Dear Abe, I had the worst housing slot, and I’m stuck in a dorm I didn’t want. Everyone says it’s going to be miserable. What do I do?
First of all, I understand your complaints. Centre’s housing system isn’t the easiest to deal with—and you’re telling me. I’m stuck outside in the wind and the rain. However, I always deal with my disappointment at my placement by remembering that there are parts of my life I do like.
For instance, I like my view of the library. I get to see all the wonderful Centre students going to work hard at their assignments. (You are all so dedicated). That passes the time and helps distract from the horrible sights beside me at night (the Flame is not a highlight of my view). To feel better about your room, you could try to find something similar to enjoy. Maybe your room is small, the bathrooms are communal, or the building is old, but try to find what you can like. Perhaps the view from your room is nice, you’re close to academic buildings and can sleep later, or the common space of your dorm is perfect for hosting friend get-togethers.
If you have none of that, which happens, make the space your own! Put up pictures, lights, posters, and anything else you need to make the room feel like yours instead of only a college dorm. By personalizing it, it becomes nicer to return to each evening, even if it wasn’t your first choice. Sometimes, the luck of the draw is against you, but you have to seize what you’re given and make the best of it. Next year, you’ll get another chance to live somewhere/with someone you’d prefer.
Dear Abe, I’ve been dying to know what book you have been reading and what you recommend.
I am an incredibly big fan of plays (I did die doing what I loved), and have been reading a few modern playwrights recently. Although seeing a play is always the best option, I am limited in my ability to attend them in person. As of now I have been reading “John Proctor is the Villain” by Kimberly Belflower, a show which debuted on Broadway this April. Fun fact, the original play was first held at Centre as part of the Farm Theater Collaboration project. Other, modern, playwrights that I enjoy are Sarah Ruhl and Rajiv Joseph, although you can never go wrong with a good ol’ Shakespeare or Tennessee Williams.
As for fiction novels, I have found myself loving romantasy recently. I just finished “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas, and I absolutely adored the political intrigue, character development, and, of course, those salacious moments. I am currently reading “Onyx Storm” by Rebecca Yarros, the second title in the “Fourth Wing” series. Although I haven’t liked it quite as much as ACOTAR, I would still heavily recommend Yarros’ books. As for a direct recommendation, I would heavily suggest The Cruel Prince by Holly Black as an entry to the genre. It is a dispute as to whether or not it counts as a true romantasy novel, regardless it is a riveting, and relaxing, read. I hope you enjoy these recommendations!