COM Ambassador Blog

Ethan: Winter Survival Movie List

Boston recently celebrated the 2-year anniversary of one of the biggest snowstorms the city has ever seen, and it has me feeling nostalgic. I thought back on those days holed up in my Warren double freshman year, watching Netflix and eating popcorn, I wondered how everyone stayed (somewhat) sane. So I made a winter movie playlist to help everyone get through a potentially tough season in our beautiful town.

Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

Star Wars is perhaps the most culturally important franchise our species has seen – if you haven’t seen it, I suggest you take advantage of a snow day and marathon all the films. This installment prominently features Hoth, the ice planet. Many a meme was created during the blistery winter relating Boston to the remote planet.

Snowpiercer (2013)

After a climate change experiment goes wrong, the world is consumed by ice. The last survivors of our world are aboard Snowpiercer – the train that runs around the globe. A class system develops on the train, and tensions constantly run high. The film assumes the tone of a comic book film and is full of well-placed action sequences, but there is also a strong story underneath. The class divide is certainly topical, and with climate change as a central motivator, this film will continue to be relevant for years to come.

The Hateful Eight (2015)

Yes, it is 3 hours and 7 minutes long. Yes, it mostly takes place in one room. Yes, it’s still full of blood and vulgarity. People largely overlook this Tarantino film in favor of his more fast-paced movies like Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill, and I think it’s unfair. The story largely unfolds in a cabin in Wyoming during a snowstorm. A group of 8 – made up of bounty hunters, criminals, and lawmen, stay the night, (portrayed by a stellar cast) and violence ensues. Though this is not my favorite Tarantino film, I highly suggest it if you’re a fan of his quick dialogue and interesting characters.

Eddie the Eagle (2016)

This feel-good movie flew under the radar after its release, but it deserves much more attention. Producer Matthew Vaughn drew inspiration from Cool Runnings to make this story of an Olympic underdog come to life. All his life, Eddie Edwards simply wanted to compete in the Olympics, but he could never find a sport. One day, he discovered ski jumping, and the rest is history. The film takes from the true story of Eddie Edwards’ life, but it takes a decent amount of liberties with other characters and storylines. Nevertheless, I enjoyed this movie so much that I watched it twice over winter break.

The Thing (1982)

John Carpenter’s The Thing is easily one of the greatest sci-fi movies of all time. Coincidentally, it’s one of the greatest thrillers of all time as well. In The Thing, a research facility in Antarctica is invaded by an alien that presents itself as different humans. Paranoia consumes the crew as they attempt to figure out who is still human. The Thing has gone on to inspire a myriad of films throughout the years due to its creative story and iconic ending.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

I’ll confess: the first time I saw this film, I thought it was subpar. I was young and ignorant, and I simply didn’t get it. Recently, however, I thought about the story and decided to revisit it. I loved it. It will simultaneously break your heart and fill you with hope. The main idea behind the story is: What would happen if someone could erase you from their memory? The question unfolds into a complicated and remarkable story. The impressive cast takes on characters that all embody different levels of emotional stability, and it’s hard not to fall in love with them. I include it on this list because a lot of the movie takes place during the winter. Also Valentine’s Day is coming up, so this is prime to hit you right in the feels.

The Shining (1980)

This was obvious. The Shining is about Jack Torrance and his family staying in a hotel through the winter to keep watch over the estate. Jack goes stir crazy, and you probably know the rest. Kubrick’s Drama/Horror is iconic, and a must-see. Imagine not being able to leave Warren for DAYS, and you can easily relate to Jack.

Frozen (2013)

It’s overrated. It’s still very good though. (Note from the Editor, CA Megan: no winter movie list is complete without this film. Its all about sisterhood, and has a talking snowman. Also the most annoying Disney song ever, but what can ya do. Some parts are actually golden.)

L.E.: Life in La La Land

Unfortunately, I'm the first on the list of "abroad posts" so I haven't been gone tooooo long. But I'll do my best to share as much of my experience so far that I can.

So without further ado.....

HELLO FROM LOS ANGELES!!!! I'm currently taking part in the BU LA Study Abroad program. Although I have one semester left in school, I wanted to try out Los Angeles before I graduated so I could see if I wanted to stay after graduation. So here our Five Things about BULA/My experience.

#1 Internships

Most of my internship knowledge is New York-based so I did a lot of research on positions before I met with the BULA Assistant Director (the person who connects us to internship contacts). I knew that I wanted to work in Television and I love talk shows and development so that really narrowed down my choices. I applied to and got offered an internship at one of the talk shows in Burbank, CA. I've been here for a few weeks and don't even have enough words to describe how much I love working here. Everyone in the office is so lively and passionate about what they do, which is the best environment to be in. When looking at internships, definitely think about what type of people you want to be surrounded by because it can really make your experience even better.

#2 Roommates

When finding roommates for abroad, you can go random or pick your friends! I'm living with four of my friends from Boston and it's an absolute blast. BULA has a partnership with Park La Brea Apartments, which is in a great location and right by the grove. Roommates are great in LA because you always have someone around and if your roommates are like mine, you always have someone to go to Target or Costco with. Also another roommate PLUS is carpooling. One of my roommates is also on the Warner Brothers lot so we carpool four days a week. She likes it because it saves her some gas, and I like it so I can sleep in and get ready in the car.

#3 Driving

So speaking of carpooling, driving is pretty much essential in Los Angeles. I've never tried to use the public transportation, I just trust people when they say it's difficult. I rented a car from Enterprise and it makes life a lot easier because you can get to work on time and go on weekend adventures. If you don't drive, don't fret! One of my friends doesn't drive and works the same days at Warner Brothers so he just tags along with us!

So many places to visitCalifornia is HUGE. There are so many amazing places to go and to visit, it is impossible to be bored. We haven't done much traveling yet because it's been raining. Yes raining. BUT, I've driven up the California coast before and I'm so excited to do it all again! The weather is nice this weekend so maybe I'll get past Malibu this time. Regardless, there are always new places to visit and explore in California so make sure you bring comfortable shoes.

Food, Food and more FoodIf anything is thriving in Los Angeles, it's all of the restaurants' and the possibility of for amazing food. For months I've been stalking Instagram and looking for the best places to get reservations to and visit with my friends. Fair warning though as your list gets longer, your wallet gets smaller so choose your stops wisely.

That's my brief spiel about studying abroad in Los Angeles, I wish I had more to share and more time to write but if there's one thing you need to know about the program is, be prepared to be BUSY. Between class, work and explorations, you will never have a dull moment but you'll also barely have time to sleep in.

To my friends in Boston- miss you and hope you're enjoying the snow. I'm going to go to the pool now, bye.

Jimmy: A Plea for Local Art

On Sunday, I saw Hand to God at the SpeakEasy Stage in the South End. It was a play I heard a lot about when it first ran on Broadway, but I never got around to seeing it. This production was thrilling. The small, 200 seat theatre added to the intimacy of the horrifying, grotesque text. All the actors brought their A-game, and I even recognized one of the leads from BUTV10’s Paper Trail.

Overall, the experience cost me $25 and it is something I will never forget. With news of federal Cuts to arts funding and stories of cultural landmarks being shut down, this positive experience made me pledge to keep supporting the local arts scene.

As a college student, I’m always broke too. It’s difficult to allot money to things besides food and necessities. I get it. I often improperly prioritize my spending habits. I’ll refuse to buy a $10 movie ticket, yet spend $25 a week on iced coffee. The little things add up. And it’s disappointing to know that I would much prefer to enrich myself with a performance or new album from a local artist than a caffeine addiction. Sure, it’s easy to find less than legal ways to download music or stream movies, but if you cut the small luxuries and celebrate unique content with your wallet, it benefits that artist and the larger arts community as a whole.

Whether you’re Film & TV, Advertising, PR, Journalism, or any other communications profession, we’re all storytellers, and we should respect anyone who dedicates themselves to the craft–especially those in our immediate community. Here’s a list of ways you can get involved in the Boston Arts scene and celebrate storytellers of every medium.

Comedy

http://www.laughboston.com/

http://www.improvboston.com/

http://www.improvasylum.com/

Great WBTU show featuring local music

https://www.facebook.com/Left-of-the-Dial-WTBU-289651040961/

Theatre

http://www.speakeasystage.com/

Film

http://www.brattlefilm.org/

http://www.coolidge.org/

Information on discounts you can get with your BUID (including $9 tickets to Brattle Theatre, Huntington Theatre Company and more!)

http://www.bu.edu/arts/more-discounts/

Carly: 5 Films Celebrating Big Anniversaries This Year

Upon returning home after my first semester of college, I could not help but look around my hometown and feel a sudden sense of lost time. I knew it was fairly common to feel this way, and I knew that most college students experience the same nostalgia as they enter the next stages of their lives. Nevertheless, it seemed as if my childhood had come and gone in a blur and that I was rapidly speeding toward adulthood without any ability to brake. Time flies -- especially when you are having fun during your first semester of college -- but we can easily find time leaving its marks not only on us but on the things we love around us. My favorite films, in particular, were getting old right along with me, as I soon realized. So if you are ever feeling old, you are not alone. These great films are celebrating some pretty astounding birthdays this year too.

Enchanted

Enchanted is not the best movie celebrating its 10th anniversary. 2007 also gave us Superbad, Juno, Zodiac, and, perhaps most notably, No Country For Old Men. But I start this list off with Enchanted simply for the sake of nostalgia. The film is a combination between animation and live-action and tells the tale of Giselle (Amy Adams), the happy-go-lucky soon-to-be princess of fantasy kingdom Andalasia. After getting pushed down a well by the evil witch Narissa (Susan Sarandon), Giselle finds herself in the bustling live-action world of New York City, where she meets and ultimately falls in love with Robert (Patrick Dempsey), a divorce lawyer and a single father. Trouble stirs in the city as the rest of Andalasia quickly comes after Giselle--first her fiancé prince, and then the witch Narissa, who sets a plan in motion to kill Giselle to make sure she never returns to Andalasia. Ultimately, Giselle is saved by true love’s kiss -- not from her prince, but rather from Robert, a regular guy surely does not belong in any fairytale. They end up living their "happily ever after" in the real world.

The movie/musical enthralled an entire generation of children--along with several adults--and I am sure many fondly recollect singing along with Amy Adams to her “How Do You Know” number in Central Park. 10 years later, the children who loved the film have mostly grown up, but if you watch the film again you will find that little has changed in Giselle and Robert’s love story.

Good Will Hunting

20 years ago, the world fell in love with Matt Damon in his debut role as Will Hunting, a self-taught genius whose intellect is rarely utilized as he spends his days drinking with pals and working as a janitor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Damon wrote the screenplay along with his childhood friend Ben Affleck, and the two took home the Oscar for Best Screenplay, solidifying their entry into the film industry. In the 20 years since the movie’s release, both Damon and Affleck have gone on to enjoy very successful careers. Robin Williams starred alongside Damon as Hunting’s therapist and mentor, Dr. Sean Maguire. As Hunting comes to learn, Sean struggles with his own inner demons, and as the film progresses the two help each other fight through the pain of their pasts. Williams won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.

The story takes place in our very own home of Boston, Mass. -- and I guarantee, if you watch it again, you will easily notice and appreciate the various locations within the city where the movie was shot.

If you watch this movie anytime soon, do so not only to enjoy your enlightened sense of Boston, or for a young Matt Damon, or for the nostalgia of Robin Williams, but also as a reminder that even today the message still holds true: we could always do with a little bit of help from others, and we are never alone.

Titanic

Damon was not the only blond-haired beauty who had a successful year in 1997. Leonardo DiCaprio stars as Jack Dawson in James Cameron’s Titanic, a masterpiece film that documented a fictional love story aboard the Titanic. DiCaprio plays a poor artist who falls in love with Rose DeWitt Bukater (Kate Winslet), a first-class passenger who is unsatisfied with her arranged engagement. As the two experience the trials of a love forbidden by a division in social classes, the tragedy

DiCaprio and Winslet shared an electric onscreen romance. Few can forget the classic scene they share at the helm of the ship, Jack holding Rose up against the wind to experience a feeling of liberation she rarely enjoys in her stifling upper class life.

Though it celebrates its 20th year of circulation, Titanic will most likely survive the tests of time and live on as a powerful love story that will consistently pierce the hearts (and activate the tear ducts) of future audiences.

Star Wars

40 years ago, the very first Star Wars film was released, launching a film franchise that endures and captivates audiences still today. The original Star Wars, what would ultimately become Episode IV: A New Hope, introduced the world to the Rebel Alliance, a revolutionary force attempting to take down the evil Empire that ruled the galaxy. Rebel leader Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) hides the plans to destroy the the Empire's massive space station of destruction, the Death Star, inside droids that ultimately end up in the hands of ordinary farmer boy Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill). When Luke discovers Princess Leia’s message, he is led to ancient Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guiness), where he learns of the history of Jedi Knights, the powerful, supernatural energy known as the Force, and the fate of his own father, Anakin, who fought alongside Obi-Wan as a Jedi. Skywalker’s life is then changed forever as the Force calls him back to fulfill his destiny of helping the Rebels. The three movies provide audiences with an eclectic cast of well-loved characters and an adventure tale that will last for ages to come.

After a trilogy of prequels in the 90s, the franchise came back to life in 2015 with The Force Awakens, a sequel that will last two additional episodes. In 2016, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, a film that serves as a link between Episodes I, II, and III and Episodes IV, V, and VI, was also released. Star Wars shocked audiences way back in 1977, and it still enthralls first-time viewers today. The original trilogy is a classic tale of good and evil, heroism, bravery, rebellion, and love, and it is a hard story to beat.

On December 27, Carrie Fisher passed away, sending the world into a state of mourning with another tragic 2016 loss. Her charisma and talent will be greatly missed.

The Graduate

And finally, in its 50th year, The Graduate reminds us that the future is never very far away -- and it never ceases to evoke the same sense of distress within all of us. A very young (and very attractive) Dustin Hoffman stars as Benjamin Braddock, a recent college graduate who engages in an affair with Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft), the wife of his father’s law partner, over the summer as he avoids thinking about graduate school or future career plans. Ben ultimately ends the affair when he ends up falling for Mrs. Robinson’s daughter Elaine (Katharine Ross), who returns to school in Berkeley when she learns of the affair. A desperate Ben follows her to Berkeley, where he learns that Mrs. Robinson convinced her family that the affair was the not consensual and Ben had seduced her while she was drunk. When Ben tries to explain the truth to Elaine, Mrs. Robinson pulls her out of school, brings her home, and rushes her to marry a college fling. Ben races home and makes it to the wedding just in time to interrupt the service by crying out for Elaine behind the glass doors at the back. After a moment of hesitation, Elaine returns his cries and flees the church with him, escaping the clutches of her mother and hopping aboard a bus outside with Ben. The two collapse at the back of bus, grinning from ear to ear and elated about their success.

The Graduate is notably remembered for its final few shots -- the smiles fading from Ben and Elaine’s faces as the uncertainty of the future settles in. By capturing the few moments that come just after their “happily ever after” celebration, the film reflects the quandary that develops when the story goes on and life keeps moving. With a marvelous Simon & Garfunkel soundtrack, The Graduate is a film that all recent and upcoming college grads should watch or rewatch this year.

Megan: My Winter Break Movie Ratings

Winter break is an absolutely incredible time of year. College students go home to their families, eat lots of food for the holidays, sleep every day away, and catch up on all the movies they didn't have time to see during the semester. At least, that's what I did for an entire month. And, if you're like me, you see the same movies over and over again. I don't know how or why this happens, but I do know I'm certainly not upset about it. Here's my rankings of the movies I saw over winter break, based on the number of times I saw them.

1. Rogue One. Times Seen: 5

Yes, I have seen Rogue One a grand total of 5 times in the just over a month its been out. I have no excuses for my actions other than that I love Star Wars and that this is an outstanding movie. If you haven't seen it yet, go. If you have, go see it again. The richness of the characters is phenomenal, and its always nice to see more of my favorite galaxy.

2. La La Land. Times Seen: 4

It is going to be a very long time before I see this movie again, but I'm so happy I saw it. I honestly probably would have been fine after seeing it 3 times, but this is a movie I made everyone I know see with me. The movie is beautiful, and I'm excited to see where it goes with Oscar noms going up today.

3. Hidden Figures. Times Seen: 1

Oh can we talk about this movie?! So good. I teared up multiple times, but in a really good way because of how powerful this movie is. If you haven't seen this movie, go see it. See this over literally any other movie on this list.

4. Manchester by the Sea. Times Seen: 1

I will never see this movie again. It deserves so many awards, and is so fantastic, but will also drain you like no other. My mom and I cried for two hours straight during this movie. Go see this movie with a box of tissues and no plans for the rest of the day, because you will be tired and sad.

5. Moana. Times Seen: 1

Can we discuss for a minute how underrated this movie is? I've said it to everyone I've talked to, but this movie came out at the wrong time. It is so good, but didn't get the recognition it deserves. The music didn't catch on like Frozen did (which is a travesty), and the movie has some incredible themes. Plus, its beautiful.

6. Sing! Times Seen: 1

Coming in at last place, Sing! is good only because of the ending. So many bad things happen to every character in this movie, and I was honestly upset the entire time. I kept waiting for something good to happen to someone, but instead things just kept going south.

Tyler: The Untold History of Boston

Boston is a lot like ogres, which are a lot like onions. Why? They all have layers. And, no, I’m not talking about the earthen layers beneath our feet (although that would make for an interesting discussion because of Boston’s endless landfill projects). I’m talking about the complex, lesser-known history of this glorious city.

Last semester, CA Megan and I had the opportunity to take HI 190: The History of Boston together. As an avid fan of local history, I was very excited to take this course. We discovered histories ranging from the Massachusett tribe in pre-colonization to modernity with the Big Dig. If you are interested in learning more about how our city came to be, I highly recommend it. Anyway, I’ve gathered some lesser-known facts about Boston that may be of interest to you! Take a look:

1. Boston was speculated to be a lost Viking settlement

Sitting at the end of the Commonwealth Avenue Mall is a statue of Leif Erikson. It’s curious to see how a figure seemingly unrelated to Boston has a statue here, but with further investigation, one finds themselves looking into the life of 19th century Harvard professor Eben Norton Horsford. Around this time, some New Englanders speculated that there was once a viking settlement here but had little proof. Horsford became obsessed with the idea. One day, he essentially went on a walk in Cambridge, found some random stones that hardly looked like the foundation for a house, and claimed that it was Leif Erikson’s old home. Now, a plaque rests in that spot in Cambridge and he raised money to sculpt this statue. His theory, however, remains unfounded.

2. In 1919, Boston experienced its most uncommon disaster with the Great Molasses Flood

Killing over 20 people and injuring another 100, what seems to be a popular commodity became deadly. A distillery in the North End filled one of its tanks full of molasses on a cold January day, and it collapsed. A wave over 25 feet high left streets flooded and people coated. Doctors created a makeshift hospital to serve the overwhelming number of victims while volunteers searched for survivors for three days. The harbor had a brown tint until summer, and North End residents claimed the neighborhood smelled of molasses for years following. A plaque now rests at Langone Park in commemoration.

3. Government Center used to be Boston’s red-light district, Scollay Square

When you look at it now, it’s a vast concrete and brick jungle (though I congratulate the city on their initiative to revitalize it) surrounded by the city’s political headquarters. 70 years ago, however, this wasn’t the case. Scollay Square, as it was previously named, was home to Boston’s scandalous side. Vaudeville, burlesque, gambling, prostitution all existed here, especially at the infamous Old Howard Theatre. In a wave of urban renewal in the 1950s and 60s, the area was mostly demolished to make it what it is today. One of the remaining buildings is the Sears Crescent, which now holds a Dunkin Donuts and the iconic copper tea kettle.

4. Boston was America’s first subway system

In the mid to late-19th century, Boston transitioned from a predominantly horse and carriage-based transportation system to a streetcar system. Streetcar trolleys had complex routes and carried passengers from nearby towns into the city. Eventually, the streets became so chaotic that alternative transportation was proposed. The idea of an underground light rail caused controversy (Boston Globe articles debating the topic are online), but it was eventually opened in 1897 and served five stops from Boylston Street to Haymarket. The MTA, which evolved into the MBTA, became a major transportation system that provides over 1 million rides per day. And yes, the mysterious A Line did exist. It branched off from the B Line at Packard’s Corner, continuing down Brighton Ave and ending at Watertown Yard. It eventually closed in 1969 due to low ridership and was replaced by the 57 bus route. If you go to Watertown Yard today, you can still see the tracks that were laid over with concrete.

Katie: Being a Second Semester Senior

Caution: Sappy Feelings Ahead

Many of you reading this are probably still figuring out where everything is on campus, how to balance a meal plan, and how to make sure that you have an equal amount of Netflix and homework time (don't worry, so am I). But as I write this, I'm realizing that my last semester at BU has begun, and in a few short months I will be a college graduate.

It certainly doesn't seem real, especially after working so hard to transfer to BU after my freshman year at another school. It feels like just yesterday I was re-doing the Common App, submitting supplemental essays for a second time, and hoping to get into school here in Boston. I never thought BU was reachable, and here I am filling out graduation applications and thinking about inviting family and friends to my house for a celebratory party in May. I'm making plans with friends for post-grad trips to Europe (or maybe Disney World? Or San Diego? I don't know, I can't decide). I'm applying to as many jobs as possible while also scaling down on hours where I work now so that I have weekends free to see my friends and enjoy new experiences. Life is changing, and it's happening fast.

The point of all of this is to say that these four years go by so quickly. It's incredibly cliche. We've heard it all before: Cherish the moments! Live life to the fullest! Seize the day! But there's a reason cliches are cliches. People are right in saying that we need to cherish these moments and live life to the absolute fullest. To seize every day and take opportunities that may not come again for quite some time, or forever.

There's a line from one of my all-time favorite movies, Ferris Bueller's Day Off (which, if you haven't seen, why?). Ferris says, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." I'm taking this motto and I'm living it. I encourage you to do the same!

Hanna: The Final Countdown: Advice for Seniors from Recent Grads

I made it to my final semester of college and I am ready to EMBRACE IT. To help me get started, and to help other seniors who might be experiencing the same mix of excitement and uncertainty as me, I decided to consult those who are older and wiser. I am very thankful for the recent graduates who contributed their advice. Each one has set off on a unique path, but each shares the trait of inspiring an undergrad like me. I look at these adults and am gratefully reassured that while post-grad will not be easy, it will be an adventure to which I should look forward. In addition, they suggest that this last semester, and all of these four college years, are gifts, and I will definitely commit to taking advantage of this semester, my final Boston blessing.

And so, without further ado, a collection of advice from recent Boston University graduates:

“Take advantage of all the resources you won't have once you leave school. If you have a movie idea, you can get fancy cameras for free! Make it! And never get complacent! Stay focused on what you want after college and tackle it when you have free time.”

- David, COM 2015

“Be open to any career opportunity right out of the gate. Your first post-grad job won't define you, and frankly, you don't get to be picky just yet.”

- Kyle, COM 2016

“Go out and do the things you want to with the people you want to do them with before time/distance gets in the way. You'll probably never be this close to so many of your friends again. Make it count.”

- Matt, ENG 2016

“1. Go to senior week events even if you think they're lame. It's your only chance to go to senior week events.

2. Don't believe what people post on Facebook. Everyone's lives will appear to be perfect this summer and that is a lie.

3. You. Will. Get. A. Job. (Let’s say that again for the people in the back). YOU WILL! Maybe it will take some time. Maybe it won't be your first choice. Maybe you will hate it and only be there for a year. But you will get hired.

4. There is no shame in living with your parents post-grad and it is an INCREDIBLE way to save money if it's an option for you.

5. Keep in touch with the people that matter. De-friend the people who caused drama in your life. Accept that if you stop being friends with someone, it doesn't make your college relationship with them any less genuine.

6. You can change your mind. This is very important. Just because you majored in X doesn't mean you have to do X for the rest of your life.”

- Rachel, SED & CAS 2016

“Have a plan but be flexible. Know what you want to do when you leave, but at the same time let things happen as they happen.”

- Corey, COM 2016

“Make two lists. Make a list of all the things you told yourself you were going to do when you decided to go to school in Boston. Check off the stuff you did. Do the rest. Make a list of all the people you want to take with you into the next stage of your life (include friends, professors, people who aren't at BU anymore). Carve out time to spend with them. Make sure they know they are important to you now so it's easy to keep in touch later.

Also, look both ways before crossing the street. Twice.”

- Brittany, Sargent 2016

“Don’t worry if you don’t have a cushy job offer by May. You are smart, talented, and extremely capable. It just means the right job wants you to enjoy a little bit of your summer before you start being an “adult”. Embrace that freedom. I worked as a temp until landing a great job in September, and it allowed me to work flexible hours, volunteer, and visit new places I had never been before. My summer wasn’t focused on working crazy hours or dealing with a long commute, but learning more about what is important to me in a job position and what I want to really do with my life.”

- Maddie, COM 2016

“Use your BU ID for discounts as much as possible and try to start shifting important emails off of your BU address. Next, utilize BU resources because paying for the Adobe Photoshop Cloud is a really expensive joke. Finally, take advantage of Boston and all it offers. It's so different from any other city (for better and for worse). The only-in-Boston Snapchat always offers really cool stuff to do, and so does Thrillist. Try to get out of the BUbble (see what I did there?).”

- Jose, Sargent 2016

“My advice for your last semester would be don’t stress about landing a job before graduating. Relax and have fun, because you literally have the rest of your life to stress about your professional career. My advice for after you graduate would just be to network, as cliché as it sounds. I spent three months working some side jobs and just talking to and meeting with people, and for a while I wasn’t sure where it was leading. Then I met the right person and got a job in the industry. I think that sometimes when you don’t jump into a job right away and just give yourself some time, things happen organically. It’s just scarier and more uncertain. #characterbuildingamirite?!”

- Becky, COM 2016

“While I’m all for bucket lists, don’t get too wrapped up in trying to complete a list of activities you want to squeeze in before graduation. Of course you should go to all the places you never went or do the things you always wanted to do while in college, but don’t forget to spend time doing the things that made your college experience special.”

- Amir, CAS 2016

“Acknowledge that even when everything in your life has changed, you are still yourself. And if you know nothing else, you know yourself.”

- Rachel, COM 2016

“Don’t pigeonhole yourself and think that you exclusively need to find a job that is within the confines of your major. Don’t think that your major has been the only thing that prepared you for a career. Anything and everything you’ve done for extra-curriculars can shape your career too, and those things will be taken seriously if you frame them seriously on your resume. Next, it’s very difficult to truly listen to what other people have to say until you’ve experienced it yourself. There is only so much advice you can take before you become anxiety-ridden, so deal with the advice you have now, but enjoy where you are and face post-grad when you get there. Post-grad life doesn’t suck. Promise.”

- Lee, COM 2016

“Don’t stress about this last semester. If you are doing what makes you happy then that is all you can ask for.”

- Elliott, COM 2016

“I wish I knew that graduation was actually the beginning of something, not the end. Cherish your last semester and reflect positively on your college experience, but know that the real adventure is just beginning. It will be impossible to predict what the next five years will hold, but always be positive, forward thinking and hardworking and you can't go wrong!

Also, embrace Cranberry Farms while you can.”

- Tom, COM 2014

Joe: A Final Farewell

Well, this is it. After a very short three and a half years, my time at B.U. has come to an end. I’ve given you all my wisdom. Now it’s time for me to go out into the world and probably dump even more unwanted wisdom on you in the future. But for now, I’ll be stressing about finding a job and figuring out what I want to do with my life (fun fact: sometimes you graduate and still don’t know what you want to do for a living!)

COM has become a second home to me and it makes me sad to be leaving this place behind. To procrastinate my final projects and reminisce to make me cry, here’s a list of my favorite things at COM and B.U. that I’m going to miss the most.

Charles River Bread Co.’s Allston Asiago

Hot damn I love this sandwich with every fiber of my being. C.R.B.C. has my heart, my soul, my brain, and my eternal gratitude for introducing this sandwich into my life. For those of you who are true fans, you’ll know that I am (was?) the pickiest eater in America. The progress that has been made here has been exponential and it feels like a whole new world is being explored.

Convenience Points

They’re so convenient. Still mad that during my time at B.U., I was unable to get the fun nickname CoPo to stick. I think that’s a missed opportunity, but that’s just me. I guess I could use Apple Pay like the hipster in me says to, but it won’t be the same.

The awful picture on my BU ID

I’ve hated it since that picture was taken June of 2013 at orientation. And over the years, I’ve grown to love this dumb face and everything it has to offer. Sure, I could bring it with me, but it feels less insignificant without much purpose. But not to worry, there’ll be plenty of bad pictures of me in the future. Just keep up-to-date on my Facebook tagged photos during my early through mid twenties.

Free Food

The one thing that isn’t exaggerated about college is the amount of free food on campus. If I had a dollar for every free Nesquik I received while walking down Comm Ave, I’d have almost as much money as President Brown’s salary. Kidding…no one will ever have that much money. But free Domino’s pizza at events and meetings will forever be missed. RIP. (Can we pour one out for corporate pizza?)

COM Undergraduate Affairs

On a serious note, my on-campus job has been a shining experience in the whirlwind that is college. I’ve learned more in that office than I have in any classroom in COM and I am forever grateful to every single person in Undergrad Affairs (formerly and forever Student Services) for taking me in and making me a part of the COM family (especially Elisabeth…sorry Bryan, she made me do it). I won’t miss filling folders and answering the phone though…

This isn’t the last you’ll hear of me. I’ll be around, my spirit echoing through the halls of COM as the ghost of COM Ambassadors past.

Nick: Five Movies Sure to Put You in the Christmas Spirit

As the calendar turns to December, it can bring lots of different emotions. On the one hand, there’s the nervousness and anxiousness of closing the semester on a strong note, finishing final papers, and studying for exams. On the other hand, there’s the excitement and joy associated with the holiday season. If you’re anything like me, you’ve been listening to that Christmas Spotify playlist since the beginning of November. So in the spirit of Christmas, I’ve selected my top five Christmas movies (in no particular order) to put that holly in your jolly this December.

1. Elf

A true Christmas classic even though it came out only 13 years ago, I feel like Elf has entered the holiday consciousness of many. And for good reason. Lovable loser Will Ferrell grows up as a human in the North Pole raised by elves, and embarks on a spectacular journey to find his father in New York City. And as they say in the movie, all us “humans raised by humans” can sit back and enjoy the ride. Will Ferrell’s usual hilarity is there in spades, and as one of my favorite actors, his performance as Buddy the Elf just adds to my enjoyment of this film. Also, Zooey Deschanel’s Jovie provides the perfect foil to Buddy. You were probably gonna watch this one already, but son of a nutcracker, consider this a reminder.

2. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Raunchy but a pure delight, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation depicts the perfect Christmas disaster for the Griswold family. Chevy Chase is back as the iconic Clark Griswold, and the misadventures that he and his family endure during the holiday season are second-to-none. It’s become a Neville family tradition that we watch this movie on the first day of Christmas vacation every year, and you should make it a part of your holiday traditions as well. Filled with unforgettable one-liners and an all-star cast, this movie may not depict the ideal Christmas, but it can certainly help you have one.

3. It's A Wonderful Life

Nominated for five Oscars and ranked as one of the top 25 movies on IMDb, It’s a Wonderful Life is not just a great holiday movie, it’s a cinematic treasure. Hollywood legend James Stewart is George Bailey, likable everyman and long-time resident of Bedford Falls. Bailey is frustrated, and an angel steps in to show him just how much of a difference one person can have on the lives of so many others. If you’re in need of a holiday pick-me-up, look no further. This heartwarming tale has become a staple at my house on Christmas Eve morning, and I highly recommend it. It’s a long one, though, 2 hours and 10 minutes to be exact, but it’s worth every minute.

4. The Santa Clause

You’ve probably heard of this Christmas classic from it’s consistent run on ABC Family’s – sorry Freeform’s – 25 Days of Christmas, but I would be remiss to leave it off this list. Comedian and Christmas movie guru (Christmas with the Kranks anyone??) Tim Allen makes his first appearance as Santa in this installment of the holiday trilogy. He stars as Scott Calvin, a man who inadvertently becomes subject to the Santa Clause after putting on the big, red suit. It’s fun for the whole family, and full of all the joy and whimsy that you’re looking for in a great Christmas movie. The other two movies are great too, but nothing beats the original.

5. Jingle All the Way

While not one of the most well-known holiday movies, Jingle All the Way is a treat for a number of reasons. First of all, who knew now Apprentice-star and former governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger could be a holiday hero? Well he is in this film, and acting alongside Sinbad, the pairing goes on a Christmasy wild goose chase in search of the ever-elusive Turbo Man action figure. If you’ve ever struggled to find a gift in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, you know Arnold’s struggle here. It’s a laugh-a-minute, and the late Phil Hartman gives a hilarious performance as Arnold’s neighbor in the film. Add Jingle All the Way to your Christmas movie schedule this year – you won’t regret it.