The Ivies Spirit

Editorial: Dance Show

Given that it's Ivies Weekend, it seems unlikely that anyone would want to go sit still in a dark room for an hour. With Harpswell, Pinestock, and the concert on the Quad, it's easy to understand why. However, we can think of at least one reason: It's called "Openings," and it's the spring dance concert going on Friday and Saturday.

Editorial: Our true Bowdoin

For those of us who are graduating in three weeks and stumbling out into the cold, hard, jobless world, now seems like a pretty good time to reflect upon how lucky we are to have been in college for the last year. While others have been stuck in a cubicle watching their 401k evaporate, or worse, been faced with the terrifying threat of unemployment, we've remained relatively insulated.

Editorial

This piece represents the opinion of The Bowdoin Orient editorial board.

April 24, 2009

For many of us, Ivies is one of the most exciting weekends of the year. It's a time for people to drop everything, and, yes, knock back a few beers. Or knock back a lot of beers.

Undeniably, alcohol is part of what makes Ivies fun. But at the same time, especially for those of us who might be unsettled by the idea of drinking for three, five, or seven days in a row, it's important to remember that it's by no means the only purpose.

As we see it, the major goals of Ivies are as follows:

1. Ignore work entirely

2. Be outside as much as possible

3. Spend time with friends

4. Listen to great music

5. Let go of inhibitions

It is true that drinking can aid in the achievement of these goals, but none of them inherently demands alcohol. Anyone can experience a successful Ivies without the assistance of substances.

In all seriousness, Ivies can be intimidating for those who aren't interested in drinking, or who only want to drink a little. However, we would urge everyone to embrace the spirit of community that coalesces around the Quad on Saturday. Just make that embrace in whatever way works best for you.

The editorial represents the majority view of The Bowdoin Orient's editorial board, which comprises Nick Day, Nat Herz, Will Jacob, Mary Helen Miller, and Cati Mitchell.

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