The California Tech [email protected] Volume CXVII Number 5 Pasadena, California tech.caltech.edu October 28, 2013 ARC hosts first student-faculty lunch of the year
MALVIKA VERMA Professor Geoff Blake, the ARC Chair Master of Student Houses (MOSH) and generous On Thursday, October 24, sponsor of these lunches, the Academics and Research graced the occasion and Committee (ARC) hosted the first kicked off the first SFL, along student-faculty lunch (SFL) of the with ARC representative year, held in Ruddock House. Jonathan Liu and ARC Chair The faculty in attendance were Malvika Verma. Professor Nets Katz (Mathematics), A record number of Professor Christiane Orcel 97 undergraduates signed (Languages), Professor Ryan up to attend the lunch. Patterson (Physics), Professor Unfortunately, to maintain a Kristine Haugen (English), and reasonable student to faculty Professor Heather Knutson ration (6:1), the ARC could (Planetary Sciences). only take 32 of these students.
Professor of Mathematics Nets Katz discusses his research with students. -Neeli Mishra
about his research with The student-faculty lunch the students at his table, occurred just one hour after the many of whom were math new President-Elect, Thomas majors or prospective Rosenbaum, was introduced to math majors. Caltech in a ceremony at the Professor Orcel, Athenaeum lawn. on the other hand, ARC representative Nima described her fascination Badizadegan and ARC Chair with collecting art Malvika Verma invited the future Professor of Physics Ryan Patterson, discusses hot topics in physics. from all over the world. President and his wife Professor -Neeli Mishra Her current interest is Katherine Faber to join the African-American art. students at the student-faculty The ARC has discussed with faculty. The discussions at the Professor Haugen encouraged lunch, but unfortunately, they had In this issue increasing the frequency lunch varied depending on which students to use Caltech’s Hixon prior plans and were unable to of these lunches in order professor students were sitting Writing Center and the peer attend the event. to account for the massive with. tutors in the houses to seek help The ARC hopes to have them at increase student interest in Professor Nets Katz, who is when writing essays or even SURF a student-faculty lunch within the meeting and interacting teaching Math 1a this term, talked proposals. next year. NEWS New events from the Caltech Y 3 News briefs from around the globe Helping readers burst out of the Caltech bubble
OPINION Connor touches Need to know < 100 words about the world this week topics sorted from good to bad upon social ef-4 by The Tech Eds – fects of MOOCs US marine released 4 months of captivity before Columbian rebels release Kevin Scott [BBC]
FEATURE JP Morgan pays fine 5 billion dollars paid to mortgage lenders in settlement with FHFA [BBC] Nailen reviews 5 -month trial period intended for Africans without internet access [BBC] Best Coast EP Use Wikipedia by SMS 3
GTA V wins award 1st place at the Golden Joystick awards given to game by 10 M voters [BBC]
SPORTS US spying leaked 35 world leaders have been monitored by US intelligence since 2006 [CNN] Fencing and Wa- Pirates attack US ship 2 Americans captured off Nigerian coast, Nigerian navy cooperating [CNN] ter Polo victories 7 Afghan civilians bombed 14 killed while on their way to a wedding; no suspects announced [BBC] ews 2 October 28, 2013 N THE CALIFORNIA TECH Food with Mannion! ASCIT Minutes Minutes for October 23, 2013. Taken by Catherine Jamshidi
Do you like eating food? Officers Present: Connor Coley, Connie Hsueh, Malvika Verma, Michelle Tang, Zach Rivkin, How about free food at nice restaurants? Monica Enlow
Ever want to tell the world exactly what you think of Guests: Connor Rosen, Margaret Lee said food? Call to Order: 10:07 pm The Tech will be beginning a new column to chroni- President’s Report (Zach):
cle the foodie experiences of new writers every other Caltech has selected a new President: Thomas Rosenbaum of UChicago The Strategic Identity Project board is recommending a Final Positioning Statement, details week...The Catch: They’ll be going head-to-head with TBA Student Faculty Honor Code committee meetings continue to be productive Tom Mannion who will be reviewing the same restau- There will be an open UHCC (Undergraduate Honor Code Committee) meeting this term
rant. If you have ever thought you were more of a gour- ASCIT Survey Results: mand than our resident master chef, now’s your chance >95% of students prefer the house they rotated into over the house they rotated out of. Implication: Rotation emphatically beats random assignment to prove it! When asked what would be the ideal time for Problem Sets to be due, a majority of students chose a time between 4 - 6pm. There was little support for times between 2am - noon. The student body is being periodically polled for their view of Student - Admin relations. Over Email us for a spot on the list at [email protected] the summer, more than 30% of respondents set relations to 1/10, corresponding to “The US and Iran have better relations.” In this past week’s survey, upperclassmen 1/10s were just under 30%. Freshmen have a more positive opinion. Other results will be made available to undergraduates elsewhere. If you have a question for the student body, email me at: [email protected]
The California Tech Officer’s Reports:
V.P. of Academic Affairs (ARC Chair: Malvika): Caltech 40-58, Pasadena, CA 91125 advertising e-mail: [email protected] Write At the CUE Meeting, we discussed: editorial e-mail: [email protected] Increasing TQFR Response Rates Caltech has very low response rates compared to other colleges Professors read the TQFRs, so fill them out to improve teaching Editors-in-Chief Proposal - If you fill out your TQFRs, you can register for classes the next term 1 week early Jonathan Schor articles for Increasing the percentage of students who do research Stanford Schor Incentivize students to do research during the year with credits Should we have a Seminar day during the year for people who do year-round research? News Editors Congrats to the new Freshmen ARC Reps: Emily Mazo (Page), Jay Palekar (Avery), and Alison Neera Shah Lui (Lloyd)! Nehaly Shah the Tech The first Student Faculty Lunch was held this past Thursday in Ruddock Dining Hall. It was Photography Editor well-attended and we expect there will be continued interest in this program. If you have any Alex Hsu professors that you’d like to invite, let your ARC Rep know. The current list of ARC Reps can be found at http://donut.caltech.edu/ascit/ARC_Reps
V.P. of Non-Academic Affairs (IHC Chair: Connor):
The new President has already expressed interest in meeting with student leaders over the coming months as he adjusts to Caltech. Derek Finke has accepted the position for South House RLC. He’ll be starting on November 1st. There will likely be a formal training session for new House leaders following House elections in February/March. The annual Leadership Conference will take place during 2nd term and will focus on enabling Staff frosh to become more involved. Brad Chattergoon Malvika Verma Any Student Life and Housing Committee Concerns should be shared with Connor Coley or Justin Koch The IHC, with help from others, is putting together a comprehensive document detailing the current House system and potential plans for its expansion (i.e. Bechtel). If you would like to help with this process, please contact [email protected]
Director of Operations (Connie):
Little Ts have arrived and will be distributed soon to interested students. A PDF copy can be found at http://arc.caltech.edu/files/Little%20t%202013-2014.pdf Although Club Registration is going slower than expected, many problems have been resolved. Club Funding Day has been pushed back two weeks to November 10th to allow clubs to schedule time slots. Officers should revisit the email sent out last Thursday for more information
Treasurer (Monica):
Circulation Manager Met with Tom and Lorrie to discuss a new reimbursement procedure. More information to Michael Paluchniak come. Advisor Richard Kipling Social Director (Michelle):
The Tech is published weekly except dur- The Hollyween party was held this past Saturday in the SAC courtyard. ing vacation and examination periods by There will be an Interhouse Pumpkin Carving Contest next Saturday on the Olive Walk. the Associated Students of the California Institute of Technology, Inc. The opinions There will be a Rathskeller event one of the upcoming weekends. expressed herein are strictly those of the The Wallpaper Concert will not be taking place during 1st term, but we are working to schedule authors and advertisers. this on campus. Letters and submissions are welcome; e- mail submissions to [email protected] as plain-text attachments, including the au- thor’s name, by Friday of the week before publication. The Tech does accept anony- Secretary (Cat): mous contributions under special circum- stances. The editors reserve the right to edit and abridge all submissions for any Making ASCIT Thank You Cards reason. All written work remains property Attended the Student Experience Committee Meeting with Connor Rosen (and his guest, Zach of its author. Rivkin) at the Board of Trustees Retreat as the undergraduate representatives. We brought back The advertising deadline is 5 PM Friday; all advertising should be submitted elec- many concerns and questions the trustees have for students. There will be more to discuss at tronically or as camera-ready art, but The next week’s meeting. Tech can also do simple typesetting and arrangement. All advertising inquiries get paid up to $30 should be directed to the business man- If anyone has any questions or concerns about a section of the minutes please email the ager at [email protected]. For subscrip- appropriate officer. We are happy to answer any questions. tion information, please send mail to “Subscriptions.” Meeting Adjourned: 11:03 pm THE CALIFORNIA TECH ews N October 28, 2013 3
Last week’s ASCIT Minutes* Caltech Y Column: *(Since they were not published last week)
Minutes for October 16, 2013. Taken by Catherine Jamshidi Look out for new events PHOEBE ANN 2. Hathaway Sycamores LAURA SANTOSO Saturday | November 2nd | 1:30-4:30pm | Officers Present: Zach Rivkin, Malvika Verma, Connor Coley, Contributing Writers Highland Park Connie Hsueh, Catherine Jamshidi, Monica Enlow Volunteer at Hathaway-Sycamores, a group Hi everyone! This is the Caltech Y Column, that supports local underprivileged but motivated designed to inform you about the Y and the high school students. Some of the subjects being opportunities we provide for you to inspire tutored are AP Chemistry, AP Physics, and AP Guests: Margaret Lee, Connor Rosen your passions, whether by participating in our Calculus. For more info and to RSVP Email Josie programs or leading your own! Kishi [email protected].
Call to Order: 10:01 pm Founded by students in 1916, the Y was 3. Ice Cream Competition organized to provide extracurricular activities In an effort to further familiarize students with planned and implemented by students as the location and services of the Caltech Y, the an opportunity to gain leadership skills and ExComm, with help from Tom Mannion, will be President’s Report (Zach): discover their passions and themselves. The holding a competition among the undergrad and mission of today’s Y remains the same—to grad houses to come up with the best new flavor Student Experience Committee meeting, at the Board of Trustees provide opportunities that will prepare students of ice cream. The winners and, of course, tasting retreat, is on 10/25. to become engaged, responsible citizens of opportunities will take place at the Y. Date(s) and the world. The Y seeks to broaden students’ more details to come. ASCIT Survey is being sent out. worldviews, and raise social, ethical, and cultural If you have an idea for a large fun event that will bring the awareness through teamwork, community 4. Outdoor Adventures T-Shirt Design undergraduates together, contact Connor or me. The Anonymous engagement, activism, and leadership. Contest fund has a healthy budget and there are other funding sources The Caltech Y’s mission and core values stand Deadline Friday, November 15th available as needed. on five key pillars: leadership, civic engagement, Hello Caltech Y Outdoor enthusiasts! Do you service, adventure, and perspective. Regardless have graphic design skills? We need your help! of which pillars capture your interest, feel free to The Caltech Y Outdoor Adventures group is attend any of the below programs, or contact us designing and printing custom T-shirts to wear Officer’s Reports: to organize your own! when hiking, having fun outdoors, or even for daily use around campus. The T-shirts will be a V.P. of Academic Affairs (ARC Chair: Malvika): Here’s a sampling of past programs held by blend of polyester and cotton especially designed the Y: to stay dry and comfortable while you are active, • Alternative Spring Breaks: Costa Rica, but still be soft like a regular T-shirt. We are Increasing TQFR Response Rates Proposals New York, Yosemite, San Diego, San Francisco looking for a cool design that incorporates our Caltech has very low response rates • Make-A-Difference Day: Hillsides love for hiking and outdoor activities with our Professors read the TQFRs, so fill them out to improve teaching Home for Children, LA County Arboretum and Caltech and Caltech Y affiliation. If you have Proposal - If you fill out your TQFRs, you can register for classes Botanic Garden, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles graphic design experience, we encourage you to (Coachart), Eaton Canyon, Lifeline for Pets submit a design for the T-shirts. The creator of the the next term 1 week early • Explore LA: Lakers game, Next to winning design will get a free T-shirt and a $25 Student Faculty Lunch this Thurs - record signups for it! Normal musical, Norton Simon Museum trip discount on the Caltech Y Outdoor Adventures Use the Take-a-Prof to lunch program if you want to hang out Our most recent events was Explore LA: camping trip of their choice (good for trips to with a prof more Cirque Du Soleil’s new show TOTEM. Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, and other National The ARC is assembling a committee to discuss MOOCs. and State Parks). Submit your design in .pdf or Upcoming Events: .ai form to Jeremy Sandler, [email protected] Are they a benefit to Caltech students in terms of teaching by Friday, November 15th. quality? 1. Rise Tutoring Program If you have any questions at all, feel free to How do we evaluate them? Mon.-Thurs. | 4-6pm | Winnett, 2nd Floor contact the Caltech Y at (626) 395-6163 or The Caltech Y Rise Program is currently [email protected]. Feel free to drop by at accepting new tutors. The Rise Program is an one of our weekly meetings at the Caltech Y at afterschool math and science-focused tutoring the Caltech Y (505 S. Wilson, next to CEFCU), V.P. of Non-Academic Affairs (IHC Chair: Connor): program that serves public school students Mondays at noon. Lunch is provided. between grades 8 and 12. The tutoring takes Go to http://caltechy.org/lists/ to self- The IHC and a few additional students are drafting a paper place on the Caltech campus Monday-Thursday subscribe to announcement lists for upcoming to discuss the current status of the house system, the possible from 4pm-6pm. For more information about events and sign-up information. expansion of that system, and the implications on the support/ the program and to apply please visit our website For a student’s perspective, feel free to contact at: http://caltechy.org/programs_services/ Phoebe Ann at [email protected] or resources that houses provide. tutoring/. Laura Santoso at [email protected]. South House RLC offer made Director of Operations (Connie): SURF presenters awarded Online club registration is ongoing, and the system, though buggy, has been mostly successful 2013 Perpall Speaking 2013 Gee Family Club Funding Day has been pushed back to Nov. 10. Club officers Competition semi- Poster Competition should stay tuned for more information on how to apply for finalists Lev Krazyman finalists annual ASCIT funding Grace Leishman Amir Abdolrahim Jarvis Li Michael Dieterle Poorheravi Jonathan Liu Joseph Grappone Treasurer (Monica): Da An Jacqueline Masehi-Lano Ritvik Mishra Karsyn Bailey Meghana Pagadala Ellen Price Information about the new reimbursement process will be sent Juliette Becker Ketaki Panse Esha Wang out shortly. Moriah Bischann Misha Raffiee Will Bunting Angad Rekhi Oliver Chen Connor Rosen Erin Evans Iva Rreza Katherine Fisher Keegan Ryan If anyone has any questions or concerns about a section of the Mark Greenfield Elly Shao minutes please email the appropriate officer. We are happy to James Ha Benjamin Suslick Alexander Hartz Charles Tschirhart answer any questions. Greg Izatt Malvika Verma Robert Johnson Lekha Viswanadham Meeting Adjourned: 11:51 pm Devashish Joshi Benjamin Wang pinion THE CALIFORNIA TECH 4 October 28, 2013 O Caltech and MOOCs Part IV: The Social Reach of MOOCs CONNOR ROSEN of debate even among MOOC Jose State University experimented MOOCs. One educational blogger is less clear. Professor Rangel’s Contributing Writer providers. Some see MOOCs as a with an Udacity-run MOOC commented that taking issue with course had a “modal degree level” potential replacement for a college to replace their remedial and low MOOC completion rates is of masters or above. The answers This is fourth in an ongoing education – to the point that some introductory math course for akin to saying that Stanford has a to Professor Lester’s survey for series of articles detailing Caltech’s instructors believe on-campus incoming students, online students five percent graduation rate because his course imply that at least involvement with and initial forays education and undergraduate exhibited a far lower passing rate fewer than 1,000 students graduate 50 percent of the students had into online education. Previous students will vanish from higher of the final exam than on-campus for every 20,000 applicants – and attained a college education, with articles have introduced MOOCs, education in the near future, with students in the normal class (29 to many MOOC enrollees are like a substantial percentage having a Caltech’s partnerships with MOOC all instruction happening over 80 percent in remedial math, with applicants to a school, unsure strong background in biology or providers, the anticipated benefits the Internet. Others see MOOCs 51 to 74 percent in the statistics whether they are truly interested neuroscience. of MOOCs, and the potential as an opportunity to supplement class being the closest comparison). or capable of the subject but willing These numbers raise an pedagogical use of MOOCs at college education – to use them The reasons for this are unclear, but to try. However, the point remains interesting question for Caltech. Caltech. to support existing educational the burden of proof of the efficacy that Stanford doesn’t claim to While it is unclear that MOOCs are ventures, for the flipped classroom of MOOCs remains on the side of educate 20,000 new students each truly expanding educational access One of the most prominent model, and to serve as the baseline those who claim that they match year, but MOOCs boast enrollment to previously unsupported groups features of MOOCs is their to inspire interest and passion in normal courses. data as a sign of their reach, instead and populations, or reaching the “massive” nature, attracting new students to convince them to Additionally, there is a concern of outcomes and completion rates. numbers of students they claim numbers of students that lend pursue further, more thorough, about the completion rates of Another question about the to, the specific population that is themselves to hyperbole and investigation of the subject. MOOCs in general. A study of social reach of MOOCs is what taking the greatest advantage of disbelief. The largest MOOC ever The data are unfortunately MOOC completion rates for 86 population takes them. The MOOCs may be of more interest to offered on Coursera enrolled more lacking in this area. Educational MOOCs offered by ten different idea that MOOCs give a college Caltech and more in keeping with than 240,000 students – numbers research supports the notion that platforms (including Coursera education to those who would never our mission. that dwarf the four-year enrollment distance education (i.e. online and EdX) showed that the average had access otherwise is challenged The opportunity to reach of the largest universities in courses that mimic normal completion rate for MOOCs was by the demographic data available professionals in science and the country. The expansion of courses in size, instructor- just over 7 percent – with Coursera from many MOOCs. For example, engineering, who have the educational opportunities offered student interaction, and feedback and EdX both showing average over 80 percent of students who background and experience by utilizing MOOCs – the ability and assessment methods) can completion rates even below that. participated in MOOCs run by the to appreciate the unique and to offer a high-quality college- match traditional education One Caltech offering with public University of Edinburgh (which challenging material that Caltech level course and education for in certain subjects. However, data (Professor Henry Lester’s published a study comparing five students are exposed to in our free to anyone in the world – most MOOCs, because of their course Drugs and the Brain) is MOOCs offered on Coursera) had courses and Caltech faculty is for many at the heart of the massive and open nature, do not included in this set, and had a 6.6 already attained at least a college are most suited to teaching, is “educational revolution” MOOCs track the performance of their percent completion rate. Professor education. Duke’s graduate-level promising for Caltech. As long as offer. There remain, however, students. It is difficult to measure Antonio Rangel’s economics course Bioelectricity course, which was instructors keep that in mind, and several unanswered questions student retention of information, had an estimated completion rate likewise the subject of a public target their education to the people about the true scope and influence performance in higher-level of between five and ten percent study and report, had a student they want to and are reaching of MOOCs. courses, and other measures of (the data for both of these courses population that was over 70 instead of a mythic population of The first, and perhaps most learning due to the anonymous was presented at the February 2013 percent college educated, and hundreds of thousands of under- difficult to answer, is whether nature of online education. The faculty meeting). more than a third of the students educated students with no prior MOOCs can truly offer an small amount of data suggests a There is some dispute over enrolled had a degree or work exposure to science, Caltech may educational experience comparable difference between MOOCs and whether completion rates are an experience in a related field. The actually be able to impact the world to a college course. This is an area normal college courses. When San appropriate measure for success of public data for Caltech MOOCs using online education. Brad/Chad Couture: Dress up to your body type
BRAD CHATTERGOON • Boot cut: Jeans of this cut be combined to produce different Staff Writer are designed to taper to the effects. Types of washes: knee with a slight flare at the “Jeans” are the colloquial term bottom. They were originally • Dark for pants made of denim. pretty popular in the 90’s • Light They are the most commonly but have largely fallen out of • Grey used item in anyone’s wardrobe popularity lately. • Distressed and the average American has five I recommend finding a • Dirty pairs. “slim-boot” cut if this cut • Black If you have less than that appeals to you. It suits almost A note on other topics: then this is a great excuse to go all body types. shopping. There are a few notable • Skinny leg: This a specific Designer vs Non-Designer categorizations of jeans: cut, wash type of slim fit that tends to be Jeans: and fit. very tight. Designer jeans are jeans that Types of fit: In most cases, guys should are in the range upwards of $100 avoid this type of cut as it and good examples are 7 for All • Slim: This fit is the tightest in tends to be too tight and the Mankind and Lucky Brand Jeans. the category but “slim” does not fad of “if it ain’t tight it ain’t Designer jeans are desirable for the necessarily mean “skinny”. right” has fortunately been quality of the material and comfort Slim fit jeans are the most largely left behind. or special fits and designs that are popular fit in recent times as it • Straight leg: As the name usually not available at lower tiers. gives a fitted appearance to jeans. suggests, this cut is marked An example of this is 7 for All • Regular: This fit is characterized by a uniform straight fit from Mankind. by slimness in the seat and thigh top to bottom. It is the most The first pair that I bought from but looseness in the legs (i.e. below flattering of all the cut-fit the brand was so comfortable and the knee). combinations. fit so well that I’d often fall asleep Think of regular fit as still fitted The slim-straight is the in them (and not just in classes but not as tight as slim. most popular cut of the either). • Relaxed: This fit is very loose current style scene, and I recommend purchasing a pair throughout the entire pant without should be your go-to choice if of designer jeans once in your life being baggy. Legs have a lot of in doubt. if you can afford it and seeing if it’s room in the length of the jean. • Low-rise: This is a sub- for you. • Loose: Think of this as what category of cuts, and is Wearing jeans based on the is referred to as “baggy” jeans. marked by a jean that sits time of day: Generally best avoided unless lower on the torso. This is a There is an idea of “Day Jeans” going for a specific type of look. personal preference category. vs “Night Jeans”. Day jeans should A very important part of jean This student is modeling a slim cut pair of dark wash jeans. Try experiment- Washes are what define be on the lighter side while night choice is in the cut. Here are the ing with various washes to find which suits certain outfits best. the color and pattern of the jeans should edge on the darker main types of cuts for men: -Stanford Schor jean and different washes can side. THE CALIFORNIA TECH eature F October 28, 2013 5 Best Coast showcases improved sound on new EP NAILEN MATSCHKE than its predecessors, it is still a production), though, is the vocals. chorus song structure, it usually Best Coast has up their sleeves, Contributing Writer substantial release. The seven-song Cosentino, who used to suffer from gets called simplistic. Few bands, and then one more thing: punchy, EP dropped on October 22nd, and stage fright and would cover up though, will spend the entire song upbeat drums. Obviously, this isn’t Those familiar with the indie unsurprisingly it is pretty much her vocals with effects, provides a playing one riff, which is exactly something that should be in every scene are probably aware of Los exactly what you’d expect from a much stronger delivery here, with what Best Coast did on their first song, but for these two it makes Angeles’s own Best album. On The them fun and even danceable, Coast, consisting of Only Place, they despite some of the heavier lyrics singer, songwriter, had far more on the EP. These are songs that and guitarist Bethany guitar parts could almost be described as pop- Cosentino, and her that involved punk, and wouldn’t be out of place multi-instrumentalist more than a on mainstream radio. On the other partner Bobb Bruno. few chords, but end of the spectrum, the only song After their formation I can’t think of I really dislike is the second to last, in 2009, the band’s a single time “Baby I’m Crying,” which with some first full-length they were in the changes to the lyrics (though not album, Crazy For spotlight. From that many, really) could honestly You (2010), garnered “This Lonelybe a Christmas ballad. It relies on critical acclaim as Morning” on, just about every cliché there is for well as commercial we get real the type of song it’s supposed to success, thanks to guitar solos, be, making for something that just strong support on the where there isn’t interesting or that enjoyable. Internet. Featuring are no vocals The last song, “I Don’t Know How,” bright but decidedly or anything starts off like another one of these, lo-fi production, else on top to but halfway through switches to an remarkably simple detract from the energetic and simple pattern that instrumental parts, listener’s focus. makes for a good way to play out and floaty vocals, the Even this small the EP. album captured the change adds Best Coast may not be the most sun-baked haze of variety to the innovative or impressive band, Southern California music and lets but they know how to write songs in the summer almost them keep the that are fun, atmospheric, and easy perfectly. True to its flow going in to listen to, while maintaining title, the album’s lyrics each song. meaningful lyrics. While Fade focused obsessively, Moving on to Away isn’t actually a full length unhealthily so, on how the middle of the release, I can honestly say I like badly Cosentino wants record, we see it even more than their first two to be with a certain that this release albums. They brought back a lot person. In 2012, the is no slacker on of what made their first unique, band released its variety, either. “I combined it with the parts that second album, The Wanna Know” worked from their second, and Only Place. They and “Fade then added improvements in every intentionally went in -www.radioutd.com Away” sound area of their sound, leading to an a noticeably different almost straight EP with variety, and high quality direction, with high-quality band with a couple of albums under a less ethereal, more pointed style off of Crazy For You, and without in just about all of it. Fans of their production, far more complexity its belt. Their sound moves back and a chorus that just makes you the overarching themes of that indie, surf, and lo-fi rock brethren in the instrumental parts, and no from the sparkling guitars of The want to sing along, which is not album to support them, I think such as Wavves and Surfer Blood clear unifying theme to the songs. Only Place to the grittier distortion how I’d describe Best Coast’s earlier that actually makes them some of should absolutely enjoy this The latter, combined with almost of Crazy For You, and uses a much work. While the links between the the weaker tracks on Fade Away. release. In addition, fans of some painfully simplistic lyrics, ended more simplistic – though not by songs aren’t as clear as on their first The two songs in between them, more high-energy garage rock and up weakening the album, making any means lo-fi – mix as well. When release, the theme of time and how “Who Have I Become?” and “Fear pop-punk acts like FIDLAR or it feel by comparison unemotional the record starts, we are welcomed much (or little) we have of it left is of My Identity,” however, are two The Hives, should appreciate the and mechanical. by “This Lonely Morning” and its common, and works much better of my favorites from their entire album thanks to the expansion of Fade Away is not actually fade into some guitar and drum than those of The Only Place. discography. They do everything Best Coast’s sound on Fade Away. a full-length album but an EP, parts that wouldn’t sound out The next big change is the the opening track does, with great They’re so easy to get into, though, though seeing as it clocks in as of place on Crazy For You. The guitar fills and solos. When a vocals, decent progression to the that rock or alternative fans owe only a song or two’s worth shorter first clear difference (besides the band uses a simple repeated verse/ songs, a utilization of every trick them a listen. NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE PROFESSOR FOR THE FEYNMAN TEACHING PRIZE! Here’s your chance to nominate your favorite professor for the 2013-14 Richard P. Feynman Prize for Excellence in Teaching! You have from now until January 2, 2014 to submit your nomination package to the Provost’s Office to honor a professor who demon- strates, in the broadest sense, unusual ability, creativity, and innovation in undergraduate and graduate classroom or laboratory teaching.
The Feynman Prize is made possible through the generosity of Ione and Robert E. Paradise, with additional contributions from an anonymous local couple. Nominations for the Feynman Teaching Prize are welcome from faculty, students, postdoctoral scholars, staff, and alumni.
All professorial faculty of the Institute are eligible. The prize consists of a cash award of $3,500, matched by an equivalent raise in the annual salary of the awardee. A letter of nomination and detailed supporting material, including, but not limited to, a cur- riculum vitae, course syllabus or description, and supporting recommendation letters should be emailed to [email protected] or directed to the Feynman Prize Selection Committee, Office of the Provost, Mail Code 206-31, at the California Institute of Technol- ogy, Pasadena, California, 91125. Nomination packages are due by January 2, 2014.
Additional information including guidelines for the prize and FAQ may be found at http://provost.caltech.edu/FeynmanTeach- ingPrize. Further information can also be obtained from Karen Kerbs (626-395-6039; [email protected]) in the Provost’s Office. eature THE CALIFORNIA TECH 6 October 28, 2013 F Today’s Puzzle: Crossword
Across 52. Slump 29. Total 55. Rigging support 30. Assist 1. Astern 58. Throw forcefully 31. Long narrative 4. Likelyhood 60. Languish poem 8. Valuable resource 62. Created by interlacing 32. Period of calm 13. Strong and healthy strands of fabric weather 14. Garrison 64. Requirement 33. Leg joint 15. Cut closely 66. Halo 34. Part of the eye 16. Midday 67. Legal defense 35. Not any 17. Floating ice mass 68. Appointment 36. Jest 18. Oasis 69. Pack tightly 37. Golfing term 19. Dodge 70. Ideal 40. Female hog 21. Run easily 71. Portent 41. Large tub 23. Currency unit 72. Evergreen tree 43. Stain 24. Saturated 44. Solemn promise 25. Enfold Down 45. Fuel 27. Make a request 46. Depend 29. Scorch 1. Overhead 49. Erase 30. Viper 2. Drift 50. Kind of seabird 31. Moose 3. Look after 51. Freshwater fish 34. Trauma 4. Not on 52. Fry briefly over high 37. Commiseration 5. Currency heat 38. Wordplay 6. Wilt 53. Pointer 39. Space for movement 7. Pace 54. Chew 40. Deplorable 8. Deciduous tree 55. Moved through 41. Despicable 9. Hut water 42. Writing fluid 10. Rescue 56. Field game 43. Entrance 11. Flat 57. Zealous 45. Prophet 12. Portable shelter 59. Unfasten 47. Witness 13. Afresh 61. Posing no difficulty 48. Swerve 20. Pitcher 63. Nothing 49. Nutritional regimen 22. Compass direction 65. Lair 50. Acquire 26. Column of light [www.puzzlechoice.com] 51. Percussion instrument 28. Secret agent
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No experience needed, no hard labor, flexible schedules. *Requirements: Caltech student, Positive attitude, Friendly personality
To apply email Adam Jacobo ([email protected]) or call (626) 395-5907
For info on Caltech Public Events visit: www.caltech.edu/content/ public-events THE CALIFORNIA TECH ports S October 28, 2013 7 Two Caltech fencers place Weekly Scoreboard
Men’s Water Polo first at IFCSC tournament vs. Chaffey (at La Verne) GoCaltech Katie Fisher had a solid Highlighting the men’s portion W, 12-7 Final Caltech fencing season got afternoon in the foil event. Fisher of the event for Caltech was underway on Matthew Jin. Saturday as the The first-year Men’s Water Polo Beavers hosted won the foil the Intercollegiate completion at La Verne Fencing Conference by posting a L, 16-5 Final of Southern perfect record California (IFCSC) in pool and Open Tournament at bracket play (9- the Braun Gym. 0). Men’s Soccer A pair of Caltech Eugene fencers brought Vinitsky also at Redlands home first place had a solid L, 5-0 Final finishes while a host afternoon in of other Beavers foil by claiming placed in the leaders. a third place Christine Meyer A Caltech men’s foilist squares off against an opponent. finish. Women’s Volleyball won the epee -gocaltech.com J o h n competition by Christian had at La Verne topping teammate Ingrid Fielder reached the semifinals of the the Beavers best finish during the L, 3-0 Final in the final match-up. Meyer seven-person field before falling in epee competition by posting a fifth went through pool play with a a hard fought bout. place finish in the 20-person field. near-perfect 5-1 mark and then Shi En Kim also had a third Harrison Miller took sixth place marched through the bracket place finish as the sophomore during the saber event, which was Men’s Soccer round undefeated, well en route to reached the semifinal bout in saber the best finish for the Beavers in finishing first. before being defeated. that event. at Claremont-M-S Beavers water polo maintains L, 8-0 Final Men’s Water Polo winning streak against Chaffey vs. Claremont-M-S GoCaltech Chris Bradley and Patric Eck to aid The junior tied Connor Lee and L, 16-7 Final On Saturday, October 26, the in the win. Eck with two assists. Beavers men’s water polo team Bradley scored four times Grabowski blocked 14 shots in played a pair of contests at the while Eck tickled the net on three posting his 10 double-figure save La Verne aquatics center against occasions as Caltech won their game of the season. Women’s Volleyball Chaffey College and University of third contest of the season. It is the fourth straight win for vs. Chapman La Verne. Jerome Skelly added two goals Caltech over the Panthers. The Caltech won against Chaffey to aid in the winning cause. streak began in the 2011 season. L, 3-0 Final with a final score of 12-7. The Skelly was just as generous on The final score against La Verne Beavers got a pair of hat tricks from the opposite end of Caltech’s goal. was a loss at 16-5. SFL Lab 326 Open House Information
Date: Tuesday November 5th, 2013
Time: 10:30am - 2:30pm
SFL Lab 326 is the Caltech Library’s NEW interactive computer classroom, available for classes, workshops, and training sessions.
With 8 dual-screen Windows workstations on moveable tables, 3 AirPlay-en- abled monitors, and AppleTV, Lab326 is an intimate, immersive instruction space.
Reservations are accepted 24 hours (or more) in advance for classes and ses- sions. For more information or to make a reservation, visit: http://library.caltech.edu/about/group_study_room_policy.html or email us at library@ caltech.edu THE CALIFORNIA TECH umor H October 28, 2013 8
Acquired Taste Dr. Z
The California Tech Caltech 40-58 For more photos, Pasadena, CA 91125 videos, and archives of previous issues, check out the Tech website!
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