Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons user Samvscat.

Almost all of the interview slots were taken. Students signed up and shuffled into BU Central for ten minutes one-on-one with an MTV producer. Ghita Benslimane (CGS ’15) interviewed for her chance to be made into a confident stand-up comedienne. The producer asked her questions about how supportive her family is, her confidence level, and why she felt she wanted MTV to help her achieve her dreams. “The interviewer was very nice and very personable in a sense that I was relaxed during the process even though a camera was filming me the entire time,” Ghita said. “I really like the concept of the show and after getting interviewed I got back to my dorm and started watching some of the previous MADE episodes. They really achieve people’s dreams from what I can tell and I think that’s an awesome thing to do for people.”

MTV may not end up choosing one of our own to star on a future episode. The TV channel reached out to BU in addition to many other big universities to coordinate the nation-wide casting call. In the event that a BU student is chosen, cameras will probably not enter the classroom, so you don’t have to worry about your half-asleep, drooling mug making its way onto the small screen. MTV will, however, be allowed to tape in public places around campus and potentially in dorms if given permission.

Between alumni like Howard Stern and Geena Davis and an overall all-star faculty, BU’s got more than enough star power to go around. Happenings such as this casting call, however, are a reminder of said star power and the abundant opportunities handed to us as students at a major urban university.

RockMelt + BU + Free Beta = Match Made in Social Heaven by Lauren Hockenson

Top Chef Recap: Everybody Made Soup by Joel Kahn

The Euro Meets Its Match by Evan Caughey

Please stop making memes.

Please stop making Shit ____ Say videos.

PLEASE.

Yes, some of them are funny. Some of them are very funny. Some have even made me chortle out loud and spin the computer around to share them with a comrade. But enough is enough! The Internet is supposed to be a vast stream of information, but now it is just Memeville, governed by Mayor Philosoraptor. What happened to puppy videos? Or StumbleUpon? Remember good ol’ StumbleUpon? With all that… variety? What ever happened to spending hours on Megavideo? Oh, wait; I know what happened to that. (Fun thing to do: Google search the house of the guy who created MegaUpload, and then hate yourself.)

I like to think that I’m giving a voice to the downtrodden right now, but perhaps I am part of the Memeville 1% and just pissing off all you 99%ers to the point where you will rise up against me. But this @LiquidFun tweet makes me feel like maybe I’m letting the truth rain down:

Sage wisdom from Ross Huston: The send doesn't justify the meme.

February 8, 2012 8:40 pm via Mobile WebReplyRetweetFavorite

@liquidfun

Liquid Fun

But if you do hate me for being a Class-A fun ruin-er, maybe we can compromise and you can only make memes with cute puppies and Shit Cute Puppies Say videos?

(Also, there were lots of words in all caps in this opening because I am very passionate about this topic, but my copy editor told me to cut that crap out because it sounds mean. BUT I LOVE CAPITAL LETTERS!)

I PROUDLY PRESENT…

Are you coming to "The Black-Jew Dialogues" at BU! ... or are you just going to sit in your room alone looking at BU memes all day?

February 8, 2012 3:29 pm via FacebookReplyRetweetFavorite

@BU_Hillel

BU Hillel

Oooooooh snap! @BU_Hillel has got some jokes! Welcome to #TweetCreep, guys.

ANYONE HAVE TAPE FOR MY GLASSES?

Socially awkward? Maybe. But one of the most fun-loving colleges too! http://t.co/OyfID9gk

February 8, 2012 3:09 pm via HootSuiteReplyRetweetFavorite

@comugrad

BU COM

Apparently only if that fun includes Dungeons and Dragons and a can of Cheez Whiz.

FALSE ADVERTISING

Let's talk about sex! Sweet moves BU DTG and SHS #flashmob http://t.co/azeW6wdM

February 8, 2012 12:44 pm via Twitter for iPhoneReplyRetweetFavorite

@theGSU

SAO

Okay, you had me at “Let’s talk about sex!”, but then the tweet quickly lost my interest. Did Student Health Services make a sex tape or something? And if so, was it the “you’re going to get an STD” kind or the Kim Kardashian kind?

THE SHINING, BUT WITH TELEMARKETERS

What's scarier than tuition? Well, not much but...BCAP's Monster opens tomorrow night, Feb 9! http://t.co/GFFHk7fv

February 8, 2012 9:56 am via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@CFAtweets

BU CFA

Spoiler Alert: The Monster is your future student loans collector. Played by Jack Nicholson.

ALTERNATE PUNCHLINE: YOUR GLASSES ARE CROOKED

StuVi III: Because no one will notice South Campus is crooked if we build another skyscraper. Maggie Dunn reports: http://t.co/uo0QqQCF

February 7, 2012 2:30 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@butv10_TheWire

butv10's The Wire

South Campus isn’t crooked! Your gait is crooked!

WRITER’S NOTE: I debated whether to use the word “gait” or not, but I decided to go for it because I believe in your intellect. If you don’t know the word, look it up because this joke works, damn it!

AND FEWER LAXATIVES

We ask that you please refrain from making any Oliver Twist jokes in the D-Halls today.#Dickens

February 7, 2012 12:19 pm via Twitter for iPadReplyRetweetFavorite

@BUDiningService

BU Dining Services

“Please sir, I want some more… adherence to health code regulations.”

NO LOL

Roflcopter yea we do! RT @bdevit: Remember that time @theGSU paid her to come host an event? Yep, #BU. http://t.co/ycVxmtiW…

February 7, 2012 10:12 am via HootSuiteReplyRetweetFavorite

@theGSU

SAO

Stop trying to make roflcopter happen! Seriously. Never again, guys. I can’t even wrap my head around what roflcopter even means. You laugh so hard, you levitate? Just… never again.

HAVE THEY BEEN WORN?

Head down to the GSU Link today to send a Panty Gram to that special someone! Just One week until Valentines Day!

February 7, 2012 11:49 am via Twitter for iPhoneReplyRetweetFavorite

@BUDeltaGamma

Delta Gamma ZZ

Panty Grams: The Valentine’s Gift of Choice for Japanese Businessmen and Frat Boys Everywhere

WANTED: TALKING VAJAYJAYS

If your vagina could talk, what would it say? "Um, yes please", "NOT YET", "You da one"? Think of a better one? Let us know & you could win!

February 6, 2012 11:13 pm via EchofonReplyRetweetFavorite

@VagMo2012

BU Vagina Monologues

I’m not interested in what any vagina has to say unless it is Snooki’s vagina or that monster vagina from the movie Teeth.

BU TweetCreep: January 29th – February 3rd by Liz Breen

BU TweetCreep: February 27th-March 4th by Meghan Ross

BU TweetCreep: April 10th-15th by Meghan Ross

Sweet treats aren't the only fun part of V-Day! | Photo by Andovercookiemama via Flickr Commons

Red and pink hearts. Heart-shaped boxes of chocolates. Aggressively marketed lingerie. Yes, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, spawning obnoxiously romantic ads for diamonds and a flurry of sappy cards throughout every CVS. While it’s true that V-Day is mostly  a holiday that was made up by greeting card companies, it’s still a significant night for both the single and attached. Couples have their romantic fun while single ladies can have a blast with their own “Galentine’s Day” à la Leslie Knope. Sounds like a great time for all; the only question is, what to wear?

A red dress is a powerful and versatile piece for Valentine's Day. | Photo by Han Ghazi via Flickr Commons

Here are a few ideas for how to remix Valentine’s Day classics, be it for a romantic date or a wild night with the ladies. Pop in some smooth jams (we like Al Green) and vibe with us.

1. The Red Dress

Oh, the perennial V-Day favorite. A red dress is an iconic article of clothing: sexy, chic, and timeless. For a date, a red dress is best worn simply–keep accessories minimal (one statement-making necklace and a small pair of interesting studs, or shoulder-grazing danglers and a bangle) and stick to low-maintenance styling with almost-natural makeup and soft, easy hair.  For a fun Galentines’ night out, however, it’s time to make the red dress fun! Embrace all the man-repelling trends you love and layer piles and piles of gorgeousness on top. Throw on a striped Breton top, a military jacket, and every accessory you own, do your makeup crazy and bright, strap on a pair of bear-trap shoes, and hit the town like the fabulous peacock you are. In this case, before you leave the house, put one more thing on. 

2. The Lingerie

We know what you’re thinking. This one’s obvious, right? Not so much. Whether single or attached, every girl loves a good bra and panty set. And with Valentine’s Day’s emphatic advertising of all things underwear, why not incorporate some into your outfit as well? For a romantic date, it’s simple–make it pretty (whether that means delicate and pale or dark and sumptuous, that’s all personal preference) and wear it under the clothes. For the single girl, though, the options get interesting. We at The Quad love us some underwear as outerwear–think Carrie Bradshaw–and we think that, when played just right, it is utterly chic. Try a neon bustier under a sharp-shouldered blazer and pair it with a pair of slouchy pants. It’s a brilliant and totally unexpected silhouette.

3. The Makeup

The make-up ads around Valentine’s day are always a little counter-intuitive to romance. They scream “RED LIPS” to spark the mood, but lipstick marks on a glass are not cute, and who wants to kiss a sticky, crimson pout?  For a date, focus on beautiful, glowing skin and try subtly smokey eyes with a lip-balmed mouth (we love L’Oréal Colour Riche Balm). If a date is not on the menu, however, dive right into the lipstick abyss! It’s glamorous and as fun as can be. We love shades of orangey-red and hot pink this season.

Whatever the status of your romantic life, there’s no reason not to look fabulous and have a fantastic time on Valentine’s Day! Try out a few of the ideas listed above, indulge in a few of those chocolates (no matter who bought them!), and feel the love.

Everyone's looking at BU Memes! Photo courtesy of BU Memes

BU Memes, a phenomenon started by Nicole Black and David LeHouillier, has become a runaway success on Facebook and gained over 5,000 “likes” in a matter of hours. Many popular memes like Scumbag Steve and Philosraptor have been used on the page, in addition to BU Terrier Kid, a squinting Rhett against scarlet and white. A meme-ified Boromir asserts that “one does not simply find a seat in the GSU,” while Scumbag Steve gets off the elevator on the 6th floor at Warren, and the First World Problems girl laments, “I live at West, my boyfriend lives in Warren.” College-specific memes have also been spotted on other campuses, such as Duke and Boston College, and seem to be sweeping across campuses nationwide.

While BU Memes has certainly garnered attention, it has not all been positive. For BU students who browse Reddit (the birthplace and home of many of the popular memes used on the BU Memes page), the memes used have often been viewed as not clever and misused. One Redditor asserts through a “Hipster Cat” meme that he or she had been making memes “since my other freshman year.” Some of the memes on BU Memes do indeed seem to miss the point by simply expressing facts about BU without any clever or humorous slant or by making needlessly offensive statements.

Truer words were never spoken. | Photo courtesy of BU Memes.

Whatever the benefits or drawbacks of BU Memes, they have certainly made a big impact on the campus in a very short amount of time. Only time will tell whether the trend will last.

Splash into a Sea of Student Groups by Briana Seftel

“Winnebago Man” Filmmaker Makes BU Laugh Out Loud by Noah Eberhart

College Fashionista: A Splash of Vintage Denim by College Fashionista

This video went viral in just days. | Screenshot by Aria Ruggiero

This video has gotten so much attention because it speaks about some of the things at BU that are not so great–things that are sometimes unspoken but true, to put it nicely. These can include the not so subtle jabs made towards CGS, the BU guest policy, the less than stellar dining hall food, and how those of us in CAS (like myself) know that the building was designed for people to get lost on the top floors. Other items mentioned in the video are very familiar to most BU students, like the Comm Ave Guy (really known as the Comm Ave Runner), the inconvenience of having a car on campus, and as for the “Who is Dean Elmore?” reference… he’s the man, to put it simply.

Together, all of the things mentioned in this video provide decent entertainment for any BU student, providing a 1 minute and 25 second break from the daily grind.

Although the girls who made the video really nailed a lot of the things that nobody would say at BU, they did get two very crucial things wrong. Nobody, whether at BU or anywhere else, thinks that Crocs are cute or wants to order from Pizza Hut. Ever.

This is an evil labyrinth, but there isn't even any David Bowie. Come on, BU. | Screenshot by Allan Lasser

There’s a lot that comes with a $50,000 tuition. Most of it, like classes and club funding, is obvious and easily accessible. Other entitlements are almost secret. The labyrinthine IT website, which many students only use to figure out how to connect to printers and wi-fi, is full of techno treasures if one can actually dig for them. Luckily, I’ve found two of the coolest and most useful services BU provides students and I’m going to lay them out, plain as day, right here.

1) MyFiles

Let's talk football, people. | Image courtesy The U.S. National Archive

Welcome to the BU Quad’s live blog of the Super Bowl. As our wonderful host (and die-hard Pats fan) , Julia Butler has put it, “It is Armagedeon.” The match-up–New York Giants vs New England Patriots. Re-match. Chris Walker, our resident sports man, and Allan Lasser, who still thinks he’s watching baseball, are following the 46th Superbowl.

Allan: Patriots won the coin toss and something just happened. This is The Quad’s live blog. Hi, welcome. Happy Superbowl.

Chris: Giants start with the ball and have only recently gotten down field, but have been stuff at the 40 yard line, so they have to punt.

Allan: He aimed for the ground on that one. Either a bad throw or bullshit, according to some football fans.

Chris: After the safety/terribel call, the giants are up 2-0 and currently have the ball at the 35 yard line on 2nd down.

Allan: That player’s name is Bear. Or Bare. Either way, I wish bears played football.

Allan: Where’s all the vuvuzelas?

Chris: First, fact: vuvuzelas are banned at most NFL stadiums. Very sad fact. Just like the Giants are now up 9-0 thanks to a Victor Cruz 2 yard touchdown. Now the Pats are up and need to make it happen.

Allan: I found a real video of bears playing football. Also, as a bonus, here’s bears playing hockey.

Chris: Wes Welker gets the Pats another first down which is woefully wasted on a run, with 50 seconds in the first quarter.

Chris: also, polar bears can show the most dominance.

Allan: BATTLESHIP COMMERCIAL. They didn’t say “They sunk our battleship!” so I hate it.

Chris: GET IT TOGETHER BRADY!!!!!!!!! 9-3 Giants ball

Allan: The guy who just caught the ball in the end zone Tebowed. T-boned?

Allan: A GE/Budwiser commercial where the guy says “turbines” like “turbans.”

Chris: First, very sad I missed that commercial. Second, Giants TE Beckum may have gone down with a knee injury after colliding with a Pats d-lineman, on what could have been a possible fumble. 2nd down Giants ball.

Allan: What’s a d-lineman? Some sort of d-list football player? The Kathy Griffin of football players?

Chris: A d-lineman is a defensive player who directly opposes the offensive lineman and tries to sack the quarterback more at amore direct position. Pats ball, 2nd down, 20 yard line and the Kathy Griffin of football players are the 2nd string kickers. trust me.

Chris: The Giants turn the ball over after wide receiver Mario Manningham bobbles the ball on a long play for a first down. Pats ball.

Allan: Just a heads up everyone, I thought I was invited over for a “Super Smash Brawl” party. I’m still a little sour about it.

Allan: I saw the aerial shot of the stadium—that thing is all indoors! That’s so much ceiling.

Chris: Remind you to tell you about Super Cash Bros. later. And the Pats are putting together some solid moves down field, with 65 seconds left.

Allan: I just saw the a picture of the trophy they win. It’s not even a bowl!

Chris: TOUCHDOWN!!!!! Brady throws a bullet to Danny Woodhead, to take the score to 10-9.

Allan: Everyone was screaming and nothing scary even happened what is this

Chris: Halftime, and Madonna is about to perform but who actually cares? Pats are up by a point and the the tension is going to stay tight all night.

Allan: Time for the super time show. Madonna’s gonna sing “Like a Virgin” and Tebow will run out on stage.

Allan: Dean Elmore, I mean, Cee-Lo Green  is wearing a black bejeweled robe. He looks like the flyest judge in the country.

Chris: Dear Madonna, I am so very sorry for my recent disrespectful remarks about your image. Except for LMFAO, you threw it down. Thank you. 2nd Half coming up next.

Allan: NBC just advertised the Superbowl during the Superbowl.

Allan: Dude with the dreadlocks just put the team on his back

Chris: Aaron Hernandez scores a 12 yard touchdown, sending our host Ms. Butler into epic screams and puts the Pats up 17-9.

Chris: Sterling Moore lays out Mario Manningham, forcing the Giants into a field goal. The score is now 17-12.

Allan: This is violent. Why wasn’t Madonna tackled during the Supertime show?

Allan: Can’t wait until one of these teams put flubber on their shoes to win the game

Chris: The Giants are on the 10 yrd line in scoring position and choose to run it for no real reason, even with three open options.

Chris: Manning gets sacked at the 15, forcing another field goal. Score is now 17-15, Pats ball.

Allan: Patriots are winning but everyone here is still stressed I don’t understand anything

Allan: The Giants steal the ball from the Patriots and get to keep it?! Football IS the American sport. #occupyFootball

Allan: Ninkomvich just got a flag for nincompoopery.

Allan: Fourth quarter, 11 minutes until Boston erupts in drunken riots.

Chris: RIOTSSSSSSSS

Chris: Mario Manningham complains for interference after Sterling Moore bats the ball away, leading to another Giants turnover.

Allan: I’m honestly surprised that people are not drawing hairy penises all over that yellow scribbly football thing.

Chris: Pats pull the old school trick play, with the double backpass flick, to Wes Welker to get the first down.

Allan: Pats marching down the field, picking up yardage with some solid first-down pickups.  Sick spiral on that toss. Real talk.

Allan: The guy just dropped the pass that would’ve been important.

Chris: Pats turn the ball over after two failed pass attempts with one pass being clear interference, no call.

Chris: Manning throws a missile to Manningham, on the sideline, getting the G-men a first down, but is being questioned for possession

Chris: Never mind–it was clean.

Chris: going into the 2 minute warning, the Giants are at the 18 yard line. All of Boston just became really quiet.

Allan:  Actually, there’s been a lot less ass slapping than I thought. Their pants are tight.

Allan: There’s a fine line between Shakespeare actors and football players. Colorful tights all around.

Chris: True that Allan. The Giants score on the touchdown they didn’t want, through a Brandon Jacobs touchdown. After a failed 2 point conversion, the score is 21-17, Giants ahead. Patriots have the ball at the 20 yard line and 57 seconds left.

Chris: Dropped pass by Branch.

Chris: Hernandez drops what could have been a first down.

Allan: I can tell it’s serious because everyone is either silent or screaming.

Chris: Pats get the first down, Brady goes the hail mary, but the Giants had too many players on the field.

Allan: Game over. Thanks for reading and watching everyone, hope your spirit wasn’t crushed into oblivion.

Chris: Game over, after Tom Brady tried to put up the hail mary. I want to thank all of you for reading and for the Patriots for giving us a great season. You guys put in work. Side note–what world do we live in where Eli Manning has more championships than Peyton? That shit cray.

It’s Alive: Arts Live Comes to BU by Kelly Dickinson

5 Napkin Burger Fails to Live Up to Name by Deb Singer

Every day that passes, I believe more and more that the Apocalypse is coming. The evidence is all around us. Snooki is rumored to be pregnant. (The suggestion alone is enough to make anyone’s skin crawl.) Newt Gingrich has requested that Brad Pitt play him in any future biopic. (I hope I’m dead before that movie ever comes out.) And every celebrity couple that made me believe that happiness was possible is filing for divorce. Heidi and Seal. Perry and Brand. If Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner split, I’m building a bomb shelter.

And there are signs of our demise on our own campus. Take these tweets from @TheBUBus as an example. A not-so-mild reaction to the newly released Shit Nobody at BU Says video.

YAY SHIT NOBODY AT BU SAYS! YOU'RE ALSO NOT FUNNY!

January 29, 2012 11:56 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@TheBUBus

The BU Bus

THIS MEME SHIT IS SO FUN! ISN'T IT GREAT TO ALL ACT LIKE FUCKING IDIOTS! WE SO COOL WITH THE INTERNETZ?

January 29, 2012 11:57 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@TheBUBus

The BU Bus

WAIT REMIND ME AGAIN WHY HASHTAG #BU AND @BU_TWEETS DIDN'T WIN SOME FUCKING AWARD FOR SOCIAL MEDIA?

January 29, 2012 11:58 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@TheBUBus

The BU Bus

OH RIGHT, BECAUSE NO ONE GIVES A FUCK.

January 29, 2012 11:58 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@TheBUBus

The BU Bus

The BU Bus Twitter account: Their account is fake, but their rage is very real.

TRIPLE AXELS AND TIGHT ENDS

Superbowl 46! 4 monster TV’s, free food and ice-skating! Free for BU students! http://t.co/uju1TD3P Right @DeanElmore ? http://t.co/9NVMlErH

February 2, 2012 12:21 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@theGSU

SAO

The most testosterone-laden day of the year would not be complete without…ice skating?

Students Warned: No Super Bowl Rowdiness, Or Else - WCVB http://t.co/2u0yggmA

February 2, 2012 9:48 am via SNS AnalyticsReplyRetweetFavorite

@BostonUnivNews

Boston Univ News

This sounds like the beginning of Footloose. Where’s Kevin Bacon when you need him?!

PARKERRRRRR, SEEEEEEIVE.

Boston University coach Parker issues statement apologizing for berating referee http://t.co/MKkRri61

February 1, 2012 11:46 pm via SNS AnalyticsReplyRetweetFavorite

@BostonUnivNews

Boston Univ News

The man barely speaks, and when he does, he has to apologize for it. Poor Parker.

THE FLU?! THE FLU IS HILARIOUS

Tuesday night and we've already received 6+ spec scripts for full-length WBB episodes. Let's shoot some and go viral! Like a funny virus!

February 1, 2012 1:05 am via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@WBBtv

Welcome Back Brotter

Which funny virus specifically? THERE ARE TOO MANY!

DUDE.

Who's ready to ball tonight at our rush event in the SAO gym? Kobe!

January 31, 2012 1:55 pm via FacebookReplyRetweetFavorite

@KappaSigma_BU

Kappa Sigma BostonU

Yea, boiiiiiii. Ballerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr! Up top, broski.

FORCE FED CARBS

The morning after Pasta Potluck... is anyone eating today? #SoFull #YummyDinner #sisterhood

February 1, 2012 11:11 am via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@AEPhiBU

AEPhi BU

Because you shouldn’t be. Water and bananas for the next week. #IJustWantToLose3Pounds

NOT TO TOOT OUR OWN HORN

we're in a trance, can't look away...soooo goooood!! ThanksMT @LauraBellz sliders with mango salsa, perfect http://t.co/vR72iWWu”

February 1, 2012 5:49 pm via Twitter for iPhoneReplyRetweetFavorite

@BUDiningService

BU Dining Services

Can’t stop looking at your own reflection? Exact story of Narcissus. Looks like Harry Agganis isn’t the only Greek on campus.

CHANGE HOW AWESOME YOU ARE (IT MAKES EVERYONE ELSE LOOK BAD!)

Heyyy! Interested in making a change at CGS? General Assembly Meeting @ 5:30 in the CGS Student Government Lounge.. See you there!

February 1, 2012 3:25 pm via FacebookReplyRetweetFavorite

@CGSsga

CGS Government

Change something about CGS?! NEVER. How could you even think that?!

HARRY POTTER – PUTTING NERDS EN VOGUE

Rumor has it the Nargles have their first team practice tonight.... but you can't beat what you can't see. #FLYBUQ #BU

February 1, 2012 7:28 pm via TweetDeckReplyRetweetFavorite

@BUQuidditch

BU Quidditch

And bullies can’t beat us up if we fly away on brooms! (Or can they?)

SUPER-BOWL WORTHY AD CAMPAIGN

Stop by and grab one of our flyers ! #smg #marketing http://t.co/TDgSQpMU

January 31, 2012 5:44 pm via Camera on iOSReplyRetweetFavorite

@BUMKClub

BU Marketing Club

Maybe it’s because they’re the Marketing Club and they’re professionals…but that tweet was super convincing. I mean, I just NEED a flyer.

BU TweetCreep: January 15th – January 20th by Liz Breen

BU TweetCreep: January 22nd – January 27th by Liz Breen

BU TweetCreep: February 27th-March 4th by Meghan Ross

Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons

This past Monday night, students of Boston University gathered in the Center for Gender, Sexuality, and Activism for this semester’s first meeting of Fem Co. Fem Co is short for “feminist collective” and the room was nothing if not filled with the energy of empowered young women. At the start of the meeting, students introduced themselves and gave their reasons for attending. The attendees varied in class year and interests, but one sentiment proved common – disgust at displays of misogyny witnessed on campus and around Boston.

While this feeling undeniably united those in the room, a discussion on defining feminism exemplified the lack of a singular definition for the term. All feminists call for equality between the sexes. They notice differences between the treatment of men and women and try to minimize them. There are varying strains of feminism. For those who define themselves as feminists, general areas of interest include socialization of gender, reproductive rights, workers’ rights, and rape culture, which incited particular interest at this meeting of Fem Co.

Rape culture is a climate that minimizes the tragedy of rape and tends to blame the victim (i.e. “she was asking for it”). Unfortunately, as college students in the age of ABC (“anything but clothes”) parties and Boston Barstool Sports, we’re faced with examples of the horrors of rape culture pretty regularly. The collective will take a conversation-and-action approach to topics like these. After passionate discussion fueled by personal experience, the women will answer the question “What can we do about it?” with concrete plans of action. BU sophomore and coordinator of Fem Co, Sasha Goodfriend said, “BU could have a more positive female climate. We should support feminists on campus and promote activism and awareness on feminist issues. Feminism is related to everything.”

The students who comprise Fem Co may believe in varying forms of feminism, but their common passion for feminine equality has the power to shake up the BU status quo. The drunken grope and slurred Allston catcall are fodder for discussion and fuel for action for these justice-hungry students.

Life as a Professional Feminist by Shivani Mathur

Forgo Your Fear of Feminist Fiction by Courtney Federico

Alcohol Task Force Aims to Lead Students Toward Responsible Decisions by Joel Kahn

A$AP Rocky turned in a highly memorable performance at the Middle East on Monday night. | Photo courtesy of Liveloveasap.com

Although a New Yorker by birth, residence, and lyrical boasts (“Harlem’s what I’m reppin” is heard in multiple songs on the album), A$AP’s diverse tastes and influences make LiveLoveA$AP a fantastic listen.  Underneath a quick delivery, which at times scarily resembles that of Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, are drawn out, syrup-soaked beats drawn from A$AP’s affinity for Houston hip-hop.

As Pitchfork reviewers noted, A$AP is not the most varied when it comes to his lyrics or themes: his concerns are almost exclusively about being a “pretty muthaf***a,” “reppin’ Harlem,” doing all sorts of drugs, and, of course, women. Yet where other artists concerned with similar topics wear thin after about two songs–50 Cent, for instance–A$AP’s ear for beats (the recruitment of Clams Casino for many of the songs has proved genius) and his general musical instincts have served him well. As a result, LiveLoveA$AP has received numerous spots on year-end best-of lists and has appealed to fans across the music spectrum, including this writer.

After downloading his mix-tape on the day of its release, A$AP became my new musical obsession; he was all I listened to while walking to class, riding the BUS, sitting in my room, etc. If a friend asked for a music recommendation, A$AP’s was the first and often only name with which I replied. It shouldn’t be surprising, then, that when I learned A$AP and his crew were venturing to Cambridge’s Middle East, I immediately snatched up a ticket.

After waiting for nearly an hour for the star of the night to emerge, the audience–composed almost exclusively of 18-25 year-olds–received the Harlem rapper with thundering applause, whistles, and chants. Any lingering anxiety from the long wait was erased completely with the rowdy opener “Pretty Flacko.”

Midway through the set’s second song, “Wassup,” A$AP ensured the crowd’s goodwill for the night’s duration. As a fan was being forced out of the club for violating the Middle East’s strict no-crowd-surfing rule, the MC called for the DJ to stop the music and yelled across the stage to the security guard, “Yo! Bring him back! BRING HIM BACK, MAN.” As the fan was welcomed back into the throng of fans near the stage, A$AP offered something of a defense: “Yo, I don’t know if you know this, man, but we from Harlem. You can’t blame us for body slammin’, crowd surfin’, or mosh pittin’, that’s jus’ what we do!” The crowd, needless to say, loved every word of it.

Next up was the very popular “Bass,” a song featuring the beats of, and a few shout-outs to, the aforementioned Clams Casino. Following his earlier summation of Harlem practices, it was no surprise to see A$AP leap into the welcoming arms of the crowd as the song reached its conclusion. There was never a dull moment over the next 45 minutes, as A$AP went through impressive renditions of “Demons,” “Get Lit” (during which he inevitably took a few puffs of a fan’s joint), “Trilla” and “Roll One Up.”

Conscious of “Peso”‘s nearly universal appeal, A$AP wisely ended the night on his biggest song. At this point he was visibly enjoying himself, thrusting the mic to the crowd and letting them rap; and rap they did–every word. With a cheeky grin, many thanks, and a few choice words regarding the police officers wandering around the stage (think of the NWA song), he was gone. An overjoyed audience, by this point exhausted and sweat-drenched, showed their intense appreciation as A$AP made his exit.

Undeniably it was a memorable night for all involved, and one that indeed justifies all the hype, praise, and attention of which A$AP has been a constant recipient since the release of LiveLoveA$AP. 

Andrew Jackson Jihad Play the Middle East by Kelseanna Smith

Middle Brother Madness by Kristin Toussaint

Dr. Dog: New Label, Same Stellar Live Performances by Bethany Reynolds

Stories of adultery in American politics are commonplace. Some politicians frequent call girls, others prey on interns, still others take to Twitter. The ongoing race for the GOP nomination has not been without its own revelations of infidelity. Former presidential hopeful Herman Cain dropped out of the race after an onslaught of sexual harassment and possible affair allegations marred his reputation.

Newt Gingrich and current wife/former mistress, Callista. | Photo courtesy of Gage Skidmore via Wikimedia Commons.

Most recently, potential GOP candidate Newt Gingrich is battling his own infidelity-related scandal. His ex-wife of nearly twenty years, Marianne Gingrich, has stepped forward to speak about her husband’s affair with his now-wife, Callista, and his request for an “open marriage.”

The Gingrich campaign extols family values, so accusations such as Marianne’s have the power to make a hypocrite out of him. Many politicians have been known to give into temptation–high off of power, seduced by money, weakened by lust. They deign to personal behavior that’s at the very least questionable, and at worst base and narcissistic. But what’s it to the American people? Is a man who seeks to be the face of America allowed separate sets of standards in his public and personal lives? Or do Americans just care about the facts, excusing personal problems and placing sole emphasis on political viewpoints?

A bit can be deduced from the fact that Clinton’s approval rating peaked just after the Monica Lewinksy revelations. Despite his initial denial of an affair, Clinton’s proclamations of guilt, regret and embarrassment seemed to have pleased the American public. In fessing up, he took responsibility for his actions, realigning himself morally and therefore regaining the people’s approval. Americans do not condone adultery, but they do appreciate honesty.

For candidates like Newt Gingrich, the tenuous path to presidency means maintaining the favor of supporters and working to gain more. How much does Gingrich need to worry about what his supporters think of his infidelity? According to CAS Dean Virginia Sapiro, who specializes in political psychology, the answer is not that much. If people agree strongly with a candidate’s political ideology, they’ll make excuses for their personal failings.

“Candidates’ personal behavior, whether it has to do with their sexual behavior, drinking or drug use, their financial or business lives, or religious behavior, has different effects on different parts of the public, largely related to whether the public is already inclined to support them publicly,” Dean Sapiro said.  “So you see conservatives who thought President Clinton’s sexual behavior disqualified him from being president excusing Newt Gingrich’s behavior–and probably the reverse–and people who emphasize ‘family values’ ignoring the picture-perfect qualities of President Obama’s current family.” Cynical though it may seem, the relationship between a personally immoral politician and his supporters can evolve into one of mutual hypocrisy.

In the wake of a scandal, it seems the most efficient course of action for a politician is to admit guilt, move on and hope supporters do, too. “When candidates are caught in a public opinion riptide because of their personal behavior, they have to look first to their political base to see how they are reacting,” Dean Sapiro said. “There’s no point spending political capital to get people who don’t like you politically to change their mind about you personally.” Marianne Gingrich’s accusations may alienate some of her ex-husband’s supporters, but in all likelihood, they won’t deter those who really want him to win the GOP candidacy. The moral of the immoral story: our politicians may not be loyal to their wives, but we sure are loyal to them.

Things Get Personal in Latest GOP Debate by Ross Ballantyne

Dr. Jon Krosnick: Climate Change is Still an Important Public Issue by Brittney McNamara

Photo Story: Chinese New Year in Boston by Kara Korab

All the sweaty people, where do they all come from? FitRec. | Photo by Patricia Bruce

Orienting to BU Fitrec is a series one-time post aiming to help the Class of 2015 gym newbies in the sometimes bumpy transition from high school to Boston University the couch to Fitrec. 

Boston University’s Fitness and Recreation Center (widely known as FitRec) is a multi-million dollar building dedicated to the health and well-being of BU students and people living in the local area. It’s the university’s glorious bastion of sweat, tears, egos and sleeveless t-shirts.

You’re also paying for it, whether you use the place or not. So it’s definitely a good idea to try the place on for size. And for better or for worse, it’s shortly after New Years! So make good on that resolution that you really should have made.

Unfortunately for those not highly conditioned to a gym atmosphere, FitRec can be terrifying. It’s populated almost solely by your peers and encourages you to look like a sweaty, uncoordinated buffoon at nearly all times. And if you aren’t looking like one, you’re working out wrong.

Here are some tips to bring out your inner Genghis Khan, to claim and conquer FitRec as your very own. Just try not to pillage and burn the place.

Survey the Land: Before committing to a workout plan, take a preemptive tour of FitRec and get an idea where all your necessary workout equipment can be found. Most popular workout equipment, such as treadmills, dumbbells, and smith machines, can be found in different places on multiple floors. Nothing says “new and confused” like walking around like a child lost in the mall.

Wear Comfortable Clothing: Fixing a physical insecurity is the number one reason people go to the gym, and fear of others judging that insecurity is the number one reason why people stop going. It’s difficult to muster up the tenuous bravado needed to ignore perceived social judgment; don’t ruin that bravado by wearing ill-fitting or disliked clothing. Or light-colored t-shirts that scream sweat stains.

Be Prepared: As the Boy Scouts famously say, be prepared. Don’t ping-pong back and forth between your workout and the water fountain; bring a small-rimmed water bottle. Eastern Mountain Sports sells wide-rimmed water bottles that will end up dumping all your water reserves on your face; recycling a 32oz. Snapple bottle works wonders. Also, bring your own motivational music. “Someone Like You” and “Jar of Hearts,” FitRec All-Time Hits, are better suited to sobbing into a tub of ice cream than exercising. Lastly, if you’re serious about working out, bring a notebook to record your progress from week to week. It gives you street cred.

Fake It ‘Til You Make It: If you are a girl using weights, someone not shaped like Adonis, showing emotion other than “manly” apathy, exerting effort on the treadmill, using a machine another person wants to use, or sticking out in any way possible, someone will probably be giving you an odd look. Luckily enough, their opinion does not matter with regard to your workout routine. So do not let it. The only time it does is if someone tries to cut you in line for something. Assume you’re better than him or her (you probably are) and stand your ground. It gives you even more street cred than a notebook.

Practice Smart Fitness: The more you know, the better off you will be health-wise and the more you’ll blend into the environment. Consult a personal trainer, do research online, and go on a regular schedule. Don’t reward yourself with a HealthyBlends smoothie if you wouldn’t have consumed those calories otherwise; you’ll undo your calorie loss. Unless you’re using incline, don’t walk at 3.5 mph on the treadmill; that’s typical walking speed down Comm Ave. Initially use basic exercises, push through the pain, tidy up after yourself, and you’ll look like a bona fide professional.

Ghost Hours: Throughout the vast majority of the week, FitRec is fairly busy. It can be filled with lines, intimidating body builders, and apparently everyone you’ve ever met in your life ever. Fortunately, there are several hours where FitRec is fairly unpopulated. Weekday hours from 6am-9am and weekend from 8am-10am are ideal for you (apparently masochistic) early birds. For you night owls, you might have to sacrifice something else: your Friday or Saturday night.

When the clock strikes 8pm on either night, the gym empties out. Maybe 15-20% of FitRec’s equipment is in use, and none of the judgmental gym crowd is around. The atmosphere becomes strangely welcoming because only the serious few are left. Think of it this way. While the mean-machismo men and the girls-who-cardio-so-slow-they-can-read-Cosmo are out drinking away their calories, you’ll be molding yourself into Batman or Wonder Woman. You are a dedicated superhero, and are therefore awesome.

Bring a Friend: Having a trusted cohort during any given gym session can make the awkward stares from muscle-jocks and elliptical girls far less damaging to the self-esteem. Not only does it tell people that you are awesome enough to have friends, but it also makes awkward moments less embarrassing and more hysterical. Dropping a dumbbell on your foot will create an inside joke instead of shame. Mostly.

Heading to the gym in a pair (any more and it’ll be impossible to get work done) is also an excellent safety precaution. Part of working out comes with pushing yourself as far as you can humanly go. Doing so will force you to toe the line between “maximum power” and “oh crap, I’m going to drop this bar.” Having a friend will allow to safely push yourself the farthest.

Congratulations! You now have the sufficient knowledge to model-walk into and out of FitRec with ease. As long as you keep going on some consistent schedule, your experiences will get easier and easier. Employees and gym rats will recognize and accept you, and the initial hesitance will evaporate into thin air.

If you see someone in FitRec who looks intimidated (you can tell by the trademark deer-in-headlights look), help them out. Build a community and kindly offer advice; you’ll learn that there are quite a few people there willing to do the same.

FitRec Open House Presents Special Opportunity for Faculty, Staff and Alumni by Sara Arnold

Orienting to BU: The Glass is Half Full by Jon Erik Christianson

Orienting to BU: Bringing the Bling by Jon Erik Christianson