Making Noise about Silence

In honor of last Friday's National Day of Silence, the Uni Spectrum Club held an open mic today in the library. With great turn-out and even better contributions, this thoughtful, enthusiastic, and downright slammin' event might just become an annual tradition!

Club president Bella sets the stage.

Carmen the Brave kicks things off with her reflections.

Sophomore Emilie has a story -- and a smile -- to share.

Senior Sofia tells about a meaningful performance art piece she witnessed on a recent college visit.

Ms. Majerus weighs in.

Linus reflects.

Subbie Kate slams Gay by Brian O'Reilly, aka Bribry.

Ms. Green reflects on collusion-- no matter how small.

Ms. Majerus sets up one of her favorite poets, Denice Frohman.

Sofia shares one of Shel S's greatest.

The whole event might be best summed up by the last piece performed, Shel Silverstein's There is a Voice Inside of You:
                           
There is a voice inside of you
That whispers all day long,
‘I feel this is right for me,
I know that this is wrong.’
No teacher, preacher, parent, friend
Or wise man can decide
What’s right for you–just listen to
The voice that speaks inside.

Singing Solar

Today we had a visit from Illinois Sustainability Coordinator -- and Uni alum -- Morgan Johnston. Morgan kindly shared with us not only her time, but also her insight into the University's various projects and efforts to become carbon neutral by 2050. Best of all, she even had ideas for Uni, and how our community can help support and lead these efforts. Thanks, Morgan!

The Good, the Bad, and the Techie

In another edifying Skype session organized by the SSO, Uni alums Gloria and Lara made a cameo appearance on the library screen to discuss the pros and cons of tech schools. Now at Cal Tech and Georgia Tech, respectively, these two young women had much to say about their college experiences so far. For instance, did you know at tech schools, students might convert a room of a house into a giant hot tub? Oh yeah-- and the academics are pretty important, too.

To Tech or Not to Tech? These students want to know.

The magic of split screen: double the info, double the smiles!

Thanks, gals, for sharing your wisdom and your smiling faces!

Students Beat Down Doors for Agora Unleashed Session

Katie (seated) had to fend off at least zero other students for her chair.

Today's rousing Agora Unleashed discussion saw an astounding turnout of one (1) student for Peeling the Onion: The Art of Satirical News. Nicholas had a hard time controlling the crowd, but somehow managed to keep attendant Katie T. focused.

Though librarian Amy and GA Amanda also joined in, their in loco parentis status voided the legitimacy of their presence. "Amy and Amanda?" said Nicholas, "That's like the library equivalent of having your mother attend. They're like morally obligated to support you."

 

 

Nicholas, Katie, and surrogate mom Amanda work on their own satirical news stories.

We'll remember that come Mother's Day.

All Aboard!

Another Friday, another Agora Unleashed. Today's topic? Make It Train: Trainspotting and the Agony and Ecstasy of Hobbies, led by Uni Junior Jacob, aka MJ.

Perfectly timed with tomorrow's train show at Lincoln Square in Urbana, Jacob's talk focused on his lifelong long of trains and pursuit of the perfect train sighting. Who knew that trainspotting could improve your photography chops, bolster your driving skills, and put you in frequent contact with the authorities?

Thanks for an interesting and informative session, Jacob-- now, full-steam ahead!

The joy.

The beauty.

The police.

The Dragon v. The Birds and the Bees

The latest "Ask the Dragon" query posed quite the challenge for our winged friend:

Dear Dragon,

Why does sex have such emotional connotations in our society?

Sincerely,
Why-Curious

Never one to shy away from delicate subject matter, Dragon had quite the response. If you, too, are curious (and who wouldn't be?), check out the answer on the library board! 

Mind the Gap

Like many Uni students, Brigitte D. has forged her own path. Opting to take a gap year in Hungary, she is deeply immersed in another culture, building knowledge, understanding, and, of course, character. She was kind enough to share her perspective on her year abroad with us via Skype today in the library. Thanks, Brigitte, and enjoy!