How are you today?

How are you today?
How are you today?

I am doing very well today, thank you. Although I understand it is a bit chilly outside, I am warm in here and I can see a bit of sunshine, as well as lots of busy students. I like that! Hope you are well today also.

How do I get to the bell tower in Gasson?

How do I get to the bell tower in Gasson?
How do I get to the bell tower in Gasson?

Gasson Hall was always a little tight-lipped but got even more so after the renovation in 2007 when its bells were silenced temporarily. Since Gasson isn’t talking, I’ve had my assistants poke around a little. There’s a clue in this Boston College Magazine alumni-submitted story: bit.ly/bells-clue, but as the story predates the renovation, there might not be a door ajar, and you’d probably still have to watch out for the laser-activated alarm. I recommend getting a campus job with facilities. Those folks know everything. But you’ll have to earn their trust before they share.

How much does GPA really matter?

How much does GPA really matter?
How much does GPA really matter?

Very little in certain contexts; unfortunately a whole lot in a few others. If your plan is med school or some (not all) other graduate programs, or working for certain big-name firms, a high GPA is generally a requirement. Freelance writer, not so much! Also, once you have entered the job market and have a proven track record of competence, it is far less of a factor. Talk to the nice folks at the Career Center (bit.ly/BC-career) if you want more detail on how your grades might affect your career.

How can I be the Wall?

How can I be the Wall?
How can I be the Wall?

First, sit very very still. I have the advantage of not having to breathe, eat, drink, or go anywhere, but you can certainly be wall-like for short periods. Then listen very carefully. When there is a question, don’t be hasty in answering. Understand the question from many perspectives and in many contexts. Do this with compassion and empathy. Seek input from many people living and dead. (By “dead,” I mean books and articles.) Then compose your answer, attentive to the humanity behind the question. #ohwait, did you mean you want to answer questions here, with me? Hm… what do people think about a be-the-wall competition?

Why do we not have an LGBTQ+ Resource Center, and why are admin. not educated on LGBTQ+ topics?

Why do we not have an LGBTQ+ Resource Center, and why are admin. not educated on LGBTQ+ topics?
Why do we not have an LGBTQ+ Resource Center, and why are admin. not educated on LGBTQ+ topics?

The Office of the Dean of Students offers “support, education, outreach, programs, and opportunities” for LGBTQ+ according to the brochures just to the left of me. If you see shortcomings or think those offerings are insufficient, please reach out to them. The Dean of Students, Tom Morgan, said: “contact us at 617-552-8574 or stop by Maloney 448.”

What should I get my mom for Christmas?

What should I get my mom for Christmas?
What should I get my mom for Christmas?

The Wall likes that you’re thinking about your mom. If she’s someone who doesn’t need (or want) any stuff, how about an experience — a gift certificate to a tea house, or the fun local brunch place? If she’s sporty — tickets to a sporting event. Or concert tickets (The Rolling Stones are going on tour). Or a membership to a local museum. Giving in her honor to a charity is another option, for example: Heifer Project International (heifer.org/gift-catalog). If you prefer to go the traditional route, my helpers tell me that cashmere is always a winner.

How conservative is BC?

How conservative is BC? [Response: TOO conservative!]
How conservative is BC? [Response: TOO conservative!]
Students over the years have commented on this topic on online sites and in The Heights. Some think BC is conservative and some think it’s liberal. So it seems if you look at a continuum with radical liberal on one end and ultra-conservative on the other, BC would fall right in the middle, straddling both viewpoints but without a lot of examples of conspicuous expression. While it may sometimes be frustrating to those who are passionate about such things, this kind of open-minded environment can also afford an opportunity to more easily communicate with and understand those with differing opinions.

drawing of stress face

[drawing of stressed face]
(๑’Δ’๑) [drawing of stress face]
It’s a stressful time of the year. Wishing you peace and strength and calm. If you’re finding it overwhelming, please do contact Counseling Services (bit.ly/BC-counseling) or if you need a quick bit of help from a non-professional volunteer, you can try this free text-based counseling (not a BC service, available to anyone):: www.crisistextline.org/texting-in/. <3 <3 <3