THE, . CURRENT FOCUS'

VOLUME 7, NUMBER 3 A student publication of Emmanuel College, Boston FEBRUARY / MARCH 1997 Honors Students Hitting the Laptops Alexandra Holmes ' Every other Wednesday 'jssues of the day and of history. Emmanuel College, the chosen Marie Gutty, who is in night, a group of fifteen freshmen Dr. Claire Lang comment­ few who were asked to be a part of charge of the technical end of the and sophomores meet for two ed that students have gotten excit­ the first ever Honors Colloquium Honors Colloquium, noticed by hours and listen to a speaker. They ed over the Colloquium and she are lucky because they were given ' observing meetings that "through discuss material read since their said, "It is a good sign when stu­ a laptop computer. Furthermore, it the use of e-mail, students have last meeting and the content of the dents ask how 'they carl become a was thought that the students asked already been' conversing before lecture given by that week's speak­ part of the Colloquium_'" Members to be part of the Colloquium only they' even come to the meeting." er. These fifteen women and sev­ of the Col~oquium have also agreed because Of the incentive She explained, "There is no awk­ eral faculty members willingly expressed,how much they like this offered regarding the laptops. ward time when students have choose to meet for two hours every experience. Kristina Haeussler However, ask any member of the nothing to say because they Jiave other week because they want to. said, "I want to be a part of the Honors Colloquium program and already been talking through e­ It is a simple notion, really: they Colloquium for as long as they will they will praise the new program, mail." Gurry also commented that want to learn more and become let me." , not just because of the computers. ~-mail takes away from the uneasi­ more academically challenged. Both students and faculty There is no denying that ness that students feel in a large They want to be a part of a special believe that the Honors the technological aspect of the lap- discussion.- Many students who group known as the Honors Colloquium has been so popular top computers has made students would not regularly speak out in - Colloquium. - and beneficial because students more involved in the Colloquium class took advantage of the oppor­ The Honors Colloquium, actually learn information in the and it has made the intended pur- tunity in the Honors Colloquium. which was implemented just this meeting that they might never pose even more successful. By Dr. Lisa Stepanski of the year, has been a successful pro­ learn in the classroom. Melissa providing students with their own English ' Department has also gram for highly motivated stu­ Eckhardt remarked that "it was personal computers which are noticed in some of her classes, that dents. The Colloquium has given school outside of the classroom." hooked up to the internet in their students whom she knew to be students who want more of a chal­ The information that the members dorm rooms, they have no excuse members of the Honors lenge in their studies a place to of the Colloquium have learned for not reading and responding to Colloquium program who did not explore their 'desires. It has been made more of an impact on the stu­ their e-mail. It was discovered, as speak out in class at the beginning said by students and faculty alike dents because it was material that the meetings progressed, that the of the year became more vocal in that the Honors Colloquium has pertained to issues of the 21 st cen- frequent use of e-mail contributed class discussion throughout the provided students the opportunity _tury , which is quickly approaching. to the student participation and semester. "I think that the to explore cultural and personal To any student at overall class participation. Colloquium gave students a sense Please see Colloquium, page. 4

) - Music DepartlDent's Prayers Are Answered Jenna Wilkinson

Last semester in "The Sound of Music," she has seen ~ince her first year here, in the Rissmeyer remarked, "[The positive publicity] Rebecca Consentino, who played the role of Auditorium. brought by the Emmanuel Singers may help to Maria, added an extra, prayer .to the _evening Another stride for the Music Department increase enrollment for the school." prayer in the script. With Consentino's addition, was the Emmanuel Singers? first concert under Janessa Hoyt, a high school senior who plans to attend Emmanuel next fall, played die Maria said, "God bless everybody at Nonnberg the direction of/ Choral Director John S. Abbey ... and Sr. Janet Eisner, that she may Haeussler. Since Haeussler took over the chorus role of Sister Margaretta in "The Sound of grant us a new auditorium." The applauding last fall, the exposure of the Emmanuel Singers Music." , Hoyt said that her participation in that audience members can rest assured that Maria's has increased tremendously. Previously, the production and the chance to be a ,part of future prayer will not go unanswered. Singers were only seen twice a year at their Fall productions and the chorus is what helped her Sr. Janet has already begun ,to move forward and Spring semester concerts, and occasionally decide to come to Emmanuel. with plans to remodel the auditorium so that it at Campus Ministry events, such as Founder's Haeussler 'has even more plans for the will be more conducive to use by the Music and Day. In addition, there have been fewer and Singers this semester. Since their Founder's Day Speech Communication/ Theatre Arts fewer members in the chorus in the past two appearance, the women of the Emmanuel Departments, the English Department, and the years. Commitment to the Singers and enroll­ Singers have begun preparing for two more land­ outside organizations that rent our facilities for ment in the Music Department have been low in mark events on their calendars: a trip to New their conventions. Eisner said that the college recent years due to budget cuts and lack of inter­ York City on the weekend of April 18th, with will eventually see a total renovation of the audi­ est. This year enrollment increased significantly plans for a concert somewhere in the city; and a torium, and that we "may well begin to see pre­ in the Emmanuel Singers, with eighteen women joint concert on the Emmanuel campus with the liminary work and improvements soon." appearing at the Winter Concert. Coast Guard Cadets of New London, Hopefully, fmalized plans ~ill soon be made With the energy of Haeussler, who is in his Connecticut on April 25th. , available to the Emmanuel Community. . second semester here, Emmanuel has begun to At these two major events, the Singers will In fact, the musical was a huge stride for realize the potential of its Music Department, be seen wearing their new choral robes of bl'ue Emmanuel 's small Music Department. "The and the Emmanuel Singers. Eisner said she feels with gold trim, an important improvement Sound of Music," directed by John Haeussler, that John H ae u s~ ler has brought enthusiasm and authorized by Dr. Rissmeyer, Sr. Janet Eisner, was the first musical performed here in ten expertise to the Music Department, and that she and Moll y Hackett. The purchase of the robes years. Consentino, a junior, noted that the musi­ can see the students' enthusiasm about the was aided by Judy of the Emmanuel College cal was performed to the three largest audiences changes in the program _as well . As Dr. Bookstore. When asked, Dr. Ri ssmeyer, the Please see Music, page 4

, I I I ., I I / j . ' I PAGE 2 THE CURRENT FOCUS - FEBRUARY I MARCH 1997 OPINION - . "Do "the demonstrators know what they are protesting? . Dolores Tranquillino issue with this story is that a priest sage of the film. However, none gay lover. His parish and his bish- commits perjury to save two condemned it. op condemn him. As a pariah, Recently, the movie industry friends from prison. The negative The film told the story of a Father Greg has to leave and live in has been criticized for the value depiction of priests in both these young British priest, Father Greg virtual seclusion with a berating system it represents. Parents, film films have created anger among (Linus Roache) who is new to -a priest who speaks only in Latin to critics, and even presidential can­ some Catholics. poor parish. There, he meets the him. After an invitation from didates have spoken against the The film Priest opened in outspoken Father Matthew (Tom Father Matthew, he returns to his glamorizing of violence, drugs, April 1995 with its controversy Wilkinson), who is secretly sleep- parish and the two say Mass and "loveless" sex that have per­ acting as the a9 campaign. The ing with the housekeeper. Once together. Many parishioners are va~ed many films. Perhaps the poster showed a picture of a young Father Greg discovers this relation- outraged by the return of this non­ most vehement of criticism occurs priest next to words saying, "He's ship, he expresses instant disap- celibate gay priest, and some in the form of protest against the about to challenge one thousand proval. However, a few scenes leave. However, those who remain portrayal of Roman Catholic years of tradition." This ad, along later, Father Greg is seen riding his refuse to go to Father Greg for priests in recent movies. The fIlm with new reports deeming the film bike to a gay bar 'and has a fling communion - all except Lisa. that began the controversy was as anti-Catholic angered many with a man he meets there. Later She embraces Father Greg as they 1995's Priest, an import from the Catholics, some of whom raI\ with this man becomes Father Greg's cry aloud together for c.ompassion United Kingdom. In that film, two picket signs to the theaters where only friend, other than Father and forgiveness. It is a tender, priests violate their vows of celiba­ Priest was playing. Others sent -Matthew, with whom he can rarely emotional scene as well as the cli­ cy - one of them with another protest letters to Disney, the dis­ spend time. Further problems max of the film; an illustration that man. The recent Hollywood prod­ tributor of the film. However, few, develop for Father Greg whyn some Catholics will not forgive the uct that has given protesters reason . if any, of these people actually Lisa, a young girl, tells him in con- fallen who strive to redeem them­ to dust off their picket signs is went to see the movie to discover fession that her father is sexually selves. Sleepers. Based on a best-selling for themselves if it was worthy of abusing her. When she denies the Similar to the narrow minded autobiographical novel, the film its censure. Ironically, many priest permission to s~ek help for parishioners, protesters never gave also claims to be nonfiction. The priests, such as a few of the her, Father Greg is faced with the the film a chance. They never Franciscans in Boston's St. dilemma of whether to break the looked into its meaning and the Anthony's Shrine who saw the seal of confession. messages is strove to convey to film, actually liked it. Even more complications audiences. These protesters only Furthermore, those ,who did not arise for the priest when he is saw two controversial surface ele­ enjoy it still respected the mes- arrested after being caught with his -ments: breaking the vow of celiba- Please see Demonstrators, page 8 Why Commuters Don't Participate isha Pas cascio In the Septem~r 1996 issue of -!he Current attend meetings and activities if they have no imme­ I submitte~ an opinion article titled, "The diate responsibilities and access to their own method ad'varltaJges of Being a Commuter." In this article . of transportation. But for those who don't have a car, I discussed why I felt like I belonged at Emmanuel as is it more acceptable to risk their safety travelling late a resident, and !tow I feel like an outsider, as a com- at night, than to feel they are a part 'of the Emmanuel community? One aspect tha~ gets overlooked is that In the following.issue, the Vice-Preside~t of the MBTA buses do not run frequ-ently at night. I'm quite tudent Government, Kelly Monteiro, wrote a sure commuters, or anyone else for that matter, would to my article titled, "College-Life Is What not care to wait around for a bus, alone at night. Make Of It." Th~ article suggested that com- The Student Government contends that com- just -sit back and complain, and are not at all muters can stay overnight in the dorm if they want to in making changes happen. . attend evening activities._On the other hand, it is quite However, I don't believe this is always the case. cumbersome to carry . your books for two days of seems to me that everyone tends to forget that - classes, a change of-clothing, and sheets because you was a commuter college when it was first don't want to be sleeping on sheets that have been hed. Rose Irma Lynch, a professor at stored in the basement. Now let's be-realistic: would

IJ<1JIU""I, explained to me how, in the past, the col- you honestly want to be dragging all that baggage on made plans for the students in accordance with the bus or train with you? Another obstacle is eating schedules. On Tuesdays and Thursday's at on campus. If a commuter stays over she has to buy :30pm and Sunday afternoons, a variety of programs several meals, which can get very expensive. activities ulled to be held for the commuters. The I know plenty of commuters who would like to understood the need for commuters to be get involved in meetings and activities, but the sched­ active in their college experience and how important uling makes- it extremely difficult. Mter all, why it was, and still is, for commuters to get home at a rea- should commuters haV:e to make special arrangements sonable time. to stay in the dorm to attend a meeting of' an activity Things have changed a'1d now on-campus events that could be scheduled accordingly to benefit every­ are geared more toward residents than commuters. At one. Reme'mber that simply because commuters same time, commuter needs have riot changed. don't regularly attend meetings and activities does not owadays, man¥ commuters are mothers, or. have mean 'they don't want to get involyed. They simply responsibility that prohibits them from being at can't get involved the way things are. . """"lll any longer than they absolutely have to, such . - So what am I trying to say? That what may be work. But should these mothers be viewed as com- possible for some commuters may not be possible for aining because they have children to go home to? all. Commuters who can't get involved in late night Should commuters really be forgotten becau.se they activities due to. ~ertain circumstances, should not be are working to support themselves? I hardly consid- criticized. College life is what you make of it, but this er this complaining and not wanting to make a differ- ' should not mean that commuters are asked to jeopar­ I see .this as commuter& liying up to the col- dize their safety. Commuters are not just sitting back lege's·ob]ectives. -and complaining, they are making responsible choic- I realize that it is possible for-some commuters to. , es. - . ,

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 1997 OPINION " THE CURRENT FOCUS ' Page 3 Letters to the Editor: Commentary: .Current Focus: Libririclls appreciate Senior Gift , " Cancellations To the editor: ' To the editor: )- by Theres~ Consoli Thank you, thank you, thank you to the I wanted to take this opportunity to publicly thank Did anyone notice anything Class of 1997, for maki!1g this year's the Class of 1997 for making the Cardinal Cushing missing at the end of last semester? senior gift one t~at will benefit the Library the recipient of the Senior Gift. Like perhaps the two November Cardinal Cushiog Library. this is a won­ / derful contribution to the college, one issues of the Current ·Focus??? Well, I began iny professional career as a Librarian at if you were unaware of this allow 'me / that will impact future stUdents arid one Emmanuel, starting as the Class of 1997 entered' to inform you that the last two issues that certainly says a lot about you as a their freshman year. I found a group of young of the semester had to be cancell/ d. Class. women who will make a genuine impact in their Why? There were not enough/ arti­ professional lives, as well as provide a loving com­ cles submitted. Those of us w)1o did When I started at Emmanuel, back in munity for their families and friends. Their enthu­ submit articles ended up having 1993 with this Class, the Library was siasm a~d desire for learning gave me confidence wasted our time in interviewing and just beginning the long and involved ,and a true feeling of accomplishment when I could writing. process of automation. Many hours help them find the information they were seeking , The dilemma, or perhaps the were put in by a number of people as the for a paper, job interview, or a list of shows that irony, onhe situation.can be summed new 'technology was brought into the they could attend with their friends. up with one question; how is it possi­ Library and the entire collection was 'ble that a school full of highly opin­ barcoded, relabeled and shifted. There The Class of 1997 witnessed the Library's period ionated women have nothing to say their school paper? The answer to are three members of the Class of '97 of transition from the card catalog to the present . in this question is the age old answer to that helped play a part to make it hap­ on-line environment. Their patience,- words of so many unsuccessful events here at pen ... thank you Kelli Chapin, Rhea encouragement, and excitement with the new sys­ Frederick and Melissa Trembley. Emmanuel: LACK OF PARTICIPA­ tem gave all 'of us who participated in the automa­ TION! NO COMMUNITY SPIRIT! tion project a sense that we had done something etc., etc., etc. You know the litany by I'd also like to thank the Senior Gift worthwhile ana had improved their college experi­ now because I've been writing about Committee Members: Kelli Chapin, ence. The Senior Gift will augment the Library it all year. No one participates in Beth Clemmey, Rosalynd Danley, even further, and will make a lasting impact on school events, like the Halloween Regina DeNapoli, Kristen Finn, Jen future classes at Emmanuel College. party with its incredible preparations Guiducci, Erika Haeussler, Maggie and disappointing turnout; or what McNabb, Jen Meuse, Liz Motte, Cara I want to send a special thank-you to the Senior about the SLACers screening of Toy Murtagh, Katie Papuga, Anna Power, Gift Committee Members: Kelli Chapin, Beth Story last week? There wasn't a sin­ Theressa Risdal, and , Melina Tomczyk. Clemmey, Rosalynd Danle'y, Regina DeNapoli, gle student in the foyer. Thank you, for recognizing the Library's Kristen Finn, Jen Guiducci, E~ka Haeussler, Sure'; we all have excuses: ;"1 commitment to the students of Maggie McNabb, Jen Meuse, Liz Motte, Cara had to work ... ", "I had to go to the Emmanuel and for your support to insure Murtagh, Katie Papuga, Anna Power, Theressa gym ... ", "I had to study. .. ". The list that positive, steps will continue to be Risdal, and Melina Tomczyk, for their considera­ goes on. the point is we are all very busy and have a million things to do. made in the future. tion and their commitment to the Class of 1997 and However, let's not forget that when the Cardinal Cushing Library. I wish the Class of our favorite TV program comes on The Library has truly come a long way 1997 a fI;Uitful year and a successful future. since 1993, as have the women in the we seem to make time for it,or if we want to go to a bar with friends we Class of '97. I wish you all the best in Sincerely, can suddenly squeeze it in. We need future. Patricia A. Hatch to give the events sponsored by our. fellow students, our Emmanuel sis­ Alison Boutaugh ter, the same priority and importance we give to our other social engage- ments. J Gift Committee Thanks Seniors As far as the school paper is concerned, I can ~nly say that it The Senior Class Gift Committee"commends the Class of 1997 for their .support. We have raised would be really nice if everyone ~ho ~ver $900 in cash and pledges toward .our goal of $1500.'We would like to thank all of those ' walked around the halls with the lat­ seniors who have made a 'pledge to.the senior.class gift this year. The ~eadline for pledges is April est story or complaint would just jO!

> 25th. We also want to thank the foU bwing s~niors for: fulfilling .their pledges so promptly: it down on a piece of paper and hand it in. They could kill two birds with , one stone: help the school newspa­ € ¥ a Murtagh ;:" '.: ~ Nicole Anderson ,. Kath~rine Papuga per and their Emmanuel community, ~f .,' Kelli yChapi,!). ' f; . .& • Pl' . ;q:.~); 'J'u,la StItson and help keep everyone up to date by t .~ Regina DeNapoli Charmaine Thomas informing their' community of situa­

~ -,~,-;Tara Frizzell',/t ~, ..,.;':': , tions and happenings. PLEASE ~ $ ,.'. Miche]e' Torres Magdalene'McNabb ". 'i;;,; " PARlll<:IP)\llE!!!!!! 1" Deanna Webster t/"'::i:x: AA.to: ;;0 ..- ~ Page 4 THE CURRENT FOCUS - FEBRUARY / MARCH 1997 NEWS & Colloquium r continu;d from page r Letter to 'the 'students < ~ . fr.,~ Sr. Pat Jo~nson, SND, Vice President for Academic AtTai~~ , -of self-reliance and boosted their . , self..'esteem. ~~y iIrls I noticed, At the end o( the Fall Students want teachers who com- in terms of language, background, . who were shy in claSs, began to semester, all course evaluation muriicate that they want to help stu- experience, or age, makes class . speak out more'iIi class." { forms were returned to my office . dents succeed. Although there were time hard to manage. Having At the end df- this semes­ for" review. I read each evaluation occasional criticisms of particular teachers who sPeak in ways that are ter, it is safe to say that the Honors forrri' for all coursed before Teturn­ faculty, Emmanuel students affirm "sarcastic, demeaning, intimidat­ , Colloquium ' has met the goals it ing them to the Chair of the depart­ overwhelmingly, in their course ing" is discouraging. In some set out to accomplish at the begin­ ment concerned. The Chair was .' evaluations, that they have good courses, the required text 'is not ning of the year; The Colloquium responsible for reading all the eval­ teachers and are experiencing good used frequently, especially When wanted to offer an opportunity to uations .for her/his department and teaching. compared to how much the text highly motivated students who to meet with each faculty member .students expect clarity OIi costs. Some courses need certain wanted to delve into significa.nt about her/his evaluations. Once the the' course syllabus with regard to time/format changes in order to be questions and answers. The Spring semester started, the origi­ the teacher's expectations, the grad- more effective, e.g., a three hour Colloquiu~ , w~ted to teach stu- nal course evaluation forms were ing criteria, and outcomes the stu- class or a night class, does not work .... dents new .. informat~on that they returned to each faculty member so dent can expect from the course. for all courses. Mnay times, a lot of could not learn in ~y classroom. that they could carefully consider Students like classes that encourage material is rushed .into class meet­ Finally, it wanted to provide a way for highly intelligent students, who what the stud~nts were saying participation, where the teacher is . . ings at the end of a semester; when are highly motiv3;ted as well, to about her/his courses. . open to the students' idea~ and this is happening in several classes find other students who have the In my review of the stu­ opinions, and where students are it becomes quite overwhelming. same interests. Th~ Colloquium dents' "feedback," I noted the fol­ n

,from the region .in theJ next two ABCD J. Baker, Inc. : , . RM Bradley r Americorp Kelley Services' · Robert Half International years, but he would like to increase ' . " \ ',' AmeriCorps Mass Mutual , Sasaki.Associates the group's compliment to 40 first. ; . His ' other plans for 'the Singers . MBNA ~ S,haw Industries , ~~ Boston . . . " . . ) ·include petfoniting ' ' at- , the Boston Beer Company .. ,.' '~ .' . 1 Stilte Street Bank TrUst " MBTA. • > ap.d Baccalaureate Masson May 17th . Boston Public Schools : Gompany ,. : '_ M~ditech " . _", ",' ,. . t ~ _ . ... Cascade . The Museum ofSqjellc~ . '.\ . 1. 'Stone & .Wepster , -Children First ' ..• NE Home for Little·Wanderers ;T.:J. Maxx • ~ I" ' t • ~ •• ' Children's Hospital , " Neiman Marcus . , ~ The Flatley 'Company "" .' Consulting for Architects " '· .. ··P~~r\ s Healthcar~ 'Sy~te!ll ' , Walker Home & School ,' i ' ' . Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Peace Corps . " . Winter " . Diversified Communications 'Prudential FinanciaL , · Wyman & Company Fortis Financial ' Prudential Preferred Financial World Mortgage . l Communications Services Hill Holliday Relief Resources, Inc.

This lisris not complete. At the ~ime this list was released, more invitations had been sent out by the planning committee and a total of60 companies are now expected. For more information, p~ease con- tact the Internship/Career Development Office at 735-9930. ' . . . . , '. ' · ' .

\ \ \ , I ~ \ \ \ \ I • , \ I \ \ \ \ , \ \ , \ , \ ~ '\ \' \' \ \ , \ \ ,,\ , \ \ , , \ , \ I t \.\ \, \' , \ , \ \' , \ . \ \ , , THE CURRENT FOCUS - FEBRUARY / MARCH 1997 Page 5 FEATURES Teamwork: Here to Stay Cheryl Harris . -

... ,./ \ Unlike the neighborboods in which ented individual. No longer is it ok~y to get however, they to~ the list. I refer to them as most of us' liv

Emmanuel College: When I first came to Emmanuel College in the Fall of '93, I didn't have any clue about what I wanted to be. I graduated Maria Menendez We Are a Family from Hyde Park High School knowing I had an interest in the business world. I come from a small, pIe and felt right at home. Freshman year was so easy for me that I even made the coed, '~ll-American" school in Although I was far away from Dean's List. I wanted to major in Business Administration with a Puerto Rico. I started at my family, I was amazed at how Robinson school at age six. I safe and secure I felt. I did get a concentration in Accounting. It felt good to me that one day I left at eighteen with a high bit homesick, but not nearly as would be working for a big company. However, when I became a school diploma. I have grown to much as I thought I would, due sophomore, I got interested in the world of media instead. My look back on Robinson as a part to the students' supportive atti­ advisor, Sr. Carolyn Caveny, sat down with me and explained all of me, and I will never forget my tude. The student body has a kinds of things that I could do with a degree in communications. time spent there. Moreover, I wide range of international stu­ So I took her advice and declared my major at the end of that learned valuable experiences dents which gives me the oppor­ semester. and made long-term friends tunity to integrate with a variety Spring '95, television grabbed my interest. I was now whom I still communicate with. of cultures. It is fun to meet'new doing a TV show for the Haitian community called: tele Robinson has been' a place people and to make new friends. where memorable times were In addition, I have the chance to Liberasyon. This program helped me with my communication shared with friends, teachers, represent my culture and to skills more than I could have imagined. I had the chance to partic­ and family. However, during the teach other!) about Puerto Rico. ipate in almost all of the activities going on in the Haitian commu­ beginning of my senior year, I Moreover, the faculty nity. One day I sat alone in my room and thought that I would like started to think about my goals here was also very receptive and to be the first Haitian TV anchor in Boston, even though I have an and where I wanted to be the helpful to me in my transition accent. So I left it that way until the end of the semester. next year. into the Emmanuel community. Junior year was exciting for me. Even though I was hav­ Although I : was unsure F or example, my first semester ing some personal problems, I was so happy that I had only one about where I would be headed, here, m3;Ily of. them were con­ more year to go. I tried to keep my GPAup and aimed for B's, I knew that I wanted a place like cerned about my studies and Robinson' where 1. would feel. as were willing to help. me by giv­ even though I really wanted to make the Dean's List. I tried very a part of "one big happy family:" ing me extratilne and explaining hard and realized that I only had one more year of school before I . I did research on various col- the answers to my questions could call myself a"professional." I knew I needed to get some leges and universities and even- carefully. Their interest and'car­ .experience in the mass media. So I.asked-my work-stu,dy supervi­ tually decided on Emmanuel ing attitude was similar to 'iny sor, Elizabeth McNamara, Director of Internships and Career College. ·Since I was so,. used t<;> , .' teachers at Robinson. Development, to help me try to find an internship. Robinson's small environment, I : Furthermore, ,the tan trees 'and Spring '96, my junior year was half over and I. was taking thought Emmanuel was the per- ' the antique architecture of the ' a communication class called Writing for the Mass Media in fect choice. I also boped to learn campus reminded me of the· Advertising and Public Relations. I really enjoyed everything I about new people and other cul- · overall landscape of myoid learned in that class. Dr. Dorian DiManno, the professor, was tures. I was eager ' for J new ' school. opportunities and to become My wish to continue my great. She made me understand more of what goes on in the more independent. . ' . education at a school similar to media. From what I learned in that class, I became interested in Emmanuel College met Robinson was - realized at advertising. I think it is truly amazing to be polishing an ad for a all my expectations. I found the Emmanuel. I'm so glad I ended big campaign. So I decided that I would try to look for an intern­ people caring and friendly. up here because I looked for­ ship in an advertising agency. I found a company that was looking When I first got here I was ward to being "where everybody for interns in its advertising department. I .called them and sched­ immediately introduced to peo- knows your name." uled an interview, after which I was hired right there on the spot. Page 6 THE CURRENT FOCUS'" FEBRUARY I MARCH 1997 . ~. .

English Literature & Communicati~n Arts Club Arts Review

Melissa Eckhardt ),abtlla 6tttuart trip worthwhile. I soon finished the The gray sky and the upper floors and, made my bitterly cold air make it easy c1arbutf ,:.fRUStUm . way back down to the first, to ' forget l he outside when where the Botticellis were inside a ~uilding . With such and dull they are not. ' not pieces older than that. on display: The exhibit' was weather, there is no reason Walls of intricately I experienc,ed this fall smaJI, perhaps disappointing to long to be outside, per­ w6ven fabric and h,ard wood back in time. Someti ow, I for some, but for those , haps no reason to even go floors provide. the exhibit found myself in the seven­ such as myself who enjoy outside. However, I decided space for paintings, orna- teenth century while gazing his work, it was exhilarating. to bare the winte-r and make ments, furniture and other at a portrait of King Ph ilip Standing just inches away the short trek down the such artwork. Wh ile there is IV. At least, it seemed that from canvases that · his street to visit the Isabella no doubt that the room.s are somehow I tound myself in a brush touched, I marveled Stewart Gardner Museum. filled to such a degree that time of long ago, because at the beauty of his nativi­ An exhibit on Sandro ,they do not resemble living as I stood there, a young ties and his Virgin M~rys. Botticelli has recently spaces, it is quite possible man of college age Although his more famous opened, and as an aficiona­ to fall back in time. There is appeared near to me. He works, such as "The Birth ,of do of his work, I was not nothing outside to keep you was blond, tall, but general­ Venus," were not included in ab,out to let my free time go in th is age. You may fall Iy unremarkable. H thc~t for first 50 B.C.E., although' that is trait, staring at ' it. This and three dollars for college time vi sitors, monotonous not to say that there were experience al on e made ' the students on Wednesdays. Psyching Out the Academy Dolores Tranquillino

Not to disappoint anyone, but the winners ofthis year's Oscar competition. doesn't usually give Oscars for comedies, Academy Awards have little to do with the Starting with the Supporting cate­ the award will go to Edward Norton. best picture and performances of the year. gories, it must be noted that a pattern has The Best Picture category is the next The golden Oscar hasn't been going to the developed throughout the years. One Oscar easiest to predict. Again there is a pattern: actors and films that have deserved it most. goes to a veteran and the other goes to a the Oscar goes to the one nominated for the If that statement were not true, talented newcomer. Last year, the veteran was Kevin most awards. Last year, Braveheart topped greats, like Spike Lee and Glenn Close Spacey and the newcomer was Mira the list of nominations and it won for Best would have trophies at home. Moreover, Sorvino. This year the pattern will probably Picture; the year before, the same situation Kevin Costner would never have been nom­ continue. Looking at the nominees for Best occurred with Forrest Gump. The nominees inated for Best Actor a few years ago. Supporting Actress (Joan Allen, Lauren for best picture are: The English Patient, Therefore, the question should be: Bacall, Juliette Binoche, Barbara Hershey, Fargo, Jerry Maguire, Secrets and Lies, and who and what gets Oscars and why? The and Marianne Jean-Baptiste) is it obvious Shine. Since The English Patient tops the truth is that the very talented actors usually that Lauren Bacall is the veteran. She has list with twelve nominations, it will be voted get their awards eventually, just not for their never received an Oscar, so she'll get it this ,as Best Picture of the year. Moreover, since best work. Take Nicolas Cage for example. year. the Oscar for Best Director usually matches He has giver:t above average performances Since the Supporting Actress Oscar the one for Best Picture, Anthony Minghella for years in films like Moonstruck. will go to a veteran, the Best Supporting (The English Patient) will win. However, what film did he get the gold for? Actor award will go to a newcomer. The ' The Best Actor and Best Actress cat­ The irritating and tedious Leaving, Las nominees are: Cuba Gooding, Jr., Willian H. egories are the most difficult to predict since Vegas. This Oscar was really for his previ­ Macy, Armin Muell,er-Stahl, Edward there is 110 definite pattern that defines the ous works. However, the Academy figured Norton, and James Woods. Out of the five, winners. Usually, the winners are a~tors that they made him wait long enough, so there are two newcomers: Gooding and who are nominated for playing disabled peo­ they gave it to him last year for that forget­ Norton. To figure out which of the two will pIe. Also, in many cases, the winners are table film. get it, it is necessary to examine the films. Americans, except if he or' she is a well­ This concept of "rewarding late," Gooding is up for Jerry Maguire and Norton liked, well-known British actor, such as along with other crafty Academy techniques is nominated for Primal Fear. Since Jerry ' Anthony Hopkins or Emma Thompson. must be kept in mind when predicting the Maguire is a comedy, and the Academy Finally, the Best Actress nominees Please see Academy, page 7 FEBRUARY / MARCH 1997 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT THE CURRENT FOCUS Page 7

Ke~)e31f'Cm~O "'."'co"',..... '.. design - "'"c- - -_. ,the U.~~""I~"''''' . Salem ,c•.. ' is mem,()1!ahl~ ' .' " i?foblem? wDJ'~dor ' . 'Hytnel '<' 't projecrweU,craftedand :well M~donn~' un(]U, lestlOna01 or the emotion of the environment; ea~h scene is a tedious repe .. deserved her Golden Globe Award for her work-here. Other tition of its predecessor. ,Moreover, Daniel Day-Liwis seems to notable perforp;ances are given by Jonathan Pryce and Antonio be acting for his ego rather than his audience. His performance Banderas ..(who should cop.sider",a sing~g career beca~se ,.e.e's so is arrogru:tt and showy, a contrast to Winona Ryder's intense ~ good). '" .» depiction of the accusatory:Abigail (who starts the witchcraft ¥· panic and finger-pointing). As, a resul~, the fiJm has the viewer,;" , rooting with Ryder . Day-Lewis. Not good.' " ,,/ • . #

Directed by John Frankenheimer The Island of Dr. Moreau Starring Marlon Brando; Val Kilmer and David Thewlis Dolores Thanquillino Rated PG-13 Now Available on New Line Home Video For anyone who' read H.G. Not long after this beginning, erence. Clearly, they didn't read Janeane Garofalo's radio veteri­ Wells' classic novel The Island which follows only a thin outline the book. In fact, they couldn't narian in The Truth About Cats of Dr, Moreau, the recent film of Wells' story, the lawyer dis­ have read even the Cliff's Notes. and Dogs. Her advice t!J her lis- adaptation will prove to be an covers that Dr. Moreau is using The standout aspect of the teners was: "You can love your . entertaining comedy. Not know­ genetics to tum the inhabitant film is that it is so disjointed and pet. YOll just can't LOVE your ing if it wants to be a thriller" animals into beast people. unlike Wells' novel tnat it pet." Apparently, Montgomery action flick, or a sci-fi horror Moreover, the vet (whose naIJIe be~omes amusing to see how chose the latter. film, the movie becomes a sa~ire is Montgomery) is Moreau's genpinely .bad it is. In many However, the silliness of the of the book. Unfortunately, the assistant whose job is to keep the cases, scenes. and characters film and Kilmer's character flip side to the situation is. that beasts in submission by use of were misinterpreted then filmed doesn't end with that innuendo. movie buffs unfamiliar with the drug$ and electronic implants. without any care as to what was In the climax, Montgomery story will find the film a dis­ Although this setup may sound ori~inally intended. For exam- actually has an emotional break­ jointed mess. intriguing, the ,film does nothing pIe, in the novel, Montgomery is down (as tho,ugh it were possible The "plot" deals with a, with it. The remainder of the defined as being a lonefy outcast for him to get any stranger). The United Nations lawyer (David story ' becomes a man-controls­ from his native land. He works audience gets to watch him do a Thewlis) who is rescued at sea animals-who-rebel-and-chase­ with Moreau because he sees bad Brando iJllpersonation while by a skirt-wearing, self-pro­ man film. no other future for himself. wearing makeup reminiscent of claimed veterinarian (V~l This summary doesn't really Moreover, he has befriended . the Borg in Star Trek: First Kilmer) aboard a cargo ship. give away anything. Anyone some of the beast people who Contact. The vet gives the injured lawyer who ever saw a B-horror film make him feel more secure in his Unfortunately, The Island,of some medicine, then takes him could predict the middle and life. In the film, the writers have Dr. Moreau gets even more to an island ruled by a Nobel ending without any effort. taken the "friendship" element absurd beyond Kilmer's "down­ Prize winning scien~ist, Dr. Moreover, the "writers" proba­ to inane extremes. It's a mani- fall" scenes. However, it does Moreau (Marlon Brando). bly knew no other films 'for ref- festation of the jokes told by not do so beyond toleration.

The Academy, Continuedfrompage 6 are: Brenda Blethyh (Secrets and Lies), Dial)e Keaton (Marvin's Oscar could go to a foreigner since last year's Best Actor and Room), Frances McDormand (Fargo), Kristin Scott Thomas (The Actress Awards went to Americans. In this case, the front ,runners English Patient), and Emil~ Watso~ (,sreqk,ing the Waves). Of t~e,. are Rush ,and Fiennes. Fiennes was nominated for a Supporting five nominees, only Keaton and McDormand are American. Actor award three years ago for Schindler's List, which could Moreover, Blethyn, Scott Thort:las, and Wa~son are not well-known remind the Academy of Fiennes' diverse' ability. However, Rush British actresses. Thus either Keaton or' McDormand will win. ' won the Golden Globe Award in January. Since the Academy might Since Keaton already has an Oscar, :McDormand will win. get stuck between these two, they may just decide to give the award . . The nominees' this year for Best Actor ' are: 'Tom Cruise' tb Cruise, even though it would be fOt: a comedy. After all, Cruise (Jerry Maguire), Ralph Fiennes ,tThe E~glish Patient), Woody wJn aGolden 'Globe too, and he wa~ snubbed for an Oscar several • • • • • '. t .' . Harrelson (The People Vs. ;Larry ,Flynt), Ge,offrey ~ush (Shine), and years ago ,for Born On the Fourth of July. Since the Award doesn't Billy Bob Thornton (Slingblade). The catch with these, five nomi- usually.go for the actual role, Tom Cruise will most likely win. nees is · that they're :all playing ~disabled" people. Rush arid The Academy Awards will be announced on Monday, March Thornton are portraying mentaily ,ill 'characters, ' while ' Cruise, 24. The ceremony will air on ABC (channel 5) at 9:00pm. The C?nly Fiennes, a~d HaIT~lson ' are ,all p.1aying characte~s 'who 'are "morally ' 'way to know if the 'pattern works is to see who wins. However, challenged." Although Cruise is n~minated , for a cort:lydy" the since there are always surprises when we least expect them, it isn't " • .1 .'. , _. . . ", Academy might decide ,that they owe)lim an award. However, the safe to bet money on these choices. FEBRUARY / MARCH 1997 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT THE CURRENT FOCUS Page 8

Opinion: Demonstrators continued from page 2

cy and homosexuality. Beyond that, they abused by a sadistic guard (Kevin B ~con) who religious imagery, the film absorbs the "'P'U'P'l'II refused to examine the depth of intent, the wickedly destroys their childhood and inno­ into the priest's situation, allowing one to moral of the film. The movie explores forgive­ cence. The four friends tell no one of this ' his feelings: Contrary tq new reports, he ness. It illustra~es "the reality that some abuse, not even their kind parish priest Father not concede easily. He is a Catholics are accusatory of sinners and allow Bobby- (Robert De Niro). When the film fast respected priest who feels compassion for the fallen no opportunity to restore themselves. forwards thirteen years, two of the boys, now victim (the guard) as well. He understands This issue is the reason why priests like the film . murderous hoods, see their former tormentor in although the man was abusive, he "id and many close-minded lay people conder,nn it. a restaurant and brutally kill him. The two deserve to die. However, the past cannot It is a movie for people with open minds, those other boys, all .grown up (Brad Pitt and Jason changed. All Father Bobby can do, in the whQ are not quick to jump on an issue without Patric), use their power to manipulate the trial sent, is. to be supportive of the two uat .lJa~;t;UI fiTst learning more about it. so that the secret of the abuse will be made pub­ boys. In like fashion, some Catholics are con­ lic and that their friends will go free. Pitt, a Thus both. Priest and Sleepers, though demning Sleepers for the same reasons. They lawyer, prosecutes the case. ·He finds a puppet morally perfect,. are deeper than their .."r... ,t ... <·t ... r,,1 hear that a priest commits perjury in· the film defense attorney for his friends in Dustin claim. Although they explore different issues and protest it without discovering why the man Hoffman. However, the most crucial' aspect of the priests they depict without emotion, lies in court. A Catholic lay group h~ advised the tri~ is for Father Bobby to lie on the stand, common thread can be seen in both. It is people to write letters to Warner Brothers in saying that the two accused murderers were' at theme of "the fall." In Priest, Father Greg p,rotest of the film. It w0uld also like people not a ball game with him. . . from grace. In Sleepers, the abused boys to see it. If someone takes that advice, how will When Father Bobby is first approached their childhood innocence. Both films a person know what he or she is protesting? with the request to lie, his acting suggested that what one should do when a leader or friend The person will not see the build up of the ten­ he would indeed. refuse. The boys were guilty, into trouble arid commits some soit of s;rime sion the film delivers before the priest finally but after J:>atric confesses their past of torment which many people would condemn thai does lie. Furthermore, the prospective viewer and abuse, the priest begins to understand. the son. Priest advises' forgiveness. Sleepers will miss out on a well crafted film; , killers' motive. He also sees that, the boys gests being available for that person. Do any For those unfamiliar with the book or the would 'not have become 'killers if they had not these messages really seem anti-Catholic? film, Sleepers tells the story of four young boys been abused. sent to reform school after a prank hospitaliz~s There is a slow, painful build up of tension a man. They are physically and sexually in Father 'Bobby's dilemma. With the use of

Teamwork, continued from page 5 Career Choices, continued from page 5 hot dog are being replaced with cooperation and peer support. A Fall '96, my senior year, . I worked at my intern- team player is reflective and open to feedback. To assess your I did my internship. I really ship from September. to team attitude, ask yourself the following questions: liked the atmosphere, and my co- December. What I learned there workers made me feel very spe- was incredible. I got the chance How open are you to differing opinions of others? cial. They talked to me in a pro- to work with Pagemaker, How much do you contribute toward the team's goals? fessional manner and allowed me Windows '95, ScanMaker, How well do you communicate with your teammates and supervisors? to be part of the decision-making Photoshop, and the Internet - I - Do you talk negatively behind your teammates' backs if you don't process. I can't say how much I learned to edit the company's with the direction the goals or approaches are taking? appreciate the experience they website. I advertised the compa- Do you suggest solutions as well as problems? gave me. This is what I call ny's pr?duct: I created flyers Do you get along well with your teammates? interning: working like a profes- and updated their homepage Do you. meet your deadlines? sional along 'side people who twice a week. I would encour- Do you understand and appreciate the styles of others? have so much to give and to age everybody to get an intern- Do you feel good about yourself? teach. I have heard other stu- ship, even if your major or dents say that they only make department doesn't require one. In order to approach and work w'ith others in a non-defensive manner photocopies, answer the phone, At least you will be getting expe- you have to feel good about yourself and what you have to open the mail, or do the filing at rience in your field and finding Teamwork is profitable. Good tearn players are valuable. Teamwork their interns?ips. I'm so glad"tI out if it really is what you want here to stay. got real, hands-on experience in to do for the rest of your life. my field. References: 1. Center for Creative Leadership Issues and Observations: vol. 11, no. 1,1991

2. The Customer Communicator, 1995 .

. 3. Dartnell Corporation, Merrill E. Douglass and Donna N. Douglass. fududing worItbyEm!'Wluel's Managementfor Teams (AMACOM). . Match 5 - April J 1997 ., " . ., ..... t . ~ Chery! Harris is an Adult Learner and a Senior Manager at Delta Dental Plan L,ilJian futmig .G~llery; '·E~afluel College MA . She shares responsibility for the leadel'ship of the Operations Division Cardinal CUshing Library, 400 The Fenway, Boston, MA Q2115 one other senior manager. . . ~ .

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