Crimson opinion writer
Sandhya Kumar
Latest Content
We (Still) Need More Women in STEM
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I am especially appreciative of women like the Harvard computers, who quietly set a precedent that made it easier for students like myself to participate in science.
Is College Worth It? Not Necessarily, But a Higher Education Is
A formal college education may not be the right option for everyone. This shouldn’t discourage us; it should remind us to consider the myriad of ways education can empower and uplift.
Why Networks Net-Work
Within the cost-benefit analysis of Harvard networking seems to diverge from the animal kingdom, we each have the potential to make connections with anyone and everyone with little or no consequence; we are afforded the luxury to choose. Rather than networking for survival, we network for problem set buddies, friends in high places, and critical professional connections that can help us secure selective dream jobs and future plans. This element of choice can lead to some negative consequences of social interactions.
Duck, Duck, Stress
It’s difficult to avoid jumping headfirst into Harvard life and its pressure cooker environment. Many ducks want to just start paddling: doing summer comps for competitive clubs, or reading ahead for difficult classes. But instead of focusing on the ripples made by the ducks around you, it is important to focus on doing your best — even if that’s floating instead of paddling.
The Uncompromisable Eight Hours
If you’re dozing off during a particularly long lecture, or can only get through the day when you’re amped up on caffeine, your body is telling you that you need rest and recuperation. So for all the habitual Lamonsters, ask for extensions, take later classes, and go to sleep!
Why I Call Home(Sickness)
Communication is one of the most efficient cures for homesickness — and you can do it while walking from class, grabbing a quick bite to eat, or taking a study break. So, if you haven’t already, make it a point to call home today!
Caffeine Culture
Like anything in life, caffeine consumption is quite alright in moderation. Science tells us that extremes like taking caffeine pills to stay awake or chugging energy drinks are probably not going to do you any good in the long run, but a Mocha Frappuccino every once in a while might actually be uplifting.
Why It’s Important to Break Down Paywalls
Rather than treating publicly shared research as a commodity, journals should consider removing paywalls to make education more equitable. Everybody deserves the opportunity to engage with the cutting edge of human ingenuity, and removing paywalls is an important first step in that direction.
The Possible Plague of John Harvard’s Foot
Despite the cheerful backdrop, I can’t help but cringe at the millions of visitors who come to try their luck. As a Harvard student, I know what students do at the preeminent left foot as one of the college’s three most extreme traditions: urinate on it. So does touching the urinated-upon bronze foot bring luck or dread?
