their contracts of service extended against their willunder the stop-loss policy, leading to a drop in re-enlistments. Themajority of the army’s available manpower and equipment is tied up inIraq, decreasing our flexibility to respond to other emerging threats. Thesimple fact is if they don’t get out of Iraq soon, we’re going to severelydamage our military’s ability to respond to multi-national threats likeAl Qaeda.Many argue that we should stay in Iraq to fight terrorist groupssuch as Al Qaeda, but that argument ignores the very nature of theinsurgency. Over 90% of insurgents are Iraqis, not the foreign fighterswho comprise the majority of Al Qaeda members. The goals of mostinsurgents have nothing to do with global jihad; rather they are focusedon using violence to resolve internal ethnic grievances. Al Qaeda inIraq, even at its peak, was about 2-5% of the insurgency, and todaythat number is even less because Sunnis cracked down on them andeliminated most of Al Qaeda’s bases in the Sunni triangle. This illustratesthe fundamental truth about the war: we cannot win it, only the Iraqiscan.The Democratic Party recognizes that there are no good solutionsfor Iraq; only bad and worse ones. The only way to resolve this conflictis through political, not military, solutions. Sunni and Shiite leaders inIraq must be forced to resolve their civil war and take responsibility forstopping sectarian violence and providing security for their people. Aslong as our troops are there, Iraqi leaders will avoid reconciling andtaking control of their own security. Along with a stronger diplomaticeffort in Iraq, both within Iraq and with Iraq’s neighbors, withdrawingis really the only reasonable way we can end this war. The DemocraticParty’s stance on Iraq is based on one simple idea: be smarter and morecareful getting out of this mess than we were getting in.Will Leubsdorf ’10 is president of the CollegeDemocrats.

featuresas the war in iraq heads into its fifth year,both parties search for the best way forwardStay the CourseWednesday, 9 April, marked the fifth anniversary of thefall of Baghdad. For over a year, the administrationhas implemented Operations Fardh al-Qanoon andPhantom Thunder, collectively known as the Surge.General David Petraeus, who leads these efforts,testified before Congress on Wednesday alongside the AmericanAmbassador in Iraq, Ryan Crocker. Together they delineated theprogress attained in the area: unprecedented legislation regardingamnesty, budget, de-Baathification, and the electoral process; decreasedinflation and an impressive 7% economic growth rate; dramaticallyincreased participation of Sunni leaders in the security efforts andprovincial elections; and 90% drop in ethno-sectarian violence.American casualties have likewise dropped by 70% since June 2007.In the words of Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-CT), “Gen. Petraeus returns toWashington having led one of the most remarkably successful militaryoperations in American history. His antiwar critics, meanwhile, facea crisis of credibility—having confidently predicted the failure of theSurge, and been proven decidedly wrong.”Untenable as protests of the Surge’s ineffectiveness may be,they are far from silenced by the successes Petraeus has consistentlyattained. Many Democrats bemoan the lack of instantaneous solution,preferring instead to misremember Iraq as a country of great peaceand prosperity before the invasion. There is no “crisis of credibility,”as there is no imagination, however fertile, which can create thesemblance of credibility in the first place. The historical precedentsfor long-term military presence to ensure stability and developmentare too many to enumerate here, but Japan and South Korea serveas notable examples. American presence denotes neither continuedviolence nor ever-escalating casualties; the current effort intends toallow for the emergence of an organic system of government, approvedand instituted by the Iraqi people and temporarily entrusted to foreignassistance.Sen. Richard Lugar (R-IN) recently observed, “The debateover how much progress we have made in the last year may be lessilluminating than determining whether the administration is finallydefining a clear political-military strategy.” Petraeus has indeedelucidated a strategy with characteristic candor and pragmatism.Before Congress, he requested a 45-day period to evaluate the progressof the troops; this period ensures greater prudence and circumspectionthan a hasty withdrawal, and permits adaptability to the ever-changingcondition of those on the ground. A withdrawal policy operating ona strict timetable lacks the flexibility so critical to effective militaryoperation; it prohibits capable leaders like Petraeus from performingtheir duties optimally and fails to account for the unstable conditionsin Iraq, which could necessitate measures currently beyond our abilityto prognosticate. With unblinking frankness, Petraeus informedthe members of Congress that “progress, while real, is fragile andreversible.”This frankness remains unmatched by Democrats: Clinton says itmay or may not be irresponsible to leave the troops in Iraq, abandoningher initial support of the conflict, and Obama suggests he would approveprolonged occupation if success meant “no traces of al-Qaeda and nopossibility of reconstitution, a highly-effective Iraqi government, [and]a democratic multi-ethnic, multi-sectarian functioning democracy.”He pledges to remove the troops within 16 months while admittingthat America has the “responsibility to try to make it work as best wecan.” Presumably our best effort requires no more exertion than anunrealistic 16-month period can contain. The contradictions inherentin political stances that simultaneously undercut our military progressand lament its lack of rapidity need no further remarking.It is readily apparent that withdrawal nowwould result in civil war, despite significantimprovements.In passing this notable anniversary, we acknowledge how muchour multinational forces have accomplished—the eviscerationof recognized threats to global security, the deposition of SaddamHussein, and advancement against al-Qaeda’s powerful Iraq branch.Moreover, as Newt Gingrich reminds us, “Any judgment we makeabout where we are and what we must do in Iraq must be conditionedby the courage and commitment of those who have volunteered toprotect us.” It is readily apparent that withdrawal now would resultin civil war, despite significant improvements. Therefore, let us notendanger the safety of countless Iraqis and dishonor the valiant effortsof those, American and otherwise, who have given their lives there bywillfully testing the reversibility of our hard-won victories; and let usnot be content with adherence to “a messy, sloppy status quo” Obamaseeks to cite in support of a precipitant withdrawal. Let us insteadcontinue to aim, under our skilled leadership, for a stabilized Iraq and along-term solution. Let us “cling to our guns” if with them lie the hopesof those Iraqis venturesome enough to envision their nation withoutdictatorship and ethno-sectarian violence.Elizabeth Farrington ’10 is vice president of the RepublicanClub.the continental | spring 2008 33

up the close millennial and personal generationstudents experience washington, dcand the world of politics firsthand through internshipsWith the election season in full swing, there has been animpressive swell in participation among the youngergenerations. Here at Hamilton, many students havetaken it upon themselves to become involved with the electionsby working on the candidates’ campaigns. From starting groupsto support the candidates to actually interning in the candidates’offices, students such as Mariam Ballout, Alexandra Lawson, andMatt House have been extremely busy.Alexandra Lawson first got politically involved when sheinterned for Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick’s Office ofConstituent Services and the Senator’s Congressional Office.When Lawson spent this past fall semester abroad in WashingtonDC, she decided to get involved with Senator Clinton’s campaign.While working on the campaign, much of her work was dedicatedto what she called “visuals.” Lawson and a group of volunteers wouldgather in a particular location with signs supporting the candidate.Lawson was also involved with a great deal of canvassing. Shesays that this was one of the most rewarding parts about working onthe Clinton campaign because she personally was able to interactwith people and listen to their concerns about the issues that weremost important to them.Mariam Ballout first decided to get involved with the Obamacampaign after his keynote address in 2004. Since then she hasbecome the president of Students for Barack Obama at Hamilton,made a Facebook group in his support, and participated in a 3-daytraining session with Obama’s field director in New York.One of Miriam’s favorite memories from working on thecampaign was canvassing in Milwaukee. She and her partner,a student at NYU, spotted a street called “Hope Avenue.” Theygathered the entire group, and a few minutes before the polls werestarting to close ran through the streets screaming “One MoreBlock for Obama!” Many people started following and beepingtheir horns of their cars in support.“It was an empowering, heartfelt moment that none of us willever forget,” said Ballout.Matt House has been involved with Senator Biden’s campaignever since he interned at with the New Hampshire DemocraticParty last summer. Most of the activities that House was involvedwith were press-related. He arranged interviews for the senator,wrote press releases and emails to supporters, and pitched storiesto the press. For House, the best part of working on the campaignwas that he was working for someone that he really believed in.“It was great to have some small part in it, even if the campaignnever got off the ground politically,” said House.Lawson, Ballout, and House all agree that their involvementin their individual campaigns were some of the most rewardingand influential moments of their lives. They aspire to continue inpolitics, and hopefully they will encourage others to help make ourcountry a better place.-danielle fortier ’1034 the continental | spring 2008

featuresbattle of the sexeshigher grades. more graduates. greater success among women.can the boys keep up?When I was applying to colleges two years ago, I made thirteencampus visits, completed ten applications, and took the ACTsfive different times. With my college counselors, I weighedmy likelihood of receiving admittance into each school, consideringeverything from my GPA to the impact that playing field hockey forthree years instead of the preferred four will have on my admittance. Iwas no longer looking for that perfect fit; instead, I was simply lookingfor any fat envelope to slide through the door and settle my nightmaresabout living at home for the rest of my life.This anxiety was almost unheard of for women around the timethat the Kirkland and Hamilton Campuses merged together in 1979.This merge was a landmark move symbolizing the union of men andwomen in academic equality. Who would have thought that almost 30years later, it would be the boys who are struggling to keep up? Likeother liberal arts schools across the country, Hamilton College receivesmore female applicants than males, and actually struggles to maintaina boastful 50/50 male to female ratio. Upholding this ratio denies orwaitlists overqualified female applicants in favor of less qualified maleapplicants.Since 1982, women have surpassed men in graduation rates. In2004, 58 percent of all bachelor’s degrees belonged to women. Somestudies even predict that by 2020, 156 women will receive B.A.s forevery 100 men. Furthermore, two-thirds of colleges report that theyreceive more female applicants than males. But females aren’t justapplying to schools in greater numbers, they are dominating oncethey get there. Studies also show that women get better grades, partyless, study harder, and are more involved on campuses and collegecommunities nationwide.So why are these wonderfully accomplished women deniedadmission instead of less qualified men into some of the nation’selite schools? Sadly, maintaining that 50/50 male to female ratio isincredibly important. Once a school bends towards the 40/60 genderratio, the school immediately becomes less desirable. Even hardworkingfemale students aren’t willing to sacrifice social lives for good academicstanding. All it takes for a prospective student to refrain from applyingto a school is the realization that there are 20% less of the opposite sexand thus must exert 20% more effort into satisfying the hormones onthe weekends.As men keep slipping behind women in college graduationratings and grades, some people express concerns that females won’t beable to find suitable partners, as the numbers might soon require thatthe majority of women find a mate inferior to her academically. Evenas females have progressed academically, our social standing has notimproved; society is still locked in the frame of mind that males mustbe smarter, more successful, and more accomplished than their femalesspouses. Only time will tell if we’re ready for a female-dominatedbusiness world, supported, rather than driven by, men.-andrea weinfurter ’10the continental | spring 2008 35

featuresiCollegechelsea mann argues that advancedtechnlogy has made the collegeexperience more virtual and isolatingCollege as America used to understand it is coming to an end.From my opinion as a current college student at Hamilton, I blametechnology. Cell phones, ipods, and social sites like Facebook andYoutube are destroying the sense of community on the college campus.I know, because I’ve watched students’ infatuation with these deviceslead them to choose the company of their computer screens andearplugs over that of the physical eyes and ears of their friends. Howare students to be activists when technology prevents them from beinga student body?One obvious sign of the resulting fragmentation caused bytechnology is in dorm life. The dorm lounges around which sociallife used to revolve are now quiet and abandoned today. Where arethe students? They’re on the phone. They’re surfing the net. They’redownloading music. They’re texting their friends. They’re everywhereindividually, but no where collectively.It is because of technology that college as America used tounderstand it is coming to an end. Once upon a time, the Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defined college as “College: a group of personsconsidered by law to be a unit.” Unhappily ever after, however, collegebecame more appropriately referred to as iCollege: a group of isolatedindividuals virtually connected and considered thus by law to be a unit.So welcome to iCollege, an institution founded by technologicalcomponents that have wreaked havoc on the relationships amongstudents. In order to fully understand its impact on college social life,we will analyze a couple of bricks that went into the establishment ofthe iCollege that prevails today.Contributor number one: Facebook.com, the anti-social network.As a sophomore, I conducted a survey for an article I wrote for TheSpectator entitled “The College Facebook Frenzy.” According to itsresults, 31 percent of the 281 participants reported checking Facebookup to six times a day, with a smaller handful admitting to nine checksper day. I was no different; the site lulled me beneath its spell. I felt as if Ihad become the Internet mother to a community of Facebook childrenwhose status I was constantly compelled to check. When I’d look at theclock, I’d realize that, during the time I’d spent on Facebook, precioushours had passed during which I could have been attending to moreacademic work or to actually connecting with friends in person.According to the free-thoughts survey section, Hamilton studentsreasoned that the opportunity to stay connected with friends throughFacebook outweighed the consequences of using the site, such as itspotential to hinder academic success or career opportunities. Therewas no awareness that “friending” on the screen detracted from thesubstance of the relationship and potentially left people more friendless.This is what is to be expected from the assumption that viewingrecent photos, statuses, and wall posts of friends on Facebook qualifiedas a substantive relationship.At the end of the day, Facebook and other social sites like Youtubeand Myspace have done more than “poke” its users. They have turnedus into addicts, snoopers, and hermits. So collegians are less likely to becollegial—they never congregate. They may be on the same page, butthey are never in the same room.Contributor number two to iCollege: ipods, out of tune with theworld. Although I love music, I don’t love when ipod listeners choose itover my company. Perhaps if I owned one, I’d feel differently. But as ofnow, I would never want one. Living unplugged has enabled me to seethat a student’s ipod fever is more than musical: it’s socially isolating.This is not to say that I am always against them. When I exercise, I oftenborrow headphones to help motivate my elliptical workouts with fasttempomusic or pop in a CD to pass the time on long plane rides or caroutings.During my time at school, though, I have noticed a startlingnumber of students going about their day with white earplugs attachedas if they were an accessory intended to be worn until bedtime. At times,I wanted to ask my peers, is this really necessary? Must you really listento music while walking to and from class or eating in the dining hall? Iam starting to miss the opportunity to talk to people on my way to classor to the stranger standing behind me in the food line. Just last semester,I encountered a boy from my Sociology class listening to his iPod whilepreparing a salad next to me in the dining hall. He proceeded to strikea conversation with me without removing his earplugs. Awkwardly, Istruggled to recount my weekend in a loud voice, competing with theGreen Day music blasting from his ears.There are many more ways in which students can be consideredrude for plugging up their ears. On countless occasions, I have said“bless you” when students sneezed in the library to receive no thankyou,or shouted their name while they were walking up ahead to receiveno response. Why no answer? They couldn’t hear me. Their ears wereplugged. But how was I to know their hooded ears were hiding a pair ofiPod earplugs? For all I knew, they were ignoring me. If only studentswould unplug their ears and let me in.Technology is the reason why college campuses have lost theircentrality in the broader place of society. Students have become so busybehind the screen that they’ve faded from the public scene as activistson campus. If students continue to capitulate to technology’s spell,the world as America used to understand it could come to an end. Inaddition to iCollege, we could have an iWorld on our hands.36 the continental | spring 2008

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a tale of two studentslightsider. darksider.freshman. senior.local. international.features editor kelsey richardson gathered pairs of students withdiffering perspectives to compare their hamilton experiences.can opposites attract?38 the continental | spring 2008

featureslightsider meets darksidereve stevens & katherine kobaHamilton College may be known for its overall community feel,but in truth, it has two distinct communities. Confirming the existenceof these two unique sides of campus, Hamilton Admissions has gone asfar as to forbid the use of the terms Lightside and Darkside on campustours. Split by the main campus crosswalk, these two sides of campushave much more than separate names—they boast different studentsand their own vibe. To truly flesh out these Lightside/Darksidedistinctions we recruited Lightsider Eve Stevens ’09 and DarksiderKatherine Koba ’08.Familiar with each other already, Eve and Katherine joked andlaughed throughout the shoot. Rendezvousing at the decidedlyLightside Science Center, the two first discussed the stereotypicalunderstandings of the Lightsider and the Darksider. Without muchhesitation, Katherine characterized the two as “grungy hippies”and “clean preppies” to which Eve agreed. But is the stereotypeaccurate?The two seem to think, that for the most part, they are. “I feel thestereotypes are true and I like that,” Eve said. Katherine added that shethinks the Darkside characterization is especially accurate. “It is moreself selecting than the Lightside—a lot of freshman get put on theLightside,” she said.Eve and Katherine bonded over their appreciation for both sidesof campus, stereotyped or not. “I always feel that I fit in on both sides prettywell,” Eve remarked. “I can identify with either (stereotype) sort of althoughI actually don’t identify with the Lightside identity quite as much.”Katherine agreed, hesitant to identify herself solely with one sideof campus. “All my friends basically live on the Darkside. That’s thekind of people that have typically made up my circle of friends so Iguess I have to identify with it at the end of the day.”The two then shared many favorite things from each side of campus.Both admit that they love hanging out in the Darkside suites. “They area great social construction,” Katherine said. “The common rooms are soconducive to spontaneous activity. Its nice to have that space when youwant to throw a party but don’t want to trash your room.”On the Lightside, Eve confessed that she loves the Chapel and thetwo agreed that the new Science Center has been great for the campus.Both Eve and Katherine confessed, too, that they love long walks in theGlen. Finally, Katherine added that she enjoys the waffle ceilings of theDarkside.Ultimately, both overwhelming agreed that the Lightside/Darkside distinction was great but did not much matter. “I really like theaverage personality of the average Hamilton student,” Eve commented.“Everyone is easy going and I really like that.”As for Admission’s anxiety over the Lightside/Darkside lingo, Eveand Katherine think that it’s ridiculous. “I think [avoiding the termsLightside and Darkside] is developmentally disabled—can I say that?”Katherine laughed. “Why hide it?” Eve concluded. “It’s great—justlike Star Wars.”the continental | spring 2008 39

freshman meets seniorrd eisenhart & jack priorThere is a popular belief that four years in college converts studentsinto adults. Apparently, dragging your butt to class every day and sharingyour bedroom with a stranger teaches you what you need to know aboutthe real world. If this is true, Hamilton’s senior class should be a wealthof knowledge to underclassmen. We recruited outspoken senior JackPrior and receptive freshman RD Eisenhart to test this theory.Meeting in the busy Diner, Jack and RD were chatting and jokingaround almost immediately. Jack took it upon himself to lead thediscussion interview style, admitting that as a senior intern, these werethe kinds of questions he wishes he could ask. First he started out withthe basics. He asked RD about his potential major (world politics witha concentration in international law), his living situation (Dunhambasement), and his feelings about freshman year. RD’s response to thislast question was short and sweet- “great and exciting.”Jack and RD went on to find unlikely bonds over embarrassingfreshman moments. Turns out both of them suffered through theexperience of being EMTed. “That was a rough night for me,” RDadmitted. Jack, agreeing, laughed as he remembered crying andrepeating, “I don’t want to die” en route to the hospital. “The worstpart,” he commented, “was that my friends had written all over me.”The unpleasant memory launched Jack into an advice givingsession—some serious, and some not so serious. First on the list is “wearshower flip flops.” Admitting that he pees in the shower almost daily,Jack stresses that it is a college necessity. More seriously, however, Jackrecommends that RD “try as many things as possible that are sociallyacceptable at Hamilton before you leave.” Much of the crazy stuff youcan get away with on campus,” he comments, won’t be appropriatewhen “you’re twenty five and living in your parents’ basement.”Then there was one final question from RD—are you ready toleave Hamilton? Admitting that he “doesn’t even want to go home forthe summer,” RD wonders how Jack feels about leaving in just a fewweeks. “I always thought at 20 or 21 that I’d be more mature and haveeverything together,” Jack remarked, “but I don’t.” He has plans to goto Boston for school and get an apartment with his girlfriend. “All thismakes me feel older than I am.”Turning to RD, Jack concluded: “Four years at Hamilton has mademe much more comfortable with myself—I hope I’m ready for whatcomes next.”40 the continental | spring 2008

featuresall-american meets south americananthony carello & mariana vinacurWith the buzz of diversity discussion on campus this year,there has been new attention paid to the experiences of Hamilton’sinternational students. While Hamilton’s student body becomes morediverse each year, there are still concerns that the campus environmentis not as welcoming to some students as it is to others. We decidedto investigate this issue by going to the source—Hamilton studentsthemselves. We brought Mariana Vinacur ‘09 from faraway Argentinaand Anthony Carello ‘09 from nearby Syracuse together to comparetheir unique experiences as members of the Hamilton community.Having met their freshman year in Dunham, Mariana andAnthony chatted with ease throughout their meet and shoot. Theywere quick to reminisce on both the exciting and awkward memoriesfrom their first year at Hamilton. Mariana first reflected on her bolddecision to forage so far from home.“I was the only one that left from my high school,” she toldAnthony, and had “never visited Hamilton before I applied... I was like,‘Why not?’” she laughed.Anthony, on the other hand, “applied to all schools near by.” “Iwanted to stay close to home but also wanted to be far enough away todetach myself, too,” he explained.Despite their unique experiences in getting to Hamilton, bothagree that freshman year is difficult for everyone. “We were all newfreshman year,” Mariana commented. Anthony admitted that it hasbeen a lot easier for him to come here knowing that he can visit hisfamily whenever he wants. “I actually go home pretty often,” heremarked, “and it’s nice because my parents get to see me play in mysoccer games.”While Mariana admitted to missing home often, she does not feelthat being from Argentina has hindered her experience at Hamiltonin any way. “It is exotic to say I am from Argentina,” she laughed.“Sometimes people think I am lying.” She does recognize, however,that having been to the U.S. before has been a major help. “I have ahouse in Florida,” she explained to Anthony. “That made my transitionmuch smoother.” The best part of being from far away, according toMariana: “I get to bring my friends home to Argentina and I love that.”While their perspectives on Hamilton are quite different,Anthony and Mariana discovered that their love for the school isvery much the same. “Hamilton has such a good blend of academicsand community,” Mariana said. “A lot of places can get you a goodeducation but everyone here looks for friends and something that willlast beyond Hamilton years.”“Hamilton has a great community feel,” Anthony agreed, “muchbetter than if you were to go to a big state school.” And while Anthonysees his family “pretty often” and Mariana much less so, both havecome to see their friends on campus as family.“I have great friends at home,” Anthony explained, “but it’s justnot the same as living with people everyday. You get much closer withpeople here.” Echoing Anthony’s sentiment, Mariana said, “I think ofmy roommate as my sister.”Despite their differences, the two feel very comfortable here atHamilton. “As corny as it sounds,” Anthony remarked, “Hamilton is ahome away from home.”“Hamilton is a home away from home,” whether you are originallyfrom Central New York or Argentina.the continental | spring 2008 41

featuresbehind closed doorsby katie childs ’08Bob Paquette is not a man of few words. He is well-known on campus for being outspoken,defined equally by his boisterous personality and his intellect. It is not surprising thatPaquette—a tenured history professor at Hamilton—has been outspoken about one issuethat faculty hardly ever talk about publicly: salaries. Last spring, Paquette received hisannual salary letter but there was something absent from the letter … a raise. In a letterdated May 25, 2007, Dean of Faculty Joe Urgo wrote to Paquette, “Bob, despite your publications in2006 and your efforts at teaching effectively, I cannot see clear to increasing your salary in 2007-2008.While we were disappointed in the outcome of discussions surrounding the Alexander Hamilton Center,it is incumbent upon us all to handle such disappointments in a professional manner.” These wordsset-off discussions amongst faculty about the policies and processes surrounding salary determination,and the reaches of academic freedom. In the process, an interesting mix of faculty banded together,leftover animosities over the failed Alexander Hamilton Center (AHC) were revealed, and studentswere once again left in the dark about what’s really going on at Hamilton behind closed doors.42 the continental | spring 2008

Determining SalariesSalaries are based on three factors: teaching, scholarship, andservice. During the spring semester, faculty members write a selfevaluationand a personal statement that they submit to their departmentchairs. The chairs read the reports and write assessment forms for eachfaculty member in his or her department. Typically, the Dean will meetwith chairs to discuss the reports before determining raises, but there isno formal procedure or requirement to meet with chairs. “I met withthose chairs where I had questions,” said Urgo, although he did not meetwith the chair of the history department. Salary letters were previouslynot reviewed by the president; last year, however, President Joan HindeStewart reviewed each salary letter. Raises for the 2007-2008 academicyear ranged from zero-to-seven percent, with most faculty membersreceiving a three-to-four percent raise.“Salaries are recompenses,” said Stewart. “We try to reward merit,so there are going to be tough decisions and relative decisions to bemade.” Salary letters are sent out at the end of May and include thefaculty member’s raise for the upcoming academic year and a shortmessage from the Dean of Faculty, although many professors describedtheir letters as vague and the reasoning less than transparent.The Exception...?In the spring of 2007, Paquette predicted to his co-founders ofthe newly-founded Alexander Hamilton Institute, Professors JimBradfield and Doug Ambrose, that he would not receive a raise inresponse to his vocal criticismsof the administration about theAHC. At the time, Bradfield andAmbrose laughed it off. “I toldhim he was crazy,” said Bradfield.“My view was that the College justwouldn’t do that thing. And I wasdead wrong.”Based on the three criteria for determining salaries—teaching,scholarship and service—it is difficult to understand why Paquettewould be one of the few singled out for a zero increase. His classes arepopular and he receives positive evaluations from students. “In 27 yearshere, maybe on two occasions I have cancelled a class. My studentsknow I am in my office seven days a week,” said Paquette. “So it’s clearlysomething else that bothered them.” Paquette has also been consistentin his publishing and is respected for his research. This leaves only thethird criterion—service.Urgo claims that service (or lack thereof ) was one reasonfor Paquette’s zero percent raise. He believes Paquette actedunprofessionally during the debate of the AHC charter. The failedAHC has taken form in the Alexander Hamilton Institute in the villageof Clinton. In the aftermath of this debate, the administration was facedwith resentment from conservative alumni who supported the Centerand the resignation of one of the College’s most loyal trustees, CarlMenges ’51, who now financially supports the AHI. Paquette was thechief architect of the AHC and the failed attempt to bring it to campusleft him bitter and frustrated with the administration.Urgo, Paquette, and Bradfield met on August 16 and again in thefall to discuss the reasoning for Paquette’s zero percent raise. Paquettealso submitted six requests for a fuller explanation of how his salary wasdetermined. On each account, Paquette felt Urgo dodged the issues andcould not specifically state what actions were deemed unprofessional.Urgo contends that he supplied Paquette with plenty of answers andthat Paquette is just unwilling to hear them. “Often people say they’renot being told something when really they just disagree,” said Urgo.The Zero Percent RaiseA zero percent raise is highly unusual. “It’s all very strange becausethis sort of thing never happens,” said Professor Jay Williams ’54.“The zero was meant to provide achilling effect.”-Professor Bob PaquettefeaturesZero-percent raises are usually given in an effort to warn anunderperforming faculty member. But as Williams noted, “BobPaquette has not gone to sleep. He is very active. Why would youpunish him?”Urgo maintains that a zero percent raise is not a punishment, buta standard, although many faculty members disagree. “A zero percentraise in this economic situation functions as a pay cut and it is a prettyserious step to take,” said Professor Margaret Gentry. “Whatever hehad done in terms of scholarship or teaching seemed to be trumped byconcerns about his relationship with the College. I’m concerned thatone area of one’s professional life erases the teaching and scholarship.”The Role of CollegialityIn 2006 Dean Urgo published an article entitled “Collegialityand Academic Community” in Sympoke. Collegiality is buzzwordamongst higher education circles, relating to the cultivation of positiverelationships among colleagues. Examples of collegiality includeserving as an effective advisor for students and being respectful ofother professors. Paquette’s outspoken nature has at times run againstthe ideas of collegiality among his colleagues and the administration.Although these personal differences are rarely discussed publicly, it iseasy to see why collegiality would come into play in this instance.Urgo recognized that collegiality was becoming a fourth pillarin personnel and salary decisions at some schools, but believes thatcollegiality should be incorporated within the three main factors forsalary determination at collegeslike Hamilton. Still, the faculty isdivided on this issue: “One of thesticking points of collegiality, isthat there are no criteria for whatgood collegiality is and what badcollegiality is,” said ProfessorRobin Kinnel. “Even if it ismeasurable, it would come after teaching and scholarship.”The basic role of collegiality is accepted by most faculty members,but its ties to salaries are new and somewhat unsettling. “Urgo is thefirst to raise these kinds of issues in a salary letter and somehow tie alack of collegiality to pay raises,” said Professor Tim Elgren.“I don’t think being critical of the administration or Board ofTrustees constitutes non-collegiality,” said Williams. “If we’re not freeto criticize the Dean when he does something wrong, Heaven help us!We’re in real trouble then.”Faculty SupportNews of Paquette’s zero percent salary spread through the facultyduring the summer and fall of 2007. “It just seemed puzzling to thesenior faculty that were there that Paquette would get a zero raise,especially in the wake of his conflict with the administration becauseit looks punitive,” said Professor David Paris, who previously servedas Dean of Faculty. By November, a group of 17 tenured professorshad gathered to informally discuss the allocation of a zero percentraise.Supporters of Paquette include a diverse sampling of the faculty,who are mostly drawn together for the sake of principle rather thanpersonal reasons. “The amazing and amusing thing to me is that thisincident has brought together the most conservative and most liberalfaculty members,” said Williams.“Bob [Paquette] and I rarely agree on anything politically, but I certainlywould never approve of anyone being penalized for being outspoken,” saidProfessor Esther Kanipe. “I believe in freedom of speech.”The 17 senior faculty members met with Urgo on December 17for almost two hours, but everyone walked from the meeting unsatisfied.“We gave the Dean every opportunity to answer our concerns, and hechose not to,” said Elgren.the continental | spring 2008 43

featuresHamilton HistoryHamilton’s recent history has highly influencedtoday’s campus climate, making it impossible tounderstand this new salary incident without taking a tripdown memory lane. “Hamilton is a deceptive lookingschool,” said Professor Bonnie Urciuoli. “It looks like abeautiful place and it looks simple, but it’s complicated.”In 2002, the Womyn’s Center invited Annie Sprinkle,a self-described prostitute-porn star turned sexologist, tocampus for a lecture on sex toys. Paquette protested thelecture, stating that it violated New York State obscenitylaws. “Academic freedom is not an absolute,” statedPaquette in a September 25, 2002 interview with theAssociated Press. “I would have to conclude that thisadministration is both intellectually and morally vapid.”Later that same year, a faculty member discoveredPresident Eugene Tobin had plagiarized some of hisspeeches and Tobin subsequently resigned. “The Boardof Trustees likedTobin very much and they didn’twant to lose him,” said Urciuoli, who noted that someboard members are said to have strong views about thefaculty members that brought Tobin’s plagiarism to theforefront.In 2004, the Kirkland Project for the Study ofGender, Society, and Culture invited Susan Rosenbergto teach a writing class entitled “Resistance Memoirs:Writing, Identity, and Change.” Rosenberg was a memberof the radical Weather Underground, and was in the midstof serving a 58-year prison term for weapons possessionwhen President Bill Clinton pardoned her in 2001. Aftervocal criticism of Rosenberg on the Hill and off, shestepped down from the appointment.A few months later, scandal would again rock thecampus. The Kirkland Project invited Ward Churchill,a professor at the University of Boulder, to speak atHamilton. Professor Ted Eismeier did a simple Googlesearch on Churchill and discovered that Churchillhad written an essay that compared the victims of theattacks on the World Trade Center to “little Eichmanns.”Everyone from New York Governor George Pataki to FoxNews personality Bill O’Reilly weighed in on the incidentand the event was eventually cancelled due to securityconcerns.In 2006, Paquette, Bradfield, and Ambrose introducedthe charter for the AHC with enthusiastic fanfare and support fromthe administration. During the fall of 2006, however, debates over thegovernance structure for the Center derailed the project.Paquette’s account of Hamilton’s recent history is summarizedin his article, “The World We Have Lost: A Parable on the Academy,”which is published in the May 2008 issue of The New Criterion. Inthe aftermath of the disintegration of the AHC charter, Paquetteclaims he was viewed as “intransigent, paranoid, perhaps even mentallyunstable.” In response, Paquette states that “paranoia means irrationalfear. Hamilton College’s recent history, he points out, makes his fearseminently reasonable.”Next StepsMost faculty members interviewed for this article stressed theneed for more communication between the faculty, administration,and Board of Trustees and a greater degree of transparency. “Theinstitution is a work in progress that requires good communicationamong all parties,” said Kinnel.Ward Churchill’s invitation to speak at Hamilton in 2005 wasa lesson in academic freedom. Above, a student signs aposter supporting the Kirkland Project.At the March faculty meeting, the faculty passed a motion by avote of 69-20 to have the Academic Council report to the faculty nextyear on the process for sanctions related to salary decisions, as stated inthe Faculty Handbook. “If anything comes out of this, hopefully it’s thatthe administration has learned that this is a very dangerous thing to dobecause it does have consequences which are not good,” said Williams.The Ripple EffectsNot surprisingly, receiving no raise for the 2006-2007 academicyear has done little to silence Paquette. “To think that a zero will inany way silence me is laughable,” said Paquette. “The zero was meantto provide a chilling effect, but I can make up the difference with twospeeches about the Alexander Hamilton Center. And if they do it again,I will give 10 speeches. And if they do it again, I will give 20 speeches.”Although Paquette is free to discuss this issue publicly and haswaived confidentiality, the administration and members of the facultyare limited in what they can divulge in the public sphere.“This is not being done for Bob Paquette,” said Paquette. “This isbeing done for a principle.” Most parties involved would agree.Visit contmag.com for more information on this issue and the debate surrounding the Alexander Hamilton Center.44 the continental | spring 2008

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jaredsolomonHometown:PhiladelphiaMajor:PhilosophyCLASS YEAR:2008Signature Style:casually chicstylespottedHow would you define your sense ofstyle?Generally, I like to be comfortable. I’ll basicallywear anything that defines comfort, so a lotof sandals. I do like jackets and ties when theoccasion calls for it, but I would say that mystaple outfit of comfort is jeans and a whiteT-shirt.Do you have any specific influences thatyou draw from, or even a style icon?I actually don’t. I like to keep it unique. I don’treally study or draw from anything; I just wearwhat I think looks good and feels good.Where are your favorite places to shop?I like Hugo Boss a lot, specifically for theirshoes, ties and belts. Steve & Barry’s is alsoa favorite. Express is great, but I also like theSalvation Army for thrifty finds. I pretty muchshop anywhere.Any wardrobe staples or accessories thatyou can’t leave the house without?That’s a tough call, but it’s between myRainbow sandals and underwear. I can’t leavethe house without that – not the same pair,though!What is your idea of the perfect,everyday outfit?My favorite outfit, that I could wear everyday,regardless of the occasion, would becomfortable jeans, sandals, and a sport coat.It’s a classic for anything.-laura cook ’10senior brings a casual ease to everyday looksthe continental | spring 2008 47

stylemost likely to turn headsBest Semiformal AttireWebsite: www.unique-vintage.comDescription: A unique vintage boutiquewith great 60s and 70s inspired apparel, funseparates and flashy cocktail dresses. Justlike looking through the racks at a vintagestore, you really have to search throughthe website to find what you want. Don’tget discouraged though, the finds are wellworth the extra effort!Editors’ Pick: 60s Style Silk Ombre TunicDress ($88)most likely to be bling blingBest AccessoriesWebsite: www.naughtysecretaryclub.comDescription: Naughty Secretary Club is the place for funkyretro jewelry and crazy accessories. The items on this site alsomake great gifts for friends. Aside from purses and jewelry,they have home goods like mirrors, journals and magnets toadd a little spice to your home and outfits.Editors’ Pick: Frost Gigi ($29)most likely to...Nothing gets us through exam weekor the first day at a new job like acare package. Especially when itcontains new clothes. To help makepicking out your pick-me-up easier,Style Editor Whitney Kimmel rankedthe best online sites for spring andsummer clothing and accessories.most likely to put some pep in your stepBest ShoesWebsite: www.solestruck.comDescription: Search by brand, color, size or style. If you can’tfind a new pair of shoes here, we’d be surprised. Whateveroccasion you’re looking for, SoleStruck is sure tohave a distinct choice that will completeany outfit. They feature brands likeRocket Dog, BCBG Girls,Camper, Palladium and more!Editors’ Pick: SeychellesSocial Climber ($74.95)most likely to not break the bankBest Overall ValueWebsite: www.francescascollections.comDescription: This one-stopshophas everything you need forsummer. Francesca’s Collectionshas great staple items and signaturepieces for an incredibly reasonableprice. You really can’t go wrongon this website. Whether you’relooking for a jacket, some newjewelry or a weekend-dress this isby far the one site we recommendabove all others.Editors’ Pick: Amber WavesDress ($38)48 the continental | spring 2008most likely to save the worldBest Eco-Friendly ClothingWebsite: www.superluckycat.com/about.htmlDescription: These one-of-a-kind pieces are eye-catching and bold. Super LuckyCat recycles old clothing to make something new by cutting apart rejected clothingand sewing matching fabrics, colors and patterns together. Express your unique senseof style while helping keep the world clean – who could ask for more?Editors’ Pick: Tri-Color Scarf Blouse ($49.99)

stylewhat to wearfrom day to night at the beachViX Brown Jewel Bathing Suit$46bluefly.comSolid CrinkleTissue Tunicjcrew.com$39.99To give you a jumpstart on summer style,we’ve compiled a fewitems that can easilytake you from a dayat the beach (or on theQuad) to an eveningout with friends.Lux Knit MeshStrap Dressurbanoutfitters.com$58Big BuddhaKayla clutchpiperlime.com$35.00Virginia Johnson Giant Toteshopbop.com$175Tory Burch Logo Flip Flopsbloomingdales.com$45Dolce VitaAdrianna sandalshopdolcevita.com$115DayKeep things light during the day with a simple bathingsuit and sheer cover-up. Flip flops and an oversizedtote filled with your favorite magazines, a good bookand your iPod are all you need to look beach chic.NightIf you don’t have tons of time between sippingpoolside margaritas and dinner, pack a lightweightdress, clutch and a pair of sparkly sandals to throwon over your bathing suit for a quick switch.the continental | spring 2008 49

stylestep by stepAlthough often made fun of for producing a “fake bake,” the concept of sunless tanneris novel in the sense that it does for your skin something that can normally only beachieved by spending hours in the sun. And let’s face it—in this day and age, we allknow that the damage UV-rays cause is not worth the naturally sunkissed skin. So thissummer, follow Style Editor Laura Cook’s advice about the best sunless tanners aroundso that all you have to bring to the beach is your SPF.Clarins Self TanningInstant GelThis formula is unique, as it is agel as opposed to a lotion or mist.It’s lightweight and non-oily, andpromised to work with your skin’snatural melatonin to produce thebest looking tan for you. Our testerliked that it was light and not messy atall, but didn’t like that it takes almosttwo hours to see results. All in all, sheapproved, but it wasn’t her favorite.Jergens Natural Glow DailyMoisturizerThis daily moisturizer is a self-tannerthat builds gradually, and works bestif applied everyday for approximatelytwo weeks. Although it’s initiallyfrustrating not to see instant color, it’srewarding in the long run as it appearsthe most natural, and is practicallyguaranteed not to streak. It’ll give yourskin exactly what it advertises—anatural glow, but not an extremebronze. Our tester liked it a lot.L’Oreal Paris: Sublime GlowMoisturizing MicroFine MistThis sunless tanner is in the formof an extremely fine mist, whichis sprayed on the skin from anaerosol can. The application processis practically fool proof, as it isguaranteed to not streak and driesin less than a minute. Even better, itwon’t turn your hands an orange tinttypically seen from applying a lotionor cream, and shows up on the skinalmost immediately. Our tester gaveit a perfect ten.St. Tropez InstantTanning SystemAlthough a little bit more of aninvolved process than either theMicroFine Mist or Jergens lotion,this procedure provides more of along-lasting treatment. The systemitself consists of three steps: a bodypolisher to slough away dry skincells, a body moisturizer, and a tintedself-tanner that does work instantly.Although a little bit more expensivethan the other products, the includedpolisher is a nice way to smooth andsoften skin, and guarantee an a veryeven tan. Our tester approved.50 the continental | spring 2008

stylestories with us, showing that art is not only a reflection of personal styleFour of the nine senior art majors shared their personalart imitating life… but of personal experiences as well.by whitney kimmel ’08the continental photographs | spring by liza 2008 rueckert 51 ’08

stylethe inspiration: personal historyandrew decristoforoOne of the first things Andrew mentioned was that he normallydoesn’t share a lot of information about his pieces. Their abstractquality forces the viewer to work to understand their puzzlingmeanings, giving each one a greater significance for the viewer. Eachof his pieces tells a story about his life and reflects his personalityand sense of self. Although he claimed, “I just wear normal clothing… well, normal I think,” he and his art both subtly hide their truedepth. His intriguing pieces present the viewer with a uniquechallenge before yielding their meaning, while his clothing modestlyreveals the accomplished artist and athlete behind his “normal”appearance.52 the continental | spring 2008

stylethe inspiration: family heritagealiya robbinsAlthough Aliya’s ceramic pieces are often glazed in the rich colors shefrequently chooses to wear, her works have a more personal meaning. Shegrew up in a family who was very interested in Asian art and as a result, hasa deep appreciation for it as well. Her pieces reflect an Eastern influenceon ceramics and capture the balance between fine details and artisanimperfection found in similar Japanese styles. Aliya’s pieces are elegant andpensive like the culture she drew inspiration from. Although she has neverbeen to Asia, she hopes to go there someday. In the meantime, she hasindulged her interest with countless courses on Asian art and history whileher project pays homage to both Eastern culture and the shared heritage ofher family.the continental | spring 2008 53

the inspiration: redefining perfectiondenroy thomasDenroy’s piece, entitled “Fallen,” is a series of clay sculptures offset in adark wooden frame that reflect on the nature of human imperfection.His emotional pieces are meant to evoke deep feelings from his viewersas they contemplate their own moments of failure and success. Denroystressed that imperfection is a natural part of life and his pieces areabout accepting that very human part within us all. When asked abouthis style, he admitted he is a perfectionist who pays attention to detailsbecause looking good is the first step to feeling good. He revealed thatthis idea is the basis for his own sense of style, noting, “When I’m atmy worst, I tend to look my best.” His outward expression of perfection(just look at his matching shoes and shirt!) is a way to manage the dailyhighs and lows of life.54 the continental | spring 2008

stylethe inspiration: childhood memorieserin shapiroErin’s large-scale installation based landscape art draws from her childhood. Her works were inspired by the forts she built as a young girl and are made almost entirelyfrom natural products. She even had her neighbors collect leaves from her own backyard to cover her pieces, making the link between her art and childhood evenstronger. She explained to us, “All my work deals with childhood memories and the interaction the viewer has with the piece.” It is no wonder, then, that the materialsshe chose reflect the deep personal bond she has with her work. Like her art, her clothing is youthful and nostalgic, the but continental it is her art that | is the spring true extension 2008 55of herpersonal style and unique life experiences. Her work is fun and expressive, not unlike the childhood that inspired it and the person she has become.

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home sweet homeAnd the winners are … Eric Petscheck ’08 and Elena Wood ’10!We polled the campus to find out who had the hottest Hamiltoncribs and these two proved they have style. Eric’s room lookedmore like something you’d find in a modern hotel suite thana Babbitt suite. The rich color scheme, soft lights and tastefuldecorations set his apart from other contenders. Turn the page tosee how Elena transformed her Bundy room.the continental | spring 2008 57

styleDo you think your roomshould have beenincluded as one of thebest rooms oncampus? Emailcontmag@hamilton.edu and we’ll feature iton contmag.com.Elena’s creative use of space(and swing!) makes for agreat place to kick back andrelax or party with friends. Weloved her bright color schemeand laid back vibe.58 the continental | spring 2008

stylemellow yellowYellow is one of this season’s hottest colors. Set yourselfapart from the pastels and make a bold statement withbright yellow prints and accent pieces. The bright colorsets the tone for spring and summer while giving you alittle extra glow to get you through the day. Whetheryou’re a guy or girl, funky or preppy, this is a color thatcan’t be missed.the continental | spring 2008 59

closing timefour years,millions of memories,one final week to enjoy it allphotographs by liza rueckert ’0860 the continental | spring 2008

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style watchBrightly colored dressesand comfortableheels are the perfectcombination for dancingthe night away at theSenior Formal.62 the continental | spring 2008

senior advice“We come to this college,make friends with people,and come to fullyappreciate them ex postfacto. In the words ofRobin Williams in‘Dead Poets Society’:Carpe Diem.”-Michael Vivieros ’08“closing time - time for you to go back to the places you will be from...”-semisonicon the way to senior formalSunday, May 186: 15 PMthe continental | spring 2008 63

senior advice“Internships are a goodway to understand whatyou want to do, and moreimportantly, what youdon’t want to do.”-Ryan Murphy ’08“closing time - every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”-semisonicgoing to the wine tastingTuesday, May 201: 00 PM64 the continental | spring 2008

elaxing before block partyTuesday, May 205: 00 PMthe continental | spring 2008 65

style watchSenior Week is full of fun activities, and it demandsversatile outfits that can take you from mimosa morningto lawn games, happy hour to the Last Chance Dance.Take a cue from seniors Ryan Murphy, Katie Plummer,Manny Rosario, and Emily Tang and you will have greatlooks for every Senior Week event.“closing time - time for you to go ousenior advicelawn gamesThursday, May 2210: 00 AM66 the continental | spring 2008“Don’t sacrifice yoursocial life for homework.Go out with your friendsto the Pub and justwake up an hour earlierto do the reading.”-Amanda Pooler ’08

t, go out into the world.”-semisonicstrawberries & champagneFriday, May 2311:30 AMthe continental | spring 2008 67

exposedhamilton streakers bare all68 the continental | spring 2008

societyleo Streakface* showed up first for myinterview in Opus with two membersof the Hamilton Streaking Team. Hewas alone, and after introductions,quickly said that he would be rightback. A few minutes later, he andhis counterpart Sans Clothing reappeared,completely naked, spare forbackpacks and ties. Grinning, they sat downon the high stools and looked down at me,their shocked, interviewer. However, theircomfort with their own nudity helped mebecome comfortable as we began the interviewabout their passion—streaking.The Hamilton Streaking Team, despiteits lack of official funding is, as Sans Clothingputs it, “a very Hamilton experience…nowhere else that you go are you going to bepresented with a streaking team.” They bothagreed that streaking is all about Hamiltonas a community, as opposed to “a few crazypeople,” which is why the streakers wearmasks to hide their identities(presumably, also toprevent getting identifiedby the campus po’).When asked if it wasever awkward being naked around otherpeople, Sans Clothing responded, “Absolutelynot. It’s just like a naked club.” LeoStreakface continued, “Knowing someonenaked is like knowing a different aspect oftheir personality.”However, the streaking team has runinto many obstacles. For example, as LeoStreakface puts it, “[The team] got caught bythe police—the real police. I think they gotcharged with public nudity.” But that doesnot, and will not, stop these determined disrobers.“It’s very liberating, very freeing,” LeoStreakface told me. He explained that whatWe streak to win.draws people to the team is the idea of steppingout of their comfort zones and theadrenaline rush they get from streaking.Many of us have seen the streakers before.This year, they famously streaked at ahypnotist show and in Commons, but thosehave not been their only streaks this year, andluckily for all of their fans, they will streakagain.“Accepted Students Day is usually a fairbet,” said Sans Clothing.Leo Streakface added, “It weeds out theconservative kids…it’s great when you canreally see the parents’ faces.” As he said this,several adults walked by and gave him andhis naked friend close looks. Some acted asthough they had seen this before.Even more interestingly, I was approachedafter the interview by a 1978 alumwho asked what I had been doing talking to“those two naked gentlemen.” I tentativelyreplied that they were on the streaking team,and I waited for the presumablyhim to wonderaloud what had happenedto his alma mater.Instead, he said exuberantly,“I used to streak here back in 1978!”That is only one piece of proof that theliberation and adrenaline rush of streakinghas been popular on the Hamilton campusfor a while, and hopefully, for years to come.If you feel intimidated by the bare-bottomedstreakers you see occasionally, don’t be—join the team! Sans Clothing told me thatthe ideal streaker is someone with a “willingnessto step out of their comfort zone.” Healso added, “There is an open invitation toeverybody.”As we said goodbye, he said, “We’re in itfor the win. We streak to win.”- alexandra borowitz ’11*names have been changed for privacythe continental | spring 2008 69

societyat home withjoanpresident stewart opens up about life on the hilland gives us a tour of 11 college hill road70 the continental | spring 2008

11 College HillBuilt in 1910; hometo Hamilton’s presidentssince 1955Style: Queen AnneArt: mostly classicaland 19th CenturyPersonal Style: PresidentStewart’s loveof all things French isevident throughoutthe homethe continental | spring 2008 71

societyOn a recent sunny spring afternoon, I had the opportunity to meetwith Hamilton’s President Joan Hinde Stewart at her home at 11College Hill Road. How many of us drive up the Hill each day andstare at the house, a charming combination of a rustic cottage andQueen Anne style? But let’s face it: no one really gets to see muchmore than this routine view except for seniors who gather there for concentrationdinners and brunches. Here’s a private look inside the house.In 1910, Hamilton’s Professor of Law, Frederick Davenport, built the houseto be used as his family’s summer home. The summer cottage provided theDavenport family with over forty years of leisure and tranquility until 1955 whenthe professor gave the house to President Robert McEwen as the new officialabode for the college’s President. For over half a century, the house’s inhabitantshave worked with the college to keep it impeccably maintained so that its proudhistory can be kept alive.My first surprise was a carriage house near the back entrance. And beforeeven introducing myself to President Stewart, I met the famous Elihu Vedderstatue “Fountain with Standing Boy.” Vedder originally created the fountain and itsstatue for the Rogers Estate back when its patio was used for more stately purposes.The statue is so beloved that Physical Plant encases it with plexi-glass to protect itfrom the severe Clinton winters.The interior aesthetic is even more impressive than the exterior. The sittingroom is spacious and welcoming. Its natural tones and classic appeal direct focusto the many pieces of artwork that adorn the room. It is not commonly knownto the student body that Hamilton’s president has unlimited pemission to borrowart from the Emerson Gallery to display in the house. President Stewart typicallydecorates the house with classical and 19 th century art, but ultimately she prefersworks that hold meaning for the college.One such piece, her most cherished work of art in the house, rests above themantel: a portrait of Samuel Kirkland. Painted posthumously in 1873 by Augustus72 the continental | spring 2008

Rockwell, the painting illustrates the lasting legacyof Kirkland, who died in 1808. Atop two bookcasesstand several Romantic 19 th century bronze statuesby Antoine Bayre. President Stewart also shares herhome with an elderly inhabitant: a fantastically grownChristmas cactus that is over fifteen years old. It hasbeen in the house longer than President Stewart andeven has its own caretaker! Next to the cactus is anelegant piano that was built in 1928. After many yearsof both love and abuse, the college gave PresidentStewart the piano because its keys could not take anymore long hours of practicing.My favorite room in the house is the grandkitchen. Done in a dark, warm mahogany and red, the room is invigorating with itsProvincial-style hanging pots and pans rack and expansive Viking stove. Best of all,President Stewart has a plasma TV, so she can watch any of her favorite black andwhite films while she dines on whatever specialty her culinary enthusiast husbandconcocts for dinner. It is endearing to know that after a long day’s work, PresidentStewart enjoys these smaller pleasures.One thing is certain: President Stewart has many passions and luckily, theyincorporate into her multifaceted role at Hamilton. President Stewart states thather two passions are higher education and 18 th century French literature andremarkably, she is able to integrate these great loves into her life on the Hill. PresidentStewart’s class with Professor of English John O’Neill explores 18 th century Frenchand English literature. President Stewart reflects, “The student response to thecoursework is so enriching. I am able to read through the lens of student familiarity,which is one of the most gratifying aspects of my job.” 18 th century French literatureis alluring to her because it was not a part of the era’s literary canon—its acclaim isvery recent. President Stewart is devoted to furthering her scholarly career throughraising the awareness of often overlooked, immensely gifted female French writers.President Stewart recently announced that she will take a sabbatical next springto immerse herself in research of these writers, exploring the correspondencesbetween the female writers’ aging processes at a time when only 10% of the femalepopulation lived past the age of sixty.President Stewart’s love of all things French is evident in the small touches thatmake up her home. A blue and white Provincial tile proudly displays her addressnext to the back entryway. A vibrant painting evoking the Impressionist style, “TheTuileries” by John Supplee ’69, hangs over the staircase and reinforces“I truly love this house.My greatest hope isthat it is comfortableand welcoming for thecommunity which sogenerously allows meto live in it.”-President Stewartthe continental | spring 2008 73

President Stewart’s love of all thingsFrench is evident in the small touches thatmake up her home.President Stewart’s love of French spirit. Adjacent to the magnificent paintingis a 19 th century French parasol President Stewart found at an antique store.President Stewart has also purchased two tranquil Bruce Muirhead paintings,which are done in a trompe l’oeil style. These paintings pull together the old andnew pieces of art throughout the house.President Stewart’s taste also has remarkably snazzy touches. She is selfproclaimed“chandelier-obsessed” because they instantly jazz up any room. Shehas installed two whimsical chandeliers, one in the foyer and the other in thedining room. President Stewart’s collection of hand-painted eggs also reveals hereccentric taste, and allows her to commemorate the countries she travels to. Thesesmall yet personal touches blend perfectly with the house’s classic aesthetic.President Stewart remarks, “I do not want anything too idiosyncratic in thehouse because the privilege of living here is merely a mandate from the Collegeto be a good steward.” President Stewart continually emphasizes that her greatestdisappointment would be letting the College down if she made the house tooreflective of her personal tastes. She is committed to restoring the historical aspects,like the portico that was rebuilt last summer, and the home’s antiques. She admits,“I truly love this house. My greatest hope is that it is comfortable and welcomingfor the community which so generously allows me to live in it.”- jenna fain ’0974 the continental | spring 2008

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societygirls just want to have funthree seniors share their favorite sorority party themes1 23My favorite Alpha Theta Chi date party isour annual Fire and Ice party. The Fire andIce party, which gets its name for having iceluges and flaming shots, offers an occasionfor people to dress up in more formal attire,as opposed to the usual weekend uniformsof jeans and t-shirts. However, it also allowsfor some creativity—one year one of myfriends dressed up as ice while her date wasfire. Switching up the scene from beirut to iceluge also allows us a slight change of scenery,which is desperately needed in the long wintermonths at Hamilton.-katie plummer ’08Looking back on Pi Beta Chi’s date partiesof the past, I would have to say the mostmemorable one is ‘Mai Tai’ of 2006, mysophomore year. My first experience of PBX’sannual event was nothing short of remarkable.The premise behind the party is to have afriend pick your date and bring you one of histies to wear that night. When he shows up atthe party he announces, “that’s my tie!” Theparty involves fun games and an overall goodtime!-jenna lally ’08Kappa Sigma Alpha’s Rave was by far my favoriteparty of the year. The mix of techno andpopular favorites kept everyone dancing theentire night. Whether you wanted to reliveyour days abroad by indulging in the Eurotrashvibe or a typical Hamilton night in ELS’sBasement—the party offered something foreveryone. And of course, the Rave wouldn’thave been complete without strobe lights,glow sticks, smarties, and jello shots.-whitney kimmel ’08people who like to do fun things76 the continental | spring 2008If you are wearing a bandana on your arm youare a human, and if you are wearing one on yourhead you are a zombie. Most Hamilton studentsare aware of this by now. Humans vs. Zombies is afairly new game at Hamilton College brought hereby the founder of the People Who Like To Do FunThings Club, Andrew Boddorf (also known as theCommander in Chief of Fun). Boddorf says he createdthe club this semester to “get people out andabout.”People Who Like To Do Fun Things currentlyhas 30-40 members and is a network of peoplewho like to (who’d have guessed?) play games suchas Humans vs. Zombies. Since the club is new, Humansvs. Zombies has been their biggest project,but they have many ideas including an all-campussnow ball fight, a water balloon fight, a game ofcapture the flag, and a game of Assassins. Boddorfplans to keep building the club up.The club was founded after the success of thefirst Humans vs. Zombies game. In this year’s roundthere were 120 players, and the club now owns approximately60 Nerf guns. Players who don’t haveNerf guns, can use rolled up socks. Players registeron the game’s website HvZhamilton.com and oneplayer is assigned the role of original zombie. So far, there have been no broken bones or significant injuries.However, one human did lock himself in a closet for two hours and politely told campus safety notto open the door while the zombies set up their sleeping bags outside.Next year Boddorf wants to try and use Humans vs. Zombies to raise money for charity. Hehopes to have Zombies sponsored for the number of humans they kill, similar to fundraising run/walks.It is hard not to notice the presence of Humans vs. Zombies on campus, and it is likely that we can expectmore interesting and exhilarating activities from the People Who Like To Do Fun Things.- sarah goodell ’11

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travelanunexpectedlifeliving in senegal,junior eric thomas reflectson the transformativeexperience of studyingabroadIhad no idea. Nobody on this trip did, and I asked. The fact is, notone person out of a group of 22 really knew what they were gettinginto when they came to Senegal, West Africa to study abroad with theSchool for International Training.Oh sure, we’d all read the handbooks and leafed through the glossybrochures in our respective study abroad offices. Some of us, bored athome with a long break before the February start date, had even gone toSIT’s website and looked at pictures from past years.But those smiling faces in front of natural wonders and with cuteAfrican children don’t really do justice to the experience. Three days ago,I was singing “Shout” by Otis Day with my classmates in a tiny villagewest of Thiès because the people there wanted to hear American music.Two weeks ago, I was working in a bronze forge with fourteen membersof the same extended family. Six weeks ago, I was in the mountains nearKedougou, on the borders of Mali and Guinea learning a language spokenin only a handful of villages.And two months ago, I was getting off a plane from Paris, alonestaring into a sea of faces behind a barricade; hustlers and mothers withtheir children, cabbies and businessmen, musicians and imams, all pushinginto the sweltering night. When I think back, two and a half monthsfeels like two and a half years, and even doing laundry on the roof besidethe sheep pen has become routine.I have a friend who told me that going to the “developing world” withSIT would totally change my life. She was in Nicaragua last year, doingthe same thing, and came back dying to tell me what Senegal would belike. I am sure we all know people like this (in fact, I fear I am becomingone). The people that come back from abroad and can’t wait to tell youall about it, and how they grew as a person and learned so much about allthese other “beautiful people.” They are our friends and classmates, buthearing (or reading) about their experiences can get tedious.But they are right: it is impossible to study abroad anywhere andnot have the experience change you. You can study almost any discipline,and you can travel to every continent, but you will come backthinking differently.continued on page 83the continental | spring 2008 79

travel“It is impossible to study abroad anywhereand not have the experience change you.You can study almost any discipline, andyou can travel to every continent, but youwill come back thinking differently.”80 the continental | spring 2008

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travel“The teranga is everywhere. Thisis the Senegalese word forhospitality, and you won’t be ableto avoid making friends.”continued from page 79If you come to West Africa, you will be frustrated by some of whatyou see. It won’t ever feel normal or comfortable to throw plastic bagsinto the street instead of the garbage. The hustlers at Sandaga Marketwon’t ever stop hassling you, no matter how proficient you become inWolof or French. And if you are a girl, you won’t ever be able to walkwith your head uncovered into a mosque, or convince any number orSenegalese men that you don’t actually need a husband.But you will be moved by the hospitality of the people here. Youwill drink gallons of Atayah, tea that came to the region with Arab traderscenturies ago, along with Islam and certain salutations.You will dance, and listen to Djembes and Koras, and probably understandbetter how Caribbean rhythms and the Caribbean in generalare forever linked to West Africa through the dark past of the slave trade.You will listen to a lot of Youssou N’Dour.You will play with the most adorable children in places where carscan’t reach, and talk to village elders that can remember not one, but twoworld wars, and the days when citizens of Senegal’s four communes wereFrench citizens.The teranga is everywhere. This is the Senegalese word for hospitality,and you won’t be able to avoid making friends. In villages where thepeople bathe in the Gambia River and sleep in mud huts, they will shareeverything they have with you. And you will share everything with yourclassmates.Programs like SIT’s in Senegal pull students from places as differentas Western Washington and Hampshire, Northeastern and of course,Hamilton. These students make lasting friends, not just with people here,but with each other. And they ought to because they have a lot in common…noneof them knew what they were getting into.And you won’t either, not after listening to your annoying studyabroad friends, or reading this article. But think about it anyway. Goabroad. Go explore.the continental | spring 2008 83

traveldeutschlandwith drewalumnus drew lafiandra misseshamilton. badly. from a bar in the landof beer and leather, he penned thislove note to the student body.my dear Jamiltonians and Hamiltoes.You probably don’t notice it on yourwalk down Martin’s Way, or whileyou shotgun UCs in your South quad(Oh? You live in South? That’s socool!). But this guy here—he kind ofmisses you.Last year I left our sacred plains of Academia and came to theFatherland a.k.a. Germany; Deutschland; Dutchington; the Landof Beer and Leather—whatever jiggles your pudding. I received aFulbright grant to teach English in German high schools, improve myown language skills, and, unbeknownst to my students, frolic aroundBavaria in leather duds tasting local brews from modest, liter-sizedsample glasses.Just like on the Hill, you fall into a schedule and I’ll be jiggeredif I can fall out of it. I wake up earlier than a milkman (that’s right, amilkman) and I actually have to get ready in the morning. I actuallyshower, groom, eat breakfast, pack my briefcase (thank you Salvo) andleave the apartment when it is still dark out. At what point did the era ofBacchalian Tuesdays abandon this poor twenty-four-year-old Germanmajor?I know, I know. You’re saying, oh bananas! That’s how it is outsideof this resort on the Hill? Well, yes and no. Though your post-collegeexperience may differ from mine, I work four days a week with Fridaysoff and have a grueling three-hour work day. On long weekends, I travelas far as my paychecks take me, which is usually to the Turkish single’snight on the first floor of my apartment building. But sometimes, Itake the hour-long train ride to visit classmate Andy Mention ’07 inMunich. There is this great deal in Germany: when traveling in onlyone Bundesland (e.g. Bavaria, a state), you can buy a pass for only €2784 the continental | spring 2008(approx. $4582 American), and up to five people can travel with it forthe whole day. The catch, of course, is finding four Germans to split theticket. Those of you who have spent any time in this wonderful countrywill note that the natives are great people. They lead the modern worldnot only in low greenhouse emissions, but also in being some of theweirdest, most awkward people to walk the earth. The fact that theGerman language has no word for ‘awkward’ alone makes conversinga relatively hilarious endeavor. Anyhoo, my best experience whilst“training” around was splitting the ticket with four blond fillies thatwere studying—you guessed it, English. I was like, holler?So after all of this, it doesn’t sound like I miss you all that much.Well, there my dear friends, you are wrong. Being able to find somebroham at four o’clock Monday morning and drinking a celebratoryI-just-finished-my-Anthro-final bottle of whiskey will never be matchedhere. Dressing up as Severus Snape to frighten little children and adultsjust isn’t appreciated here. Grinding with biddies at the ELS RockyHorror party won’t happen anyplace other than Hamilton—trust meon that one. Hamilton holds a painfully permanent place in my heart.I sometimes wake up in the middle of the night thinking that I haveonce again crashed on the sofa in the Fireplace Lounge, but wake up torealize that I am actually wearing clothes, negating the possibility of theformer scenario. I then go to the Hamilton website and I see what y’allsare up to. Shout outs to Greg and Magda: Watson fellows I presume?Also, to the Curling team: Respect.So the next time you whip out your key to shotgun some brewdogsor beerhammers or whatever the devil you kids call them nowadays,remember that somewhere in Germany there is a kid who is missingthe hell out of it. In the meantime, there are four blond German womentrying to get into my apartment. Toodles.

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travelincredible indiaback on the hill after a semester in india, matt arnoldsat down with travel editor melissa kong to answer all ofher questions about life in this remarkable country.Melissa Kong: Describe a typical day for you in India.Matt Arnold: It’s tough to say, because we never stayed in one place.My study abroad group traveled all over Northern India. For the first halfof the program, we took classes at a hill station in the Himalayas calledMussoorie, where we had four hours of Hindi class every day and thenevening lectures were given by Professor Lisa Trivedi on ethnographyand the history of India. For the second half, I stayed with a homestayfamily for a month in the city of Jaipur, in the desert state of Rajasthan.There, we had Hindi class every other day for about three hours. We alsohad lectures from various guest speakers for about three hours a day at theUniversity of Rajasthan. Living with my homestay family was probablyone of my favorite parts of the trip, because I had a lot of free time tospend with my homestay sisters. Sometimes, I would just go out andpurposefully get lost; I really learned a lot about the city that way.MK: What was your best moment while you were abroad?MA: In the middle of the trip, I had a four day break where two of myfriends and I took a train to a city called Jodhpur. We were just exploringthe city one day and accidentally got lost. That’s when we met a familythat kept asking us to come inside their home. We were skeptical at firstbecause that doesn’t really happen in America, but I realized that theyjust wanted to meet us and share their home. They took us up to theroof of their house and told us incredible stories about the city. Thatmoment, that view, was one of the most memorable parts of the tripfor me. It was the moment when I realized how incredibly open andfriendly the people of India were. I ended up making really great friendsthis way throughout my trip.MK: Would you change anything about the trip if you could?MA: I wish there was less structure in the program and more timeto either explore or be with my homestay family. Time spent in theclassroom was invaluable, but I learned the most on the trip when I hadthe time to just wander.MK: Do you think you changed at all during your time in India?MA: While I was there, I winded up getting really attached to thecountry, and by extension, I got really attached to the idea of traveling.My abroad experience was thrilling—I was constantly put in situationswhere I had to improvise, and those are invaluable growing experiences.I was very much a homebody before I left, but now I have a strong urgeto travel and see the world.MK: What was your transition like when you came back to Hamilton?Do you feel differently about life on the Hill?MA: I experienced really intense culture shock. It was interestingbecause I didn’t have that culture shock when I went back to my homein Syracuse for a month before I came back to Hamilton in January. It’shard to describe, but as you can imagine, Hamilton and India are prettymuch as different as cultures get.MK: Tell me a bit about the culture in India.MA: The culture is a lot more community-based, and their religions playa much bigger role in their lives. It is hard for me to imagine growing upin that culture and not thinking about how religion plays into everydaydecisions. The city of Varanasi, for instance, was an amazing example ofthe close tie between religion and lifestyle. Therecontinued on page 91the continental | spring 2008 87

travel“Be in the moment—take your experience day by day.88 the continental | spring 2008

If you do, you will learn invaluable lessons.”the continental | spring 2008 89

travel“I was very much a homebody before I left,90 the continental | spring 2008but now I have a strong urge to travel and see the world.”

travelis a certain sense of peace and empathy that exists among and betweenthe people of India. In Hindi, it is common to call a stranger “brother”or “sister.” Everyone is involved in their community. Despite generalglobal perceptions, society in India—particularly in large cities—isinfluenced by both class and caste. Though the caste system generallydetermines occupation, class structures are still important.MK: What advice would you give to another Hamilton studentpreparing to study abroad in India?MA: Be respectful of the other culture, and constantly remind yourselfthat you are a guest of their country. Don’t impose your own culturalideas or expectations on others. One general rule that I followed keptme out of trouble during my time in India: When situations get reallyintense, just smile through it and dispel any tension that may arise withlocals. You must be forgiving and just smile through things.MK: What kind of student do you think would get a lot of value out ofstudying abroad in India?MA: Someone who has had very little experience traveling andexploring new cultures would get the most out of it. You shoulddefinitely be open-minded. Get used to the idea of being comfortablewith being uncomfortable. Be vigilant about not having the things youmight take for granted back home, like constant access to sanitary water.Finally, try not to think about home too much. Be in the moment—takeyour experience day by day. If you do, you will learn so many invaluablelessons.the continental | spring 2008 91

una vitabellaallison gaston-enholmshares her favorite thingsabout studying in padova,showcasing the best thatitalian life has to offer.photographs by jessica leibowitz92 the continental | spring 2008

travelfamilyThe highlight of my study abroad experience hasbeen living with my Italian family. My homestaybrothers and I play basketball, sword fight, andwatch the Simpsons. They especially like borrowingmy iPod and listening to American music. (Theirfavorites include ACDC and Green Day).the continental | spring 2008 93

travelgondola ridesPadova is right outside of Venice, making it theperfect place for day trips. I generally try not to be atourist, but I did take a gondola ride when anotherHamilton student came to visit. We were sung toand everything!the foodI can’t talk about Italy without mentioning thefabulous food. Italian foods are prepared dailywith fresh ingredients. I rarely enjoy something asdecadent as this dessert.the architectureThis is the ceiling inside the Basilica San Vitale inRavenna. I visited it during one of the first weekendshere, and it has remained my favorite church eversince.94 the continental | spring 2008

travelblood orangesEvery day, huge markets are set up in the piazzas.My favorite stands are the fruit vendors. Bloodoranges are very popular in Italy; they are ‘dolce’(sweet) and, true to their name, stain your handsbright red.carnevale‘Carnevale’ is a huge festival that takes place inVenice. Everyone dresses in costumes and masks tocelebrate. School is canceled for days and all of thelittle kids dress up, littering the streets and piazzaswith confetti.pratto della valleThis is the ‘Pratto della Valle.’ Once a Romanamphitheater, the “Prato” is now a place wherepeople gather to skate, stroll, or chat. It continuesto play a central role in everyday life in Padova. I gohere to picnic and sunbathe…uh, I mean, study inthe afternoon.the continental | spring 2008 95

travelStop #8: BrusselsSee: Grand Place – This is the centralmarket square in Brussels, surroundedby gorgeous buildings such as the townhall and Hôtel de Ville.Stay: 2G04 Quality Hostel – The namedoesn’t lie. This hostel is among the bestin Brussels, centrally located in case youwant to crawl back in bed after a longnight of pub crawling.Eat: Taverne du Passage – GreatBelgian food. Be ironic and try the ‘filetamericain’ and frites.Stop #9: ParisSee: Finally, you’ve reachedyour last stop on your veryown Eurotrip. Yes, the EiffelTower is a must. You also haveto see both the Cathédralede Notre-Dame de Paris, aswell as the Musée du Louvre—one of the best museumsin the world.Stay: St. Christopher’s – Abrand new hostel.Eat: Oh, the joy of Parisianfood. Don’t leave Paris without a stop atDomaine de Lintillac. This intimate Parisianbistro is a great place for taste testing varioustypes of foie gras and pates.Stop #7: AmsterdamSee: Don’t lie to yourself,you will at some point windup in the Red Light District.It’s a fascinating place topeople watch and explore acompletely different side ofEurope.Stay: Flying Pig DowntownHostel – this place has a sort ofgrungy charm, complete witha pool table, DJs blasting music, and abasement called the ‘Happy Room’.Eat: Have a quick bite at Maoz for afalafel and mingle with Dutch students—it’s a popular hangout for the collegecrowd. Then head to Paradiso, a musicclub where some of the most famousartists have performed, such as DavidBowie and The Rolling Stones.Stop #1: BarcelonaSee: Las Ramblas – One of Spain’s mostpopular areas, Las Ramblas is filledwith fresh flower and food stands, smallshops, and street performances byactors and mimes.Stay: Hostal Lausanne – Pretty rooms,high ceilings, and a central location.Eat: Cervecería Catalana – Delicioustapas and flautas (skinny sandwiches).the bottom lineRound-trip ticket from NYC to Paris during the summer: approximately $900Global Eurail Pass: $779 (www.eurail.com)30 nights in hostels @ approximately $35/night: $1,050A strong backpack: $175Money for food, souvenirs, museums, and going out: approx. $50/day: $1,50096 the continental | spring 2008Trip Total: $4,404Stop #2: FlorenceSee: Galleria Degli Uffizi – Rumoredthe greatest Renaissance art gallerworld. Book a ticket in advance, esduring the summer months.Stay: Ostello della Gioventù – A 17 tvilla turned hostel, located in a lushYou are sure to meet a lot of fellow there.Eat: Mario’s – A popular trattoria, knthe delicious pasta dishes (surprise, s

to bey in thepeciallyhcentrygarden.ravelersown forurprise).Stop #6: MunichSee: Dachau – Thiswas the first Naziconcentration camp.Though it may not bethe most fun part ofyour trip, it is a hugepart of world historyand should be visited inperson.Stay: Wombat’s – Weirdname, but it’s one of thebest hostels in Europe.Backpackers often windup staying here longer than anticipatedbecause they enjoy it so much.Eat: Hofbräuhaus – This may be a touristtrap, but who cares. The enormous mugsof beer are delicious, and they even havefood if you want to do something crazy,like eat.Stop #5: PragueSee: Charles Bridge – the connectionbetween Old Town and New Town, it isone of the most gorgeous sights in theCzech Republic. Get there at sunrise,because you can barely walk throughthe mob of tourists when the weather isnice.Stay: Hostel Sokol – It was once a riversidemansion. Enough said.Eat: U Fleku – Triple threat: it’s a large pub,restaurant, and micro-brewery. Featuresinclude stunning architecture and great,authentic Czech food.Stop #4: ViennaSee: Donauinselfest – A popular, open-airmusic festival that takes place annuallyat the end of June. It is Europe’s largestoutdoor festival, with about 3 millionvisitors each year. The best part? It’sfree.Stay: Hostel Ruthensteiner – Run byincredibly friendly owners, a handmadewooden bar, and a lot of personality.Eat: Schnitzelwirt Schmidt – What woulda trip to Vienna be without a Wienerschnitzel?Stop #3: RomeSee: – A trip toRome just isn’tcomplete withouta visit here.Stay: Casa diSanta FrancescaRomano – a comfyinn run by a localchurch. Prettyrooms, and thereis even a waterfall.Eat: San Crispano –Forget real food- this is the best gelatoin town. Try the honey sorbet.traveleuropeon ashoestringFor years,backpacking throughEurope has beena rite of passageinto adulthood. ButEurope is enormousand overwhelming—just where exactly areyou supposed to go,and how much freeflowingcash do youneed to have a goodtime? Travel EditorMelissa Kong givesyou a breakdown ofthe places you mustsee and the price tagyou should expect fora month’s worth oftravel.the continental | spring 2008 97

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