Fierce

Another day of finals, another senior wisdom.

Name, Hometown, School, Major: Sam Peltz, Chicago, Illinois, CC, Political Science and Sustainable Development

Claim to fame: Homer-style: Denizen of Potluck, Leader of COÖP, Biker of Entire Country, Lover of the 6th floor of Butler on Sunday mornings

Where are you going? To Brooklyn, via the B or the Q, whichever comes first.

What are 3 things you learned at Columbia and would like to share with the Class of 2018?

1) Don’t quit, otherwise known as “don’t let the haters get you down”: when they tell you there’s no data for that, when you don’t get the internship/job/fellowship, when you hear something unsavory that makes you question your existence. If “they” tell you that you can’t or shouldn’t but you disagree, fight for it. Doubly applicable if it’s #thepatriarchy.

2) Alternatively, quit, otherwise known as GET THE HELL OUT OF NEW YORK (occasionally): New York is amazing, but sometimes you need to just go look at a new rock formation for a while. Perspective is an incredibly vital component of mental health and survival at Columbia. Don’t be afraid to quit New York for a summer/semester/year. While personal growth cannot be quantified on a resume, it is not a waste of time; it is essential.

3) Do things you aren’t good at doing: too too often Columbia makes you feel like if you are not the best at something, then you have no business doing it. This is NOT true. Some of the most rewarding moments of my last four years have been improving in something that I did not excel in automatically. It is often much easier to track growth in an area in which you struggle. Mastering something you were once bad at is good for your self-esteem.

Back in my day…

I don’t remember because of 4loko. Apparently, that’s all that happened back in my day.

Justify your existence in 30 words or fewer.

Drunk horseback riding=drorseback riding. You’re welcome.

Write your most memorable note from the field.

“There’s a little starf***er in all of us.” –Anon. English Professor…office hours, man.

Would you rather give up oral sex or cheese?

Unlike cheese, lesbian activities do not come in very many varieties.

One thing to do before graduating:

Find and belong to an intentional community that means something to you. If you’re on the market, I recommend the one that convenes at 606 W. 114th at 8 PM every Friday (Potluck House).

Any regrets?
No regrets, just love.