Serena Soh – The Stanford Daily https://stanforddaily.com Breaking news from the Farm since 1892 Sat, 09 Jun 2018 18:56:51 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://stanforddaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/cropped-DailyIcon-CardinalRed.png?w=32 Serena Soh – The Stanford Daily https://stanforddaily.com 32 32 204779320 A letter to my fall quarter self https://stanforddaily.com/2018/06/06/a-letter-to-my-fall-quarter-self/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/06/06/a-letter-to-my-fall-quarter-self/#respond Wed, 06 Jun 2018 18:56:26 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1141984 Dear Fall Quarter Serena,   As the year wraps up, I’ve been doing quite a bit of reflection. Honestly, it’s one of my ways of pushing off the studying that must be done before finals, but let’s just agree that it’s a productive use of time. College has been everything you thought it would be for […]

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Dear Fall Quarter Serena,

 

As the year wraps up, I’ve been doing quite a bit of reflection. Honestly, it’s one of my ways of pushing off the studying that must be done before finals, but let’s just agree that it’s a productive use of time. College has been everything you thought it would be for the most part, besides the fact that there was more late night snacking and opportunities to meet interesting people than you anticipated. You’ve learned a lot, improved in so many ways and tried things you never thought you would. And though all these experiences have been quite good for you, currently speaking, I really can’t wait to pack up, take a break from classes for a few months and join my friends already on vacation. As of now, I feel utterly over it all. Call me an introvert, but I truly can’t wait for the moment I get to be in my own room at home, in my non-creaky bed, and catch up on Netflix shows with my dog by my side. Anyways, before I get to experience the comfort of being home and officially finish my freshman year, I thought it would be a good idea to share what I’ve reflected upon up until now.

The most important lesson I think I’ve come to realize is that everything works itself out. Grades, social conflicts, club issues — they all don’t matter as much as you think they do in the moment. For example, in terms of  academics, I’ve learned that classes are truly an opportunity for you to learn for yourself and not anyone else; you will eventually get what you put into each class in terms of effort and time. Seriously, it’s not like high school where a bad grade is “the end of the world.”

In fact, let’s remember the unfortunate event that occured during winter quarter in your Stats class. You were so nervous about taking that class because you went in knowing nobody, your Stats skills were very obviously rusty and your textbook for the class was a cryptic, futuristic cartoon style book including the adventure of some cat. And on top of that, there were weekly p-sets involving a coding language you had never even heard of before, and there were frequent in-class quizzes instead of a midterm or final. I was intimidated and anxious from the start to say least, but I was also ready to pull my act together after an academically hectic fall quarter. Long story short, there was one time when I completely forgot and stupidly slept through an in-class quiz (as it was pushed back to be due later in the day) and earned a solid zero. I’m not going to lie, it induced a lot of stress as it happened literally two weeks into the quarter — fourteen days after I promised myself I would pull myself together. But as always, in the end it all worked itself out. That’s what’s funny in college and I guess in life — things end up just fine, no matter how terrible they seem in the moment. I was aware that this was a lesson I had to learn eventually, but I never thought I would value it this much after my first year at Stanford.

A few other random tidbits you’ve discovered along the way include: 1) Chem is annoying. 2) Writing is actually fun! 3) Running seems terrible, but is essential for your sanity. 4) You’re a peanut butter and banana addict. 5) You’ve made some pretty awesome friends. 6) You should go to the Tressider Farmer’s market more often. 7) P-set partners are life-savers.

 

Much love,

Serena

*Note for current students: I know that this time of the quarter can be busy and grueling for students, especially when the glorious promise of a relaxing summer is waiting on the other side. But don’t forget to take a moment to remember or record everything you’ve accomplished and learned these past quarters, because I’m sure you’ll end up impressing yourself with how much you’ve grown and experienced this school year. We’re almost there!
Contact Serena Soh at sjsoh ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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Dining hall hacks: the versatility of toast https://stanforddaily.com/2018/05/30/dining-hall-hacks-the-versatility-of-toast/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/05/30/dining-hall-hacks-the-versatility-of-toast/#respond Thu, 31 May 2018 00:53:38 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1141783 Every day, we’re greeted by the same procession of scrambled eggs, pastries, fruit and oatmeal for breakfast. Then for lunch, there’s the salad bar, soups, burgers and the hot food line. Though the changing lunch menu provides more diversity in terms of what cuisine is served, the menu will inevitably repeat itself. But the good […]

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Every day, we’re greeted by the same procession of scrambled eggs, pastries, fruit and oatmeal for breakfast. Then for lunch, there’s the salad bar, soups, burgers and the hot food line. Though the changing lunch menu provides more diversity in terms of what cuisine is served, the menu will inevitably repeat itself. But the good news is that because there are so many options, you can start creating your own meals using the ingredients provided by the dining hall. For example, a food that we have access to at nearly every meal is: toast. Here are a few ways to dress up an average slice of bread to give yourself a break from the same old meals.

If you’re the type of person who craves something sweet in the morning, try customizing your own piece of toast. With your slice of toasted bread, slather on some peanut butter and sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes or mini chocolate chips from the oatmeal toppings bar. If you are looking for something more crunchy, take the peanut-buttered toast and top it with granola, cinnamon or nutrient-rich flaxseed powder, and banana slices. There’s also the classic option of indulging in a PB&J or PB and honey sandwich, to which you can try adding some golden raisins and coconut flakes. On the other hand, if you aren’t a fan of peanut butter, try spreading some cream cheese with a dollop of jam on your toast. It’s a great alternative along with the other flavored cream cheeses. There’s also the option of buttering a piece of toast and topping it with banana slices, brown sugar and cinnamon.

For those who prefer savory foods, you could go for the typical breakfast sandwich with a toasted bagel, cream cheese, scrambled eggs and bacon. Or you could add spinach, cucumbers and tomato slices to whole wheat toast slathered in cream cheese. Similar to the oatmeal toppings bar, there is usually a bar of assorted cream cheeses, capers and vegetables available in the morning. If the individual components don’t seem appealing, they can be added to your favorite toast combinations for a new culinary creation.

If you don’t wake up in time for breakfast, there’s still a chance to make a delicious piece of toast at lunch! Unfortunately, there are no topping bars at lunch, but there are still useable ingredients. For instance, if you’re in Stern, there’s normally fresh guacamole in the burrito bowl bar. Grab a piece of toast, add some olive oil to it, spread on the avocado and season it with salt, pepper or lemon juice; for some protein, slice up a boiled egg. If your dining hall offers hummus, use that instead of guacamole, and you can add some greens and sliced olives. Or, if you’re craving pizza bagels, you can surprisingly re-create a version with dining hall foods. Toast one of the round pieces of bread (either an English muffin or the whole wheat thins) and spread on some marinara sauce from the pasta bar. Then add shredded or sliced cheese (whatever is available) and stick it in the microwave for the cheese to melt. (Not all dining halls have microwaves available, but the dorm’s kitchenette is always an alternative.) Of course it’s not exactly the same as the delicious pizza bagels from the frozen foods aisle, but you do have to admit that the fact it can be assembled using dining hall ingredients is quite appealing.

Eating the same dining hall food for three quarters straight can be quite repetitive, and even if we do have access to a kitchen, it’s difficult and time consuming to shop for ingredients, prep, cook and then clean. This is why it can be fun to create your own meals using ingredients from the dining hall. With so many options in each dining hall, there’s bound to be some delicious, creative way to incorporate them together, regardless of whether you use toast as the vehicle — the key is to be resourceful. If you have any “dining hall hacks” of your own, please share!

 

Got any other dining hall hacks? Contact Serena Soh at sjsoh ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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Quick and easy eateries off campus https://stanforddaily.com/2018/05/29/quick-and-easy-eateries-off-campus/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/05/29/quick-and-easy-eateries-off-campus/#respond Tue, 29 May 2018 08:16:30 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1141642 We all know what it feels like to be bored by a repetitive dining hall menu. But by now, most of us have realized that our wallets will suffer by indulging in dinner at a sit-down restaurant once a week. And if you’re anything like me and my friends, deciding on where to eat out is often […]

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We all know what it feels like to be bored by a repetitive dining hall menu. But by now, most of us have realized that our wallets will suffer by indulging in dinner at a sit-down restaurant once a week. And if you’re anything like me and my friends, deciding on where to eat out is often a struggle, whether that’s because of indecisiveness or conflicting schedules. So, here is a compilation of some local places that are perfect for a quick and easy bite, with meal prices ranging from $5 – $15.

 

Izzy’s Brooklyn Bagels

If you love bread, carbs, bagels, breakfast foods, etc., Izzy’s is a place you have to visit. Open from 6am-3pm on the weekends, this establishment runs on efficiency — even during peak hours the line moves quite quickly. There are options for people who like their bagels plain or with special cream cheese or in a full on breakfast sandwich. The bagels are baked fresh daily and though you might have been satisfied with dining hall, a visit to Izzy’s will change your whole perspective. Simultaneously fluffy and toasted to perfection with a healthy slab of strawberry cream cheese or a pile of lox, I honestly wouldn’t even mind waking up early just for these bagels. The bagel sandwiches all run under $10 and they are guaranteed to keep you full well into lunch time.

 

Mediterranean Wraps

Mediterranean Wraps offers an equally as delicious choice as Oren’s Hummus on University Ave, but at a friendlier price. The establishment is extremely well run, the staff is friendly and the restaurant also caters to customers who need a grab-and-go dinner. In simple terms, this restaurant is like a high-end Chipotle for falafels and shawarma. If you do enjoy swirls of bold spices on your palette, this is the place for you. I love the $14 shawarma plate, which is a heaping portion of lamb and beef slices accompanied with a citric salad and hot pita bread (Warning: there’ll most likely be left overs!).  It’s the perfect comfort food when you’re in a hurry and easy to share, if you’re not feeling starved. And don’t be surprised if the owner hands you falafels (fresh out of the fryer!) as you wait in line to pay.

 

Fleming’s Steakhouse

Under normal circumstance, an extremely upscale restaurant like Fleming’s is a place that no average college student should even think about entering. In fact it’s even feels weird for me to include this restaurant in this list. However, I’m here to let you in on the most prized secret: Happy Hour. Now, this isn’t your typical happy hour where drinks and appetizers are just two dollars off. The star of the Happy Hour menu, in fact, is the $10 Prime Burger — a full sized, juicy, amazing quality burger complete with slices of peppered bacon. From 5-7pm everyday, Fleming’s offers this along with a other choices like ravioli, calamari and flat bread that range from $6-10. The only caveat is that you have to wait by the bar seating area to snag a table, but I do have to say that this is easily the best deal in town if you’re craving a succulent, classic American burger.

 

Teaspoon

After trying places like Sharetea, Gong Cha, T4, and Pop Tea Bar, I have to say that Teaspoon is my all-time favorite boba place. The variety on the menu is quite diverse as they offer drinks like “Sweet Marshmallow” to “Grasshopper” and the fact that they are so delicious makes the $5 you pay per drink worth it. If you’re not a boba type of person, they have a selection of jellies/ other drink toppings you can choose from as well as the option of ordering their specialty snows. Kind of like a snow cone crossed with  ice cream, these fluffy snows won’t disappoint. More pros to Teaspoon is that they’re opened until 11pm (later than most places!) and only a quick zip-car ride away — making for the perfect study break when you need a sugary pick-me-up.

 

Contact Serena Soh at sjsoh ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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Sunday farmer’s market https://stanforddaily.com/2018/05/24/sunday-farmers-market/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/05/24/sunday-farmers-market/#respond Thu, 24 May 2018 11:10:03 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1141486 Growing up in a SoCal town blessed with perfect weather for growing produce, I always looked forward to my family’s weekly trip to the local farmer’s market. Every Sunday from mid-morning to early afternoon, booths were set up along a walkway situated between the gigantic Costco parking lot and a medley of restaurants. Excited vendors […]

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Growing up in a SoCal town blessed with perfect weather for growing produce, I always looked forward to my family’s weekly trip to the local farmer’s market. Every Sunday from mid-morning to early afternoon, booths were set up along a walkway situated between the gigantic Costco parking lot and a medley of restaurants. Excited vendors representing their family-owned enterprises shouted out their fantastic deals and offered a range of products from spicy apricot jam to fresh jalapeño goat cheese to jars of locally sourced apple honey to hefty butternut squashes. It was quite the treat for each one of your senses: the sweet samples of fruit, the bustling locals visiting each stall, the vibrant produce and the vendors’ booming voices. It was such a popular excursion destination that not recognizing a single familiar face at the market was rare. In fact, I’ve come to believe that this pop-up market is a staple of our small town’s community, even though it only exists for a few hours each week and disassembles within minutes.

These Sunday markets are one of the many, many things I miss about my hometown, which is why I was ecstatic to learn about the weekly markets on California Avenue. Week 5 of spring quarter is a bit of a late discovery on my end, but now that I know about it, I plan to make up for the lost time. And if you happen to be near California Ave on a Sunday morning or you’re looking for a short off-campus excursion (the distance is for sure bikeable, or you can Lyft for around $5 round trip), this is a place you definitely want to visit. Another awesome part about the market’s location is that it is held between a row of restaurants like Mediterranean Wraps, Kali Greek Kitchen, Izzy’s Bagels, Joanie’s Cafe, Cafe Brioche. If you’re craving more of a hearty meal after your produce shopping, take a break from dining hall food and enjoy a nice sit-down lunch.

My first trip to a Palo Alto farmer’s market was with my best friend who had also never ventured through California Ave (despite her living in the area … literally a few streets down). Nevertheless, our lack of any preconceived expectations made the whole experience a bit more exciting in my opinion. As soon as we got out of the Lyft, we were greeted by a vendor selling sets of mini-succulents and aesthetic branches of beachwood (perfect additions to spruce up your dorm room!). Then were the bountiful, green produce stands with stalks of English peas and flawless bunches of carrots; I swear they looked like they were straight out of a Bugs Bunny cartoon. By the time we made it to the fruits and nut stands, we were surrounded by crowds of people strolling while munching on their latest purchases. My favorite buy of the day was a bag of granola from a bakery claiming to be dairy free, sugar free, vegan, gluten free etc… you would think that there would only be air to bake with after eliminating all these crucial ingredients, but the granola itself was surprisingly delicious. If that seems like a little too much for you, don’t worry, there were also various booths selling regular, gluten-filled pastries and loaves of bread. As we reached the end of the street, we were drawn in by the mouth-watering aromas emanating from a dim sum booth, rotisserie chicken food truck and vegan cuisine booth that served its food in cones. We were too full from brunch to indulge in the food truck delicacies, so that’s where you’ll find us this Sunday!

 

Contact Serena Soh at sjsoh ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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A positive perspective on the quarter system https://stanforddaily.com/2018/05/11/a-positive-perspective-on-the-quarter-system/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/05/11/a-positive-perspective-on-the-quarter-system/#respond Fri, 11 May 2018 08:00:27 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1140881 It’s spring: It’s finally the glorious time of year you can wake up to pleasantly warm weather and leisurely walk to your afternoon classes as a delicate breeze sweeps the campus. Birds seem to sing rather than annoyingly chirp, and the fuzzy caterpillars have thankfully decreased in numbers. The chaos and excitement of Admit Weekend […]

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It’s spring: It’s finally the glorious time of year you can wake up to pleasantly warm weather and leisurely walk to your afternoon classes as a delicate breeze sweeps the campus. Birds seem to sing rather than annoyingly chirp, and the fuzzy caterpillars have thankfully decreased in numbers. The chaos and excitement of Admit Weekend has come and gone. Classes have started to pick up as we approach the halfway quarter mark, but being able to study outside on Meyer Green and sprawl out under the sun makes work more bearable — though not always efficient. Overall, with the promise of summer vacation looming ahead, students seem happier, more carefree and less stressed compared to winter quarter, at least to me. Personally, although my course load is heavier than ever before, the weather paired with others’ more optimistic outlook on school makes me genuinely feel more content and relaxed.

But recently, as I’ve caught up with my high school friends, overheard other students complaining and noticed on social media, I’ve realized that the schools based on semester systems are nearly done with the year. In other words, while I’m sitting on Meyer Green naively feeling like the luckiest girl in the world because I get to enjoy beautiful weather while working on a CME p-set, my friends are one week away from getting out of school. Let me repeat that because I had a hard time wrapping my head around this: We still have five more weeks of a frightening mix of p-sets, presentations, essays, midterms and finals while many students our age are about to relax in the comfort of their homes, start insanely cool internships or travel with family. It’s very true that we get to start school nearly a month later than these semester colleges, but at least for right now, it seems unfair; and from what I’ve overheard, a lot of Stanford students agree.

Yet upon some reflection, I don’t think I would prefer the semester system to the quarter system (although the former does seem like the better deal at the moment). I can attest that there are various issues with our ridiculously jam-packed quarters; for example, there’s a point when we are no longer in the middle of the term and when it is no longer appropriate to subject students to a “midterm” (especially when it is week 9 and a total of three “midterms” have already been given). On the other hand, though the exams are abundant, they can only cover 10 weeks of material at most compared to the 15-week semesters. Also, because we have quarters, we can choose and take nearly 12 new classes a year. We get a fresh start every 10 weeks: It’s like with the blink of an eye, your “bad grade” from last quarter is magically gone, no longer weighing down your conscience. We get to try out more new classes without compromising our ability to fulfill major requirements. And if you get tired or bored of a specific class, all you have to do is stick it out for a few more weeks. One last advantage: The quarter system can perhaps help students snag the summer internships that run late into August when our semester peers are working away at school.

Though some of these claims may be a bit of a stretch, what I’m trying to say is that there are upsides to having a late start to summer — the benefits of the quarter system. There’s no doubt that the idea of other people kicking off their lazy summer before you do is jealousy-inducing, but if you look at the bigger picture, we have it pretty good.

 

Contact Serena Soh at sjsoh ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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On appreciating public art on campus https://stanforddaily.com/2018/05/05/on-appreciating-public-art-on-campus/ Sun, 06 May 2018 02:27:32 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?post_type=tsd_magazine_post&p=1139521 “Let’s meet at the string and stick nest thing at 3 pm.” “Be at the brown, metal sculpture after class.” It’s funny that we go about our day to day lives, rushing between classes and meetings for the longest time before noticing the public art sprinkled around the Stanford campus. The art can scream red […]

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“Let’s meet at the string and stick nest thing at 3 pm.” “Be at the brown, metal sculpture after class.” It’s funny that we go about our day to day lives, rushing between classes and meetings for the longest time before noticing the public art sprinkled around the Stanford campus. The art can scream red or slyly poke out between tall redwoods, but either way, it’s not uncommon for students to breeze past it before even noting its existence. What’s even funnier, though, is that once we eventually do become aware of the art, we are rarely curious enough to actively inquire: Why does it stand there? What is its significance?  Who donated it or created it?

Instead of pursuing these important questions, we taint the (more often than not) meaningful and historical artwork with statements like the ones above. First of all, the skillfully placed pipes and cables are actually  known as Mozart 1 — a creative imitation of the solar system and its galaxies, representing the idea that something magnificently complicated can also be unified and interdependent. Secondly, little do we know that “brown,” “metal” and “sculpture” are the unofficially official buzzwords used to describe over half of the art pieces on campus. Of course, there are a handful of people who have followed the Stanford public art map to visit public art landmarks or are genuinely interested in the stories behind such art, but the majority of students fall in the art-wise “unaware” category.

That’s not to say you should feel obligated to ask such questions after passing an art piece on campus. Not knowing the titles of the art around you doesn’t mean you are uncultured or unappreciative of creativity. And no, I personally  do not walk up to every sculpture-looking-object and read the accompanying engraved placard. There are 65 sculptures and fountains under the “Public Art” tab on the Stanford Arts Map webpage; it would take quite the investment of time and effort to become familiar with each piece. However, I do wish to simply bring light to the fact that the public art we often pass without taking a second look has layers — stories and meanings that are waiting to be uncovered. From pieces that are obviously recognized as public art to works that seem to serve more of a functional purpose, here are a few of my favorites that I go by often.

Let’s start with a piece that is the traditional depiction of public art.  Near the heart of campus, between the Law School and Meyer Green, there stands the 40 feet of 400 year-old cedar totaling 4,200 pounds that is “The Stanford Legacy.” Installed in the spring of 2002, this totem pole was carved by Don Yeomans in the traditional Haida style and gifted by Marcia and Fred Rehmus M.B.A. ’61. Made of layers of unique beings and framed by tall trees, the art itself is quite noticeable from a far distance. Deep emerald green, brick green, jet black and shiny copper colors are used sparingly as means of defining only the important features, but the pigmentation is bold. In fact, the large black pupils on each face give the illusion that the eye contact is directed to you and only you. Take a few steps closer, and the four faces are actually joined by several more smaller faces along with a frog and a copper shield. It’s not until you’re standing directly in front of the artwork and looking up that you appreciate its grandeur and feel ridiculously small in comparison.

At first glance, this piece seems a bit out of place because it is surrounded by metal-based, modern-looking sculptures. What is the significance of the faces? Why is there a frog? Is this a worthy location for such a culturally rich piece?  After doing some research, I learned that this totem pole represents the narrative arc of how the University was established; it is an ode to the Stanford family and a memorialization of how Leland Junior’s death inspired his parents to found our school. Each face acts as a character in the story.  Starting from the bottom of the pole, there is a bear figure holding a half-human-being, which symbolizes the unfulfilled. Between the bear’s ears is another small figure reaching up toward the copper shield. This tightly clutched shield represents the power and shared wealth that Leland Stanford Senior, the chief in this depiction, is offering. Next, we have Jane Stanford with the copper tears that the half faces, or children, are gripping on to, which are interpreted as enlightenment and hope for those children. Directly above is a green frog, a spirit treasured for his adaptability, knowledge and power within the Haida community. And to top it all off, there is a raven (the creator-spirit), which supports Leland Junior, represented as a child with angel wings.

Although it was easy to assume that this impressive totem pole was public art and illustrated some story, the content of this story was not obvious. Without aid from its accompanying placard or the Stanford Art map, I would not have been able to understand how the pole related to the Stanford legacy or interpret the intention of the piece. On the other side of the spectrum, but only a mere 100 feet in front of the Legacy, there is the Shumway Fountain. Its purpose is easier to assume, but whether it should be categorized as public art is not as clear-cut. While Stanford is full of stunning fountains, there is some ambiguity as to whether they belong in the same art category as the other traditional sculptures, partly because of their substantial interactive aspect. Nevertheless, the Shumway Fountain too has a deeper background.

Right in front of Green Library, squealing children smothered in sunscreen splash around while parents sip on Coupa iced coffee with their feet dangling in the water. Overly excited canines prance around the rectangular body of water, tracking wet paw prints and shaking off their drenched coats all over the surrounding pavement. Students enviously look on as they trudge toward Green with backpacks full of laptops, chargers and Hydro Flasks — reminiscing about their childhood or daydreaming about having the free time to join in on the fountain hopping. Though not everyone is able to feel the refreshing touch of the water, all passersby are able to hear the bright red pipe spouting hundreds of minuscule streams of water. One stream is not loud enough to be noticed by the usually occupied people nearby, but together the curtain of water’s effect is similar to that of a calming waterfall.

Historically speaking, the fountain was built as part of the East Wing of Green Library in  the 1980s. And though it looks like seasoned abstract art, it happens to be one of the only fountains on campus that was not sculpted by an actual artist. In fact, while the creators may not have coined the word “fountain hopping,” the purpose of the Shumway or the “Red Hoop” fountain was always to bring people together and not necessarily to provide a solely auditory or visual artistic experience. This is why the fountain is placed so centrally on campus (right in front of the main library) and features a shallow set of inviting stairs that descend into the  water. The addition of steps may not seem like anything revolutionary. But it really does encourage students and tourists alike to come together around the falling water, whether or not they are keen on actually getting in. In addition, if the concrete steps aren’t appealing, there is an opening in the amphitheater-style setting with a fresh patch of green grass — the ideal place to sprawl on a picnic blanket with a good read or chill music.

Speaking of interactive or functional art, my all-time favorite piece is the absolutely stunning chandelier gracing the Lorry I. Lokey Stem Cell Research Building. Although it is true that I considered it more of a light fixture than artwork when I first saw it, I’ve come to realize that functional art can be a form of public art. I love how the hundreds of navy curls dance among light blue streaks that intertwine with white ringlets, creating a graceful yet Medusa-esque image. I almost expect each of the three masses concentrated at the piece’s center to start warping, swirling around and coming to life — the edges extending to cultivate one powerful clump of spirals, big enough to fill the entire building. But for now, the masses hang vertically on nearly invisible cable in order of decreasing size. Visible from all levels of the building, the work’s blue hues match perfectly with the bustling researcher’s blue latex gloves and hefty lab coats.  In short, the glass masterpiece could be interpreted as an abstract depiction of the sea, though it is called “Tre Stelle di Lapis Lazuli” — three stars of the Lapis Lazuli gemstone. It is made up of 2,071 individual pieces of blown glass and, surprisingly, weighs more than “The Stanford Legacy.” Enhancing the sense of splendor further, the wall behind it consists of solely windows, letting in natural sunlight as well as providing a contrasting black backdrop that enables the chandelier to illuminate  with gold light.

Contrary to my initial assumptions, this work serves a much larger purpose than enticing people to come visit the research building. Rather, it was commissioned to artist Dale Chihuly because — as the director of the Stanford Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine put it in 2010 —  “[a]rt can inspire people in life’s activities, and artworks provide important symbols that remind us why we are doing what we are doing … it reminds [the researchers] of the importance of interaction across disciplines, and that such creative interactions are going on in this place.” It was all made possible by a donation from a non-profit organization dedicated to funding cancer research, My Blue Dots. Instead of a narrative arc or an interactive fountain, this chandelier is more a representation of the important synergies between art and science, whether or not the public realizes it; it serves to both physically light the room and remind researchers of an interdisciplinary concept.

While we may never be fully aware of all the public art around us, even just on this campus, it’s important to understand that the art stands for something that is more than just physically visible. Whether it is a narrative of the University’s founders, an interactive social gathering spot or a representation of the relationship between science and art, every artwork has a double identity — a deeper purpose that will stay hidden until actively inquired about. But when its story is uncovered, you will gain more appreciation for a piece that you once just breezed past. There’s a certain added value that comes with knowing the history of something that you pass by every day and having the power to share that enriching story with others. To say the very least, it makes walks around campus more interesting. So the next time you’re biking or walking, take a moment to observe your surroundings. Breathe in the fresh air, take in the sunlight and, if there’s a piece that catches your eye, look for its placard — I promise it won’t disappoint.

Contact Serena Soh at sjsoh ‘at’ stanford.edu. 

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When you don’t know any of your classmates https://stanforddaily.com/2018/04/27/when-you-dont-know-any-of-your-classmates-3/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/04/27/when-you-dont-know-any-of-your-classmates-3/#respond Fri, 27 Apr 2018 08:10:56 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1140118 With thousands of students at Stanford and hundreds of classes to choose from, it is likely that there will come a time when you will not know a single person in a class you’re enrolled in. Of course it’s beyond foolish to only take courses you know your friends or friendly acquaintances are taking. But […]

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With thousands of students at Stanford and hundreds of classes to choose from, it is likely that there will come a time when you will not know a single person in a class you’re enrolled in. Of course it’s beyond foolish to only take courses you know your friends or friendly acquaintances are taking. But the thought can definitely cross your mind when it’s the first day of the quarter, you’ve been handed various intimidating syllabi throughout the day, and the additional feeling of drowning in a swarm of strangers becomes a bit too real. While there are those ultra-connected and very sociable people on the other side of the spectrum, for many of us, the common occurrence of not knowing anyone in a class can often lead to an uncomfortable social situation.

Say you walk into the lecture room, still unsure if you’re even in the correct building. You are either quite early or see no one familiar, so you take an empty seat in the middle-ish row. (Obviously because if you’re the first one to sit in the front, you’ll seem to eager. And if you head straight to the back … I mean, you don’t want to seem like a slacker straight off the bat.) As more unfamiliar faces file in, you can’t help but think that everyone is intentionally sitting in at least a two-seat radius away from you. You try to keep your cool — pretending to mindlessly flip through your blank planner or scroll through your overly-checked Instagram feed. You even reposition your sticker-covered Hydroflask and beat-up backpack to make sure people know that the seats aren’t taken. But by the time the professor switches on his mic, your fate is sealed as there are still two empty seats on either side of you. And of course, this is the class where you’re asked to form groups and introduce yourself. Do you awkwardly pick up your stuff and side-shuffle down the ridiculously narrow row to sit next to the person four seats to your left? Or do you lean towards the group in front of you in an attempt to join their conversation? As you try hard to mask the growing feeling of self-consciousness, the next step of seamlessly inserting yourself into a group of people who already seem to know each other can be tough too.

Mind you, this overanalyzed social situation is all occurring within the very first 30 minutes of class. By the time you’ve gotten the personal introductions out of the way, you’ve breathed your sigh of relief, and perhaps you are reassuring yourself that you will get to know more people soon. However, that spark of optimistic hope is quickly extinguished when the professor announces that groups for the class project must be formed by the next class. Now that your grade is on the line, you feel entitled to panic just a little bit as it is no longer just social discomfort. As people begin to form clumps, you frantically scan the room looking for a fellow lost soul, and like it’s fate, you do indeed make eye-contact with your equally-as-frantic-looking group members to be.

Although this is quite the exaggerated narrative arc of what it feels like to not know anyone in a class you are taking, it can often feel this dramatic in the moment. But if you’re not interested in playing the role of Lost/Confused Student #1 in this storyline, do the simple thing that I wish people, including myself, did more often. The moment you walk into that lecture hall, take the initiative to sit next to someone else or strike up a random conversation before personal introductions are prescribed by the professor. Because probably more often than not, they’re worried about playing Lost/Confused Student #2 in the narrative.

 

Contact Serena Soh at 

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Stanford’s hidden gems: ProFro edition https://stanforddaily.com/2018/04/26/stanfords-hidden-gems-profro-edition/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/04/26/stanfords-hidden-gems-profro-edition/#respond Thu, 26 Apr 2018 08:00:18 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1140018 Admit weekend can be somewhat of an emotional rollercoaster. It is exciting coasting down Palm Drive and taking that classic picture in front of  Memorial Church with all of your new Stanford gear. Even receiving a Stanford name tag at the check-in point seems special and somehow makes your being an incoming Tree finally feel […]

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Admit weekend can be somewhat of an emotional rollercoaster.

It is exciting coasting down Palm Drive and taking that classic picture in front of  Memorial Church with all of your new Stanford gear. Even receiving a Stanford name tag at the check-in point seems special and somehow makes your being an incoming Tree finally feel real. Then there’s the indescribable adrenaline coursing through you as you’re herded around, with a gaggle of other ProFros, to the various activities. People handing you flyers for clubs, the band parading around, confused parents looking for their children—it almost feels like a carnival.

But then you can start to feel the downsides of that overwhelming energy. The same small talk and introductions start to get annoying; you’re surrounded by so many interesting peers, but the small number you actually connect with is slightly discouraging. Nevertheless, you follow the suggested schedule, until you feel the need to slip away from the group to explore the beautiful campus on your own for moments at a time. The next thing you know, you’re in front of the famous gong with a mallet in hand, current students cheering you on, unofficially committing to Stanford—and you’re proud of your decision.

Though nearly everyone experiences it, this emotional rollercoaster might push you to question whether Stanford is the right fit for you. Of course, it isn’t the best place for everyone, but one cannot make an accurate decision without getting to know the university on their own. As helpful as the scheduled activities and lectures can be, sometimes you need a break from all of the chaos to think a bit. Here is a list of some spots that I think are worth scoping out for some Admit Weekend down-time:

Since we are at a rigorous university, you may be curious about possible study spots. Of course there are the classic spots like campus cafes or plush lawns you’ve seen in movies, but Stanford students tend to opt for libraries when it isn’t spring and sunny. We all know of Green Library as the main library, but people often forget about two other absolutely gorgeous libraries: Bowes Art Library and the Crown Law Library terrace. Bowes is made of mostly glass walls allowing natural sunlight to illuminate the rest of the futuristic architecture of the building. And the easily accessible terrace that overlooks Cantor Art Museum has extremely comfortable, brightly colored, playful seating options. As for the law library, the decor is more traditionally elegant. Green vines creep up the walls and the awning lets in the perfect amount of light while still providing shade, not to mention the calming sound of the fountain. Though you won’t need a study spot for this weekend, if you feel like you need a break from the energy, either library can offer you the temporary sanctuary you need.

If the dining hall isn’t cutting it or if you need a pick-me-up between tours, I don’t see a problem with starting the habit of going to Coupa Cafe or CoHo a little early. Both centrally located on campus, these eateries are frequented by students often either for lunch or on the way to morning class. Coupa, a newer establishment situated next to  Green Library, is a quick, convenient place to grab a drink or a tasty pastry; the lawn in front of it (Meyer Green) is a nice place to enjoy your food. On the other hand, CoHo (or Coffee House) is located near Tresidder and has more meal options with indoor seating. The aged wooden tables and chairs make the environment feel comfortable and homey. Tresidder is also home to a slew of other eateries as well as an additional Stanford student shop, if the lines at the bookstore get too long. These are also great, easy-to-find places for your parents to get some rest.

Lastly, if you’re looking for aesthetic places to take pictures in front of or outdoor places to just enjoy scenery, there are so many options. The most popular are: Memorial Chapel, Hoover Tower, The Oval and The Stanford Dish, as well as the open space between the bookstore and Old Union. However, since these are Stanford’s touristy spots, they can get pretty crowded during Admit Weekend. Since Stanford is known for fountains and public art sculptures, I think it is worth it to check out the Reflecting Pool in the Engineering Quad and the Rodin Sculpture Garden just behind Cantor Art Museum. They may be slightly out of the way, but it means that fewer people know about them, which is partly why the view and serenity of these locations are pretty priceless.

Again, these are a few places to escape to when you feel that the Admit Weekend chaos is getting too much. I’ll be the first to admit that as much as you want the weekend to be the incredibly perfect experience you’ve dreamed of Stanford being, it’s sometimes hard to keep up your energy when you’re constantly bombarded with new information and surrounded by strangers. Don’t be afraid to leave the group of other ProFros to explore and reflect on your own—that could be the best way for you to get to know the school better. Visit the places you are actually interested in, whether that’s the Chemistry building or the Arrillaga Gym rock climbing wall, even if they aren’t stops in the schedule, because at the end of the day, the weekend is all about you and learning what you need to know before choosing where to spend your next four years.

 

Contact Serena Soh at 

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My experience with undergraduate research https://stanforddaily.com/2018/03/13/my-experience-with-undergraduate-research/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/03/13/my-experience-with-undergraduate-research/#respond Tue, 13 Mar 2018 08:00:15 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1138152 “Undergraduate Research: Resources and opportunities abound at Stanford, giving you the chance to turn the questions that kept you up last night into the way the world will live and think tomorrow.” Posted on the admissions site, this is the perfect statement to appeal to the Stanford-esque desire to positively impact the world before turning […]

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“Undergraduate Research: Resources and opportunities abound at Stanford, giving you the chance to turn the questions that kept you up last night into the way the world will live and think tomorrow.” Posted on the admissions site, this is the perfect statement to appeal to the Stanford-esque desire to positively impact the world before turning 30 years old. But in reality, how accessible are the research opportunities and resources this statement alludes to?

In spite of the increasing amount of publicity around programs like Bio-X, VPUE fellowships, and UAR grants for summer research funding, the first step of finding an actual lab to do research in is often the most difficult part. As an inexperienced undergraduate figuring out what to major in, I felt like approaching such accomplished professors about lab positions would be frowned upon. That was, until I joined my current lab in the Med School.

My background in science consists of one year of iffy chemistry and one year of slightly questionable biology supplemented by a mere six weeks studying stem cells. Wanting more exposure to structured research, I inquired during fall quarter about a position for a lab that was using planarian worms to model cancer development. Though I knew I found this area of research fascinating, I had zero idea of what a planarian even was or the basic biology behind cancer. Yet, thanks to an email, an informal interview and guidance from my amazing lab mates, I now understand more about the experimental process than I ever did in the classroom.

As an undergraduate with sparse experience and limited time to dedicate to my lab, I definitely don’t think that my research contributions will change “the way the world will live and think tomorrow” anytime soon. In fact, it’s already two quarters in, but I still only fully trust myself with the basic cleaning, amputating and sometimes feeding (if I’m feeling extra confident) of our test subjects. However, it is true that I am drawn to research because it makes me feel like I’m contributing meaningful work that benefits someone other and something bigger than myself — a satisfaction that I don’t necessarily always get from my classes. Furthermore, I believe that lab skills are helpful to cultivate for your personal benefit whether or not you pursue academia. Being in a lab encourages you to push yourself to be creative and innovative when designing experiments; it pushes you to be original. And when you do come up with that perfect experiment, you have to learn how to adapt quickly, trouble-shoot effectively and be persistent because there will be inevitable problems. Above all, you are forced to genuinely appreciate even the negative tests results because you quickly learn that they will be extremely helpful in some unpredictable way later on. Lastly, you learn to concisely summarize and communicate your findings whether that’s in the form of a presentation or a paper. Research offers so many learning and skill development opportunities that often don’t cross people’s minds. So, if you do feel yourself gravitating towards research in any subject, go for it — it’s an experience that can never be deemed useless.

Speaking from personal experience and from what I’ve gathered from my peers, email will be your best friend when it comes to finding the ideal lab for you. Through google or joining mailing lists, find a few professors whose work interests you and email them. Express why you want to contribute to the lab, mention specifics about their prior work, be concise and be respectful. It may seem daunting at first, but at the end of the day professors are human too — what’s the worse that can happen? If it is rejection you are worried about, think about the extensive number of labs on campus and the anonymity email communication gives you. No one is tallying the number of labs you are reaching out to, nor the number of labs turning you away except you. If you are questioning whether you are “good” enough for the high quality of Stanford University research, don’t; take my lack of prior experience as an example.

 

Contact Serena Soh at sjsoh ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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Testing the waters: How to start being politically active https://stanforddaily.com/2018/03/09/testing-the-waters-how-to-start-being-politically-active/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/03/09/testing-the-waters-how-to-start-being-politically-active/#respond Fri, 09 Mar 2018 11:00:00 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1138050 Just like passing the driver’s license test last weekend does not mean that I should be trusted on the road just yet, the fact that I am finally old enough to vote does not mean that I completely understand the system. Based on my current knowledge, I probably would not know exactly what I am […]

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Just like passing the driver’s license test last weekend does not mean that I should be trusted on the road just yet, the fact that I am finally old enough to vote does not mean that I completely understand the system. Based on my current knowledge, I probably would not know exactly what I am voting for when it’s my turn to step behind the polling station curtains. While I do have clear opinions on topics like gun control and immigration that happen to align with the Democratic party, I don’t know what other factors I must consider before taking a political stance. In fact, all I do know is that I would not even be able to defend myself if my political ignorance were exposed because it is so shamefully blatant.

As I’ve come to believe that using your voice is more important now than ever, my desire to educate myself led to me turning to one of the most valuable resources of Stanford: the multi-talented and diverse student community. Encouraged by a suggestion from a friend, I met with Hannah Zimmerman ’21, a Socialist activist from New York City, to learn more about how I could begin my exploration in the world of politics — not necessarily in terms of the Socialist party, but in a broader perspective.

Considering that we Stanford students have difficulty finding times to meet thanks to our busy schedules, I was more than happy when she extended an invitation to chat during her shift at the costume shop. List of questions in mind, I made my way to the backstage area of the Roble Gym theater, where I found Hannah was spraying down dirty costumes from the latest show. It was my first time in the backstage area of the theater (and probably my last): the dazzling dressing room lights were hypnotizing, and the dresses hung on the racks were masterpieces impossible to look past … As un-related to politics as it was, how could I not ask for a tour?

While we browsed through her latest projects and most recent accomplishment (tailored men’s trousers designed from scratch), we talked about everything starting with her background as a seamstress. With her father being a musician and her mother being a former hobby sewer, Hannah had always been artistically inclined. She shared that she had always been involved in school theater productions before attending the prestigious La Guardia High School as an opera singer. This performing arts background is what inspired her to create clothes in the first place; she wanted to make her own costume in her school’s theater production of “Into the Woods.” Fast forward a few years, and her inclination towards performing arts is what led her to discover her love for political activism.

This concept of coinciding interests prompted me to think about my own story — was I oblivious to the fact that my past experiences were building up to the answer I’ve been searching for? While I’ve been looking for the answer to my “political dilemma” through common methods like attending lectures and reading newspapers, I had not even considered approaching this situation with an additional, more personal lens.

For Hannah, she describes feeling an energy, similar to the energy she feels when on stage, as she learned more about Sanders’ work and his political views. It wasn’t until this moment that she decided to immerse herself in politics and take action with the energy from Bernie’s campaign under her belt. After phone-banking for Bernie and attending local meetings organized by fellow supporters, a year later, Hannah became the youngest member of the 2016 Democratic National Convention’s national delegation at 16 years old.

Note that someone not even old enough to legally vote transitioned from not knowing much about politics to building a platform encouraging other students to voice their political opinions through her “High Schoolers for Bernie” campaign within the span of a couple years. To me, this was utterly mind blowing. Even at 18, the idea of getting involved in politics is a bit daunting. Everything seems to become controversial in one way or another. But Hannah uses her initial lack of experience as proof that anyone can become politically active.

She emphasizes that it was a steep learning curve to get to her current position, but as a true performer, her main tip for anyone who wants to be political has always been to go where the energy is. She says to “look for the people who have the energy and who are willing to do things, because they are the ones you would follow. And even if they don’t follow through, they’ll just give you ideas that you can run with yourself.”

Our conversation in the costume shop took various detours as we delved into her past and love for designing clothes, but we ended at the same point I was initially seeking: a tip to keep in mind when becoming politically active. Her political journey intertwined closely with and built off of her artistic interests, but, at the end of the day, all she did was intentionally follow the energy she felt compelled towards. She immersed herself in a world that she truly felt compelled to learn more about rather than one she was the most familiar with. As a person who takes everything quite literally, I’m not sure I know exactly what is meant by “the energy,” but I’m hoping I’ll know when I feel it now that I am aware of its existence.  And for now, I’ll continue staying informed with the current news, following the work of people with values that align with mine and keeping Hannah’s advice in mind.

 

Contact Serena Soh at sjsoh ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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The toxicity of ‘I don’t care’ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/03/08/the-toxicity-of-i-dont-care/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/03/08/the-toxicity-of-i-dont-care/#respond Thu, 08 Mar 2018 09:00:11 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1137610 What do you want for lunch? Do you mind coming into work with me tomorrow? What do you want to do on Saturday? Growing up, I always responded with a nonchalant “I don’t care” to every one of these questions thrown my way — not in a passive-aggressive or sassy tone by any means but […]

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What do you want for lunch? Do you mind coming into work with me tomorrow? What do you want to do on Saturday? Growing up, I always responded with a nonchalant “I don’t care” to every one of these questions thrown my way — not in a passive-aggressive or sassy tone by any means but more in a laid-back manner that satisfied my desire to be flexible. It didn’t matter if I was at the breakfast table with my parents or at school with friends, these three words became my catchphrase.

Whether it was during those elementary school days or now, I’ve always hated making situations difficult by being the outlier and stirring up even the slightest hint of confrontation. Saying “I don’t care” has been my fool-proof way of blending in with the majority and avoiding the responsibility of making decisions that affected others. However, as I’m faced with my own set of bigger questions that require more than an “I don’t care,” I’m learning that striving to be flexible and agreeable all the time isn’t necessarily doing anyone any favors. In fact, more than anything, I think it has enabled my indecisive nature.

Personally, I think there’s a spectrum of personalities when it comes to decision makers. For example, you have:

1) The overly-demanding: We all know it’s just easier to let them have their way.

2) The opinionated: They clearly know what they want and say they’re willing to compromise… but at what cost?

3) The unpredictable: Their willingness to fight for their way depends upon the topic of conversation, but they do have opinions.

4) The pleaser: They constantly change their opinion based on reading social cues and others’ opinions.

5) The easy-to-deal-with: The classic “I don’t care”-sayers, who are fine with whatever.

Of course, there’s often a fine line between some of these sectors, but I don’t think one type of person is necessarily better than another. Sure, it may vary by context, but as a self-proclaimed pleaser/easy-to-deal-with type of person, I really admire those who know what they want and can stand by their opinions.

Especially because it’s become a habit for me to avoid making decisions and expressing my preferences when around other people, I often find myself not knowing how to feel even when I’m alone. This problem has extended far past the common, everyday decisions; in fact, it has often been the root of many academic crises. I don’t know whether I truly want to be a doctor or just think that’s what others expect of me; I don’t know if I shy away from math classes here because I actually dislike the subject or because I’m afraid I’ll be the only one struggling. I don’t know if I keep convincing myself to pursue a STEM major because it’s what I want deep down or because it seems like what everyone else is doing. I am so accustomed to moving with the crowd and the norm that these personal choices that no one else can make for me are daunting.

At first, “I don’t care” was a phrase that I relied on to make situations simpler and one that didn’t think twice about. Although I used to think that it made me flexible and easy-going, I’ve realized that it has rather been the easy way out from making decisions. But having become aware of this truth, I’m actively trying to eliminate this particular string of words from my vocabulary. And I do have to say that there is quite a sense of fulfillment that comes with making a decision based entirely on personal opinion. Even when I really don’t know or don’t care, I force myself to decide based on my initial instinct and stick with it because, like most things, your natural inclination tends to be right in the long run.

 

Contact Serena Soh at sjsoh ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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Friends by choice or by chance https://stanforddaily.com/2018/02/16/friends-by-choice-or-by-chance/ https://stanforddaily.com/2018/02/16/friends-by-choice-or-by-chance/#respond Fri, 16 Feb 2018 09:00:25 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1136877 College. It’s the home of Late Night mozzarella sticks, annoyingly expensive textbooks and that first sip of sweet, sweet freedom. It’s an educational establishment where we students often fluctuate between stressed, unmotivated and flat-out confused about our future. Most importantly, though, it is the place where everyone is supposed to find their lifelong friends. In […]

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Friends by choice or by chance
Courtesy of Unsplash

College. It’s the home of Late Night mozzarella sticks, annoyingly expensive textbooks and that first sip of sweet, sweet freedom. It’s an educational establishment where we students often fluctuate between stressed, unmotivated and flat-out confused about our future. Most importantly, though, it is the place where everyone is supposed to find their lifelong friends. In fact, the sheer number of times adults asked me whether I was excited for college, before spurting out another story about their “college buddies,” exceeds the number of vowels used in this article.

I never thought twice about these dated anecdotes until the chaos of NSO hit back in fall quarter. As people were making “friends” left and right, all I could think of was whether I would even have one classic college story to impose upon a freshly admitted student in the future.

After four years of living in a tight-knit community at boarding school, it had been a while since I practiced the whole making-new-friends-in-a-foreign-environment thing. Realistically speaking, how was I going to build new friendships when I couldn’t even survive one day without FaceTiming my high school friends? Why was it so easy for everyone else? What if I couldn’t find lifelong friends in college because it had already happened in high school? How was it possible that I could be surrounded by so many people, yet feel so alone?

So many Stanford upperclassmen assured me that this was normal and that everything would fall into place once classes started (they were so right, by the way), but I couldn’t stop these thoughts from swirling around in my head. The idea of me having to choose the right people out of a pool of around 7,000 strangers with whom to become “lifelong friends” was absolutely overwhelming.

Fast forward one and a half quarters, and I’ve come to realize that no matter how much you think it’s all under your control, it never will be. Even small things like individual friendships are initiated by chance, whether you like it or not. When I look back now, I see that while I was too busy trying to relive my high school friendships over FaceTime, my future friends had been right in front of me.

Thanks to some randomized dorm assignment, I found people who are willing to walk me across campus at 5 a.m. to make sure I’m safe. People who push me to try new things like dancing or taking myself more seriously. People who always know what I’m trying to say, even when I hardly even understand myself. People who I’ve come to genuinely trust and believe when they say, “Don’t worry, it’s going to be fine.” Friends I truly admire, respect and for whom I am so grateful.

I guess time will tell whether these friendships that formed by chance will last a lifetime, but I’m willing to bet that they will.

 

Contact Serena Soh at sjsoh ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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