WE- Alex Hubbard

Meteor Showers Bring May Flowers

Load the car and write the note
Grab your bag and grab your coat
Tell ones that need to know
We are headed North

Go with the flow. This is an idiom I hear all the time, so recently I've been trying to abide by it. Case in point: last night.

So, last night I was in the parking lot about to pull out when out of nowhere I see my friend Katy. When I asked what she was doing, she told me she was going to see the meteor shower. Now, this is the week before Thanksgiving break, so, naturally, work is piled on so high that you barely have time to do anything. However, I figured you only live once, and so in an instant I was ready to go to the middle of nowhere (aka Clinton, SC) to watch the meteor shower.

Katy, Michael, Cammy, Garrity and I loaded up Michael's car with blankets and away we went toward Clinton. Clinton is only about thirty minutes away, and when we got there we met our friend Liz, who led us to farm house to get away from the city lights. Once we got to the farm, we all put down the blankets and stared at the stars. It was so neat to be away from my dorm out in the open. It made me feel like a little kid on a camping trip, except better. Talking and staring at the stars, drawing constellations and deciphering the movement of the clouds was one of the best experiences I have had this year.

Somehow, in between our star gazing, we learned that when the news said the shower would come at 1 in the morning, it meant 1 Pacific time, and we were stuck waiting until 4 in the morning. Some people may have been annoyed at the mistake, and while it probably would have been wiser for me to stay at Wofford and study, I really didn't mind. It was cloudy and cold, and we didn't even see any meteors (although I think we hallucinated some), but I still had a great time

I made it back to Wofford at around 5 in the morning today. Needless to say, it did not make my 9:30 class very fun, but I survived (heck, I consider the fact that I went to class an accomplishment enough!). I had a really great nap later in the day, too, so that helped make up for my lack of sleep.

As for now, there is work to do. I doubt I will be going out on any astrological escapades tonight, so I think plans for tonight are a little more relaxed. But if I learned anything from last night, it's that if I have the chance to "go with the flow again", I think I'll take it.

Sometimes it's good to
Post blogs in haiku format.
Come to Wofford, you!

Auto-Tune the Blog

I am sad to report that my motivation levels are at an all time low. I love college and all, but it's hard to find the time, energy, and intiative to actually get stuff done. You see, motivation is as precious a commodity in college as money or a good nap. But eventually, by luck, the grace of Good, or a strange accident, stuff gets done.

Aside from my motivational deficiency, things are going well. Classes aren't horrible (although they can be tedious at times), and even when they are difficult I just remind myself that there is really only a little over a month left in the semester. However, this is somewhat of a double edged sword. I'm not ready for this semester to end! It feels like just the other day I got to Wofford and now my freshman year is practically half over. In the words of Dr. Bass, "What's up with that?!" Thursday I have a meeting with my advisor to talk about scheduling for next semester, and then next Thursday I schedule. I simply cannot wrap my mind around how the time changes around here. Eventually I'll get the hang of it, but I don't feel like that will happen any time soon.

In other news, the city of Spartanburg has decided to singlehandedly cure South Carolina's drought. South Carolinians everywhere are rejoicing. You can't drive anywhere because of all the dancing in the street and festivities.

Of course, that's not quite the full story, but it feels like it. It seems like every other day it rains. Maybe I'm imagining things, or maybe I'm just being negative and seeing the glass as half full. The only thing is, the glass is about to break with it raining cats and dogs everyday (Excuse my mixed metaphors here. I can be a bit of a metaphorical DJ in both senses of the word).

All in all, though, things are good. To all those applying to Wofford this week, good luck!

My family got a new puppy! It's no terrier, but I still approve.

Katie and I got mischevious with the RAs door.

Creeper Carlisle likes to watch me study.
 
 

Wah wah wah wah wah

No Shave November is here! Finally, a whole month devoted to the manliest of activities: producing a scratchy beard to display proudly to your fellow brethren. I, for one, am stoked for what’s sure to be an outpouring of machismo. It’s monster trucks and XY chromosomes from now on! Let the games begin!

 

Of course, life outside of the world of facial hair is still busy. This past weekend was Halloween. Unfortunately, the levels of procrastination I normally reserve for school seeped into my social life, and I was too lazy to be in any way festive. Therefore, instead of trick or treating, going to a haunted house, having my palm read or any combination of the sort, I spent my Halloween at Barnes and Noble with my friend Lizzie. However, I really don’t mind that, because I was kind of tired. Plus, I walked away with two books. While I never have the time to read and any reading I do end up doing is more for class than pleasure, I’m still glad I procured these new finds. However, this leads me to my latest complaint: David Sedaris.

 

I don’t think I understand David Sedaris. If you don’t know, Sedaris is a popular writer. Mostly he writes his memoirs, and it’s kind of put in a satirical fashion. His life is typically told through a combination of quirky vignettes, and each vignette is supposedly related by the general theme that David Sedaris lives an unusual, fast-paced, adventurous life.

 

I don’t buy into it.

 

I admit: maybe I’m reading the wrong book. But the thing is, everything is too unbelievable. I can take unbelievable, but the kicker is nothing is funny. Yes, it’s strange, and I’m sure the life of an expatriate is somewhat glamorous, but in the long run it’s awkward. And none of the stories relate enough to make a good anthology, in my opinion. I think the underlying thing that irks me is how egotistical someone must be to decide they are interesting enough to write about. David Sedaris didn’t cure cancer. David Sedaris didn’t run a marathon. All he did was be thrust into a series of strange situations and write about those situations in a way that attracts the average American reader (although I suppose the latter could be considered somewhat of a feat).

 

I'm worried that I’m turning into David Sedaris. Don’t get me wrong, I would love the wealth, the flat in Paris, and the virtual artistic freedom he has as an established writer. But when considering myself, all the things I dislike about David Sedaris apply to me! I write a blog of seemingly-random information, I try to be appealing (and admittedly not everyone will find my style agreeable), and I can be somewhat egotistical. Oy vey! Hopefully my case isn’t nearly as drastic as I fear.

 

Sorry for the minor rant. I digress.

 

To begin another mea culpa, forgive me, dear reader, for being slack and not updating for so long! When I checked my facebook this morning, I was startled to see this lovely message from my friend Cammy:

 

hey hubbard,
guess what. i checked your blog. looking for an update.
and guess what i found.
nothingness. its been a long time since fall break hubster. even if you and amna spent your halloween digging into calculus only to bomb miserably on the quiz (baaaaaahaha! jk i love you), thats still something to write about and no lie, i'm pretty disappointed in your blogging slackerage.

 

Whoopseedoo! To all, I am so sorry for my “blogging slackerage”. Never again. Je promets

 

In other news, I happened to discover the other day that November 15 is the date that Early Decision Applications are due to Wofford! It’s crazy to think this much time has passed. I can remember fully when I turned mine in. My advice to all is: do it. Take the time, fill it out, and turn it in. You won’t regret it. And if you need more proof, come on and visit Wofford. You will never know what a wonderful place it is until you see it in person! To all who are applying, good luck! As always, feel free to ask any questions about applying or college life or whatever. I really do love to be helpful.

 

And finally, because I’m much too slack for many pictures this week, I will leave you with music. I’ve become slightly addicted to music lately. In fact, if the caffeine in my tea could sing I would never need to sleep again. These songs reflect some of my favorites, and I hope you enjoy!

 

 

Adm. Von Tirpitz is so ready for No Shave November! (And WWI...different story)

 

Justin Vernon is a genius.

 

 

 

BACK TO FORMULA!?!?!?!

And at the end of the sixth day, the Lord created Fall Break- Gen. 1:32

 

Right now, the above quote isn’t in any Bible that I know of, but it definitely should be. After successively crazier and crazier weeks, I needed a break so badly, and Fall Break was the answer to my prayers. While I was surprisingly busy during the whole ordeal, it was the good type of busy, and I am seriously lamenting that in seven short hours I will have class all over again.

 

My last class of the day on Thursdays gets out at 4:00. Thankfully, my professor let us out early this past Thursday, so I took advantage of that surprise, went to my dorm, and literally jumped up and down screaming “It’s Fall Break!” I know it sounds childish, and it is, but I really didn’t care, I was just too happy. I packed my bags and off I went with some friends to the mountains! I drove my small Honda Civic up the mountain, and even though I’m sure the trek was unwanted strain for my car, it was amazing to see the lights shining through the trees as I transitioned into rural South Carolina. My only regret is that I didn’t take any pictures, but since I was driving it was probably a good decision in the long run.

 

After an hour or so or driving, we finally reached our destination: Up Yonder! (I am not joking; I was told this is actually what it’s called) Up Yonder belongs to Katy’s grandmother, and it was so nice. The house was very big and fit all fifteen or so of us comfortably. And, of course, the scenery was crazy gorgeous. All the trees changing colors and being that high up was really a sight to see. In retrospect, being alone on a mountain in a house full of teenagers is very horror movie-esque, but the risk was worth it, in my book.

 

That night, we decided, being hungry college students and all, to begin the quest for food. Said quest led us to Tres Caballeros, a small Mexican restaurant at the foot of the mountain. Once we returned to the house, somebody found a copy of Spiderman, aka Willem Dafoe is unknowingly followed by a movie camera. During our stay, many more movies were watched, including Pulp Fiction and Step Brothers, and while all were pretty good, I think Spiderman was unanimously considered the best thanks to Matt’s impromptu ad libing.

 

Of course, we couldn’t stay at the house the whole time, and we had to take advantage of being in the mountains and go outside. So, Friday, despite the fog and drizzling rain, we went out and explored the mountains. Seeing all the fall colors up close was really awesome. Later, we even found an emptied lake, which Line became very acquainted with (pictures shall illustrate).

 

That night, Anna made dinner, which was really good. Afterwards, in between Pulp Fiction and random music, we made a fire in the fire place and roasted marshmallows and smores.

 

Unfortunately, our time at the mountains ended. However, Fall Break was still going on, and so I went back home to visit family. Also, it was my mom’s birthday Sunday (happy birthday!), and so I had to take advantage of the break to do some birthday well wishing.

 

I feel like Fall Break was really what I needed. Looking back at what I wrote, my oozing optimism is a little bit insufferable, and I’m sorry, but, at the same time, I’m so glad to be refreshed and in this position again. Regardless, another mountain trip soon would be nice.

 

Anna Le: Maker of delicious om noms.

Story time with Matt.

Decorating cookies!

Exploring the lake.

 

Line before

Line after

 
 

While exploring the woods, Anna momentarily stops to do the "Thriller" dance.

SMORES!!

 

There Are Power Lines in Our Bloodlines

So far, college has been really enjoyable. While there may be a lot of work occasionally, I pretty much enjoy every week. That being said, this past week was the worst week of my entire life.

Okay, okay, I admit that was probably a little bit of hyperbole on my part, but the idea behind the statement still basically stands: this week was horrible. Occaisionally good things happened. On Tuesday I got to go to the State Fair, and somehow my laundry magically ended up folded when I went to do it (A little creepy, but I was too tired to care. Thank you, mysterious Greene Dorm laundry folder. I owe you). Otherwise, things were just horrible.

I suppose it's my own fault, though. Unfortunately, I believe in jinxing, bad juju, whatever you want to call it, and I just knew that by calling attention to last week's beautiful weather, I would screw myself over on this week, and boy was I right. The skies were constantly cloudy and grey, the rain drizzled lazily, and it was pretty chilly. Plus, all the trees only added to the feeling of being caught in a downpour. I felt like I was in a cheap horror movie. Wofford really is a beautiful place, so I felt bad for all the people visiting now that had to see it in such a crappy state (NOTE: If you did visit Wofford this weekend, come back again! I promise it doesn't always look like a scene out of The Adams Family, and seeing it in normal conditions gives a much better representation). On top of my weather-induced funk, a test in history, quizzes in Spanish, and my roommate being gone with illness really have not added to this week very positively.

Luckily, the weekend was better. My family came down from Indiana, so I was very thankful to spend time with them. I also got to go to the Tri Delt crush party with some friends, which was pretty fun. Plus, my brother was in town for a drama competition, and he won Best Actor for his role in Oregon. I was very proud of him, and very happy to see him, too. Despite having a good weekend, I'm ready to clean the slate and start over with this week. Plus, this week is Fall Break, and I am so excited and ready for a break!

Bienvenido a Mexico! (Thanks to Adrienne for taking pictures when I'm too lazy to carry a camera)

So Are You A Physics Major?...Good One.

During my time at Wofford, I have learned a lot. That being said, I don’t think learning should be or even is restricted to the classroom, and this week has opened my eyes to that. One fact in particular sticks out in my head, and I would like to share said fact:

 

Life at Wofford is a freaking jungle. As you may or may not know, Wofford is a certified arboretum. As such, the vast population of flora results in an equally vast population of fauna. Walking around campus with the flocks of birds and numerous squirrels and chipmunks, I feel like the male version of Snow White whistling for my woodland friends to come out and play. Just the other day as I was walking to class, I was worried that the numerous squawking birds above me were about to consolidate, swoop down and carry me off to some remote village.

 

On a not so literal note, life at Wofford is a jungle in many other ways, too. I can think of no better illustration for this than boys rush week.

 

As I mentioned, this week was fraternity rush. While I did rush, I did not pledge to a fraternity. However, I did participate in Bid Day.

 

Bid Day is such an event, it is practically a holiday here at Wofford. In fact, the whole weekend is elevated to such an esteemed status. While I am promising to relate everything as best as I can, just know that this is practically impossible. Basically everyone participates (or is at least invited to participate) in some way on bid day. All of the sororities dress up as different themes according to their pledge class (I don’t have many details on this, so feel free to take this moment to consult Ryann’s blog, as she is actually in a sorority). In the afternoon, everyone goes down to The Row where a tent is set up. In the tent are all of the boys who are pledging. Each fraternity has a different theme, and each boy dresses up to match the theme of the fraternity to which he wants to pledge. The Row becomes a sea of prison jump suits, overalls, and rain coats. One by one, boys are let out of the tent and they run to their new frat brothers and jump and are carried around crowd surf style. After, everyone jumps in a mud pit and then runs down to the fountain to dive in. It is quite the experience, and even though I am still tired and sore, I am eagerly anticipating next year’s Bid Day.

 

So, if nothing else, there is always something to do here at Wofford, and I seriously hope this is a trend that continues.

 

Exhibit A of Wofford’s diverse zoological life (or just a display of Homecoming spirit, depending on your perspective).

 

Proof that gravity does not control my life.

 

 

Pre mud/fountain fiasco.

 

The Shaw and France, after mud.

 

Homecoming Week

Fall is officially here! It's weird, because Monday it literally felt like someone just snapped their fingers and the Earth tilted into fall. I hesitate to say that it's my favorite season, mostly because I'm the type of person whose favorite season changes seasonally, but I do really enjoy the change in weather thus far. Each day, getting up and walking to class while listening to music and observing the change in light makes me almost want to go to class in the morning...but only almost.

My taste in music has also seemed to shift to accomodate the new weather. Now is the season of Bon Iver, Eric Whitacre, Ben Folds, Feist and more. My ears have never been happier, and my iPod has never felt fuller.

Beyond the change in weather, this has also been a pretty exciting week because it's homecoming! There is always a lot going on on campus, but it seems like now there is even more happening. Monday was bid day for the girls, and while I (of course) did not participate, watching the frantic, screaming activity outside of Anna Todd was definately interesting. It also seemed to be a precursor to fraternity rush, which is this coming week. Although I never thought I would be doing rush, I am going to, and I'm very excited for it to begin. I'm kind of taking everything with a "this only happens once" attitude, so I can't wait to make the most of it.

Tuesday was Trivia Night, so I went with Katy, Adrienne, Michael, and Garrity. It was a lot of fun, even though we did not win. There was free Zaxby's, though, which fed into my college-fostered love of all things free. I'm eager to go next week, and I'm sure the Thundacheatas are going to make a huge comeback.

Wednesday was Mr. Wofford. I'm not really sure how to describe Mr. Wofford (it's really something you should just experience), but I will say it was very entertaining, and I'm glad I went. I suppose the best way to try to relate the experience is to try imagining Ms. America but with more humor and machismo and less world peace and hairspray.

In other exciting news, I have been accepted to study abroad in Chile for Interim! What's more, I'm also receiving the 21st Century Boarding Pass grant so I can go. Let me elaborate, because I think these are pretty unique features to Wofford: First, Wofford has two semesters (Fall and Spring) and also an Interim, which lasts the whole month of January. During Interim, you only take one class, and the classes that are offered are meant to expand beyond the traditional realm of academia (a "quintessential" function of a liberal arts college, if you will). Another option during Interim for those that don't want to stay on campus is studying abroad. Wofford is great about offering a variety of places at which you can study (we are nationally ranked for the number of students receiving credit for studying abroad, actually). In many schools, freshmen studying abroad is a very rare idea, even to the extremes of being unheard of. At Wofford, however, everyone is encouraged to go abroad if they want to, and there are many ways to make this happen. For freshmen, you can apply for the 21st Century Boarding Pass, which is a special grant for (mostly) freshmen in 200 level language classes that want to study abroad in a language-intensive study. I am very excited about going to Chile because I really enjoy Spanish and I've never been abroad before! Plus, I'm stoked that I can share my experiences through the blog, so be on the look out for that! (If you want to learn more, this is the link for Interim and this is the link for 21st Century Boarding Pass.)  

It seems like time is really flying by here (I was even reminded that today marks a month since we've been at Wofford), but for right now, I wish it would slow down, because I am seriously enjoying myself.

Studying is an integral part of college life...and so are donuts.

 Trivia Night!

 What was left of "Free Zaxbys" after about five minutes.

Mr. Wofford: Please notice the various festive attire, to include the prison suit and snuggie.

 
 The epitome of kindness. Also, a good concert.

 

Exploring Wofford

 

[Insert Snappy Headliner to Attract Readers]

I'm not sure where to begin for this update, because this has been such a busy week. Plus, it doesn't really help that I get my days confused. Nevertheless, I shall try. The blog must go on, right?

I feel like the newness of college is starting to (slowly) wash away. This isn't such a bad thing - everything is still just as exciting for me - but I'm finally starting to sink into a routine. With quizzes in Spanish, calculus, and Western civ, my first college load of laundry, and my first trip home out of the way, I feel as if all of the "rites of college" have come and gone, and, as far as I'm concerned, that is a good thing.

School is busy. People will warn you about college being insufferably difficult and long nights of studying and the like; while it's true that everyone has a different college experience and I'm sure that type of stuff goes on, so far everything is very manageable. There is a lot of work, and it's important to budget time for yourself so you can complete said work. Aside from that, there are a lot of fun experiences to be had. Let me elaborate:

One thing that is difficult to adjust to in college is that when you want to leave, you more or less just leave. It's strange not having curfews, but it's an enjoyable type of strange. And I should note that anywhere you want to go is game, as long as you have the right people with you. In the past week I have taken roadtrips to Greenville, Boiling Springs, NC, and Charlotte. It's probably not always the wisest idea to randomly just run off, because it does result in long nights, but the experiences are quite worth it. The music you hear driving to a Podunk coffee house in the middle of the night with your friend's car's top down does not hold the same magical quality when you are simply listening to it in your dorm room. And being able to gawk at over-priced clothes while being scrutinized by a sales clerk is somehow justified by the hour and half car ride you just had racing to catch the last thirty minutes of a random mall. And even over-priced Chinese food will make all the backtracking you took trying to get to the restaurant seem worth it when you realize that you may have accidentally missed lunch that day.

But I should emphasize that you don't need to go away to have a great time or even see interesting things. On the one night that I got up enough motivation to actually study, the power went out! However, I consider this a very lucky experience because: 1. Justin and I were able to make a survival kit since we were near some power outage essentials at the time and 2. the last time the power went out, it was apparently out for three days (I admit this is just a rumor, but even so!) but power was turned back on within a matter of hours. Needless to say, we survived life without power, though only begrudgingly. Wednesday was pretty eventful too. David, Anna, and I made a huge scientific advance and actually created mass in the lab. I'm pretty sure ACS is going to be knocking on our doors soon. Also, I went to "movie night" with some friends to watch American History X. It is such a creepy movie, but also very good. And I do believe that the Power Rangers gummi bears only made it better. Thursday Wofford brought in a cellist, and I got to go to his performance. Not a lot of people were there, so it felt very "intimate" (as people say). It was really good, and I appreciated being able to expand my knowledge of music from the strings side of the repertoire. 

This weekend is sorority rush extravaganza, but I came home, which I've been told is a good thing because this is usually a particularly emotional weekend (this is my version of "good luck" to everyone rushing). I also consider this a good thing because it's good to see my family (and to be close enough that I get to see my family), and there is a swine flu epidemic at Wofford! AHHH!! I've been sanitizing like crazy all week (my hands still smell faintly of rubbing alcohol), and so far I am good (knock on wood). Even though the school is taking preventative measures, I still don't want to risk it.

And with that, dear reader, I leave you. Beware swine!

Young Italy is best studied with a smoothie in a random location.

What you will need to survive a power outage/the Rapture: a tennis racket, plastic utensils (also to be used for defensive purposes), water, Chef Boyardee, and a copy of Houghton.

Yo

Considering how in my last post I said virtually nothing about myself, introductions are in order. To begin rather obviously, my name is Alex Hubbard. I’m from Sumter, South Carolina and I went to Sumter High School. Now that the basics are established, I believe the arbitrary “random facts” list is in demand so you can understand what makes me “me”:

 

1. I have five brothers. This always shocks people, but it’s really not that bad. If anything, it makes my life very interesting, and I always have people I can talk to, too.
2. I’m addicted to tea. In fact, I’m pretty sure about 68% of my blood is actually Lipton.
3. I try not to let it show, but I’m very superstitious. I don’t mean this in the black cat/break a mirror way, though, but sometimes I have weird quirks. Example: I’m constantly afraid that when I tell people my major, it gives me bad luck and I won’t end up majoring in that thing. Weird, I know.
4. I was in IB in high school. A lot of people don’t know what that is, but when people do they typically moan or show some sign of pain. However, I can say I pretty much enjoyed it, and, if nothing else, I met some of the best people in the world thanks to IB.
5. I read a lot, and I love to talk about what I’m reading or even suggest books to people. Granted, I’m very biased, but ask if you’re in a slump.
6. Even though I think it’s incredibly tacky to use exclamation points, I use them frequently. Mark Twain rolls in his grave every time I type a sentence like this!
7. I love music. All music. When most people say this, they mean “I love all music except for [insert obscure genre here].” This is not the case with me. I will listen to anything at least once. Some of my favorites include: Deathcab for Cutie, The Avett Brothers, Manchester Orchestra, Passion Pit, Gustav Holst, Regina Spektor, Dmitri Shostakovitch, Charles Mingus, Lil Wayne, Johnny Cash, and Camille Saint-Saens.
8. I’m not good at the “would you rather” game because I take things too literally. It’s an unfortunate consequence of being a critical thinker.
9. I wish I was a better cook. I feel like I could be a better cook, but I don’t have the required patience since my favorite part of cooking is mostly eating.
10. I’m very nostalgic. It’s a shame.
11. I can be very OCD about things. Example: if I crack one finger, I have to crack the others.
12. I have a double jointed thumb.
13. I used to be in band and I played the saxophone. I was also drum major for two years. Even though I’m doing neither for Wofford, I do miss conducting occasionally.
14. I’m the first person in my family to go to college.
15. I try not to be a negative person, but I do have some big pet peeves. Some include: when people aren’t humble, when people try to flaunt their reputations/who they know, when people spell “alot” instead of “a lot”.
16. I try to use consistent grammar, but sometimes I’m just too tired. However, I always feel guilty if I end a sentence in a preposition, etc. and then don’t correct it.

 

 So that’s basically me. The way I see it, this blog is my way of relating what goes on in my life as a freshman to everyone else, especially those considering Wofford or even college in general. I love talking to people and answering questions about what I’m going through/went through, especially in terms of applying for and choosing colleges, so always feel free to ask me questions, because even if I don’t know, I will find out. Plus, I would love to know who is actually reading this thing. Feel free to add me on Facebook, send me a message/email (hubbardag@email.wofford.edu), or try to communicate telepathically (good luck on the last one).

And now pictures!

 

Laurel and Justin are stoked for Row night 1!

Fact: glowsticks are scientifically proven to increase excitement.

A band at one of the houses. Said band was pretty good. Notice the furious swing dancing.

Lizzie and I tailgating.

I love this picture because I am actually on my knees and Laurel...is not.

Someone has serious painting skills. By far my favorite.

FOOOOOTBALLL!!!! We won, too.

This is the official Wofford terrier.

Katy, Cammy, and Ben after the game. Also note the mysterious orb. Fantasma?

At Wofford, the beach comes to you!

"It's Friday night, and you're in a kiddie pool at a frat house."-Mack Estes