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 are you today?
Penguins… do they have knees?
Yes. The folks at the New England Aquarium have a blog posting answering this very question (complete with images of penguin knees) at bit.ly/penguin-knees. (Did you know we have lots of books about penguins? Do a subject search for penguins to find them!)
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?
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?
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?
Is Die Hard a Christmas movie?
According to Bruce Willis, it’s not a Christmas movie, it’s a “G****mn Bruce Willis movie”. bit.ly/BruceWillisXmas The Wall, however, is inclined to disagree. It’s a great Christmas movie.
Why do I love PNB Rock?
Because he used to sleep in the crib, no heat on? He certainly keeps it real.
Will the Patriots be sad when they lose to the Vikings?
Apparently not.
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.”
Can we take down “Big Sock” by not matching socks?
The Wall knows at least one human who does that for fun rather than protest. Big Sock is tricky, though. If you have the socks to mismatch they’ve already got you. I’d think that any serious assault on the sockopoly would have to include learning to darn.
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.
Is Thelonius (from Shrek of course) the one and only God?
I mean, great character and all, but there’s a listicle you should look at: bit.ly/bc-ten
Wanna go on a date? ;)
Unfortunately, as a wall, I can’t go much of anywhere. But I’m flattered, and I hope you’ll still come to see me!
Why am I so clever?
I like this reply.
How conservative is BC?
![How conservative is BC? [Response: TOO conservative!]](https://library.bc.edu/answerwall/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/aw120318-2.jpg)
drawing of stress face
![[drawing of stressed face]](https://library.bc.edu/answerwall/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/aw120318-1.jpg)
How can I tell if I’m doing enough for my future?
Ultimately, you get to decide that, but there are lots of people you can talk to for advice – your academic advisor, University Counseling Services (bit.ly/BC-counseling) or the Career Center (bit.ly/BC-career). It’s great you’re thinking about it, and I trust you can find a balance between experiencing the now and working towards the future.
What is 2+2?
4. Why? bit.ly/frege-theorem
How come the water vending machines on 1 have been broken all semester?
It’s frustrating. They have had a variety of mechanical problems; at one point, Coca-Cola waited for a part for several weeks. I’ve reported the problem today, and I’ve been assured it’s being looked into.
Is it bad to drink coffee at 3 am?
According to this article in Science Translational Medicine (bit.ly/CoffeeZzz), late night coffee can really throw off your sleep patterns. I understand, sometime you have to stay awake, and coffee is very effective for that, but I wouldn’t do it on a regular basis.