Duke TIP Anthem

Duke TIP instructional staff members David Sparks and Dane Wendell performed an original song, "TIP anthem" on Friday, July 24 at the Talent Show.

Below are the lyrics and chords.

############################################## TIP Anthem #
# David and Summar Sparks, and Dane Wendell #
#############################################
# Verse 1 #
G5 D5 E5
Me and my pillow land in Atlanta,
G5 D5 C5
Get on a bus, drive to the dorm,
G5 D5 E5
Everyone else is happy to be here,
A5 C5C5D5C5D5
I'd rather be somewhere else.
I hate my roommate, he listens to screamo.
Put on my form that I don't.
For evening activity, we listen to iPods,
I could do that back at home.
Teacher is droning on about something,
He doesn't know we don't care.
I want a five, so I pay attention,
Daddy's four grand was well spent.
# Chorus #
G D
It's Duke TIP and I'm part of it,
C
And it's part of me and I'm happy to be here.
G D
We're talented and bright, lonely and uptight,
C
And I'm working a little, and playing a lot.
G
Three weeks a year,
D
I got nothing to fear,
Em
And I'm never alone,
C
'Cause this is my home,
G D G
And I can't wait to come back again.
[Muted G]
# Verse 2 #
It's a new campus, the food here is good.
It's nice to be back with my friends.
They understand me, and love a good caper,
Like nobody seems to at home.
During my breaks, I'm practicing Frisbee.
I've almost perfected the flick.
This class is better, I feel like I get it,
But I'll be okay with a four.
# Chorus #
# Solo over chorus chords #
# Verse 3 #
Look at my lanyard, you'll see I'm a veteran.
I've been through all this before.
We're good at Ultimate, but the staff is better,
I guess there's still something to learn.
I see we have talent, in spite of ourselves.
I fear I may cry at the dance.
But why be ashamed? This is my family.
I'll really miss my TA.
# Chorus #
# Chorus Outro #
[Final line modified to:]
How I wish I could come back again.
###############
# Just chords #
###############
# Verse #
G5 D5 E5 E5
G5 D5 C5 C5
G5 D5 E5 E5
A5 A5 C5C5D5D5C5
# Chorus / Solo #
G G D D C C C C
G G D D C C C C
G G D D Em Em C C
G G D D G G [G] [G]
#############
# Structure #
#############
VVV C VV C S VV C C*
* repeat as needed.

Slideshow about Duke TIP at UGA

By Hailey Gilman and Gunner Strietzel M&M staffers

American Foreign Policy present policy papers

By Madeline McCallum, Alex Gheorghe, and Natalie Gideon
M&M Staffers

As we walked in the labyrinthine hallways of the dimly-lit Horticultural and Plant Sciences building, we marveled at the fluorescent lighting and extreme lack of windows. However, the bright minds and fiery opinions of the students made up for the drab exterior.With five desks set up in front of the class and the rest of the students organized in a circle around the room, the students were ready to explain the final project of the term; their final paper on one current issue in American foreign policy.

Four students acting as a panel on their paper topics, and one TA acting as the chair of the panel explained their final papers in five minutes or less. Categories included possession of nuclear bombs and the war on terror.

After presentations, TA David Sparks, Instructor Patrick Rhamey, and class got to question their peers about their opinions. This was necessary because some very strong opinions were expressed.

John, a student, said “I do believe that American life is more important than Korean life,” as he addressed the need for military action against North Korea.

Another student on the panel disagreed heartily with this idea, saying that North Korea is like a child using alcohol as a rite of passage into adulthood. North Korea is using nuclear weapons as a rite of passage into the elite group of the most powerful countries in the world.Solutions to nuclear warfare and threats flew around the room as students proposed peace treaties, attacks and invasions, more threats, and withdrawal from Iraq.

On the next panel, one student addressed the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and noted that, “Israel blows the crap out of them [the Hamas].” In response, another student asked how the media could get the people on the side of the Palestinians.

Another panel commenced, but students’ interest in intercontinental ballistic missiles was fading fast.

Good thing we were done with reporting for the day.

Athens, GA: The Place to Be!

Article and Photos By Alicia Mayfield M&M Staffer

While being home to more than 30, 000 college students, Athens, Ga. has become home to the best music, food, and entertainment for University of Georgia students.

As the host for more than 130 Duke TIPsters plus staff, downtown Athens has provided Duke TIPsters various ways to eat, shop, and enjoy life as a “college student” while still being a kid at heart.

Athens was originally a trading settlement called ‘Cedar Shoals’ during the late 1700s. After the University of Georgia was founded, built and settled, Athens became a city on August 24, 1872. During the World War II, Athens was home to one of only five naval preflight schools in the nation. Being a college town involves having a great music scene. Some of the most famous venues were the Morton Theater and the Georgia Theatre.

The Morton Theatre was founded in 1910 by Monroe Bowers Morton, a prominent African American business owner. This theatre was home to famous performers such as Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong. Although the building was closed because of a failed inspection, the city took over and reopened the theatre in 1993 and is currently open today.

Georgia Theatre is another famous music venue located in downtown Athens. The theatre is located in an old cinema and was opened as a musical theatre in 1978. The Theatre has hosted bands such as The Police and Sea Level. Until recently the building had been opened, but a recent fire has destroyed the inside of the building so only the frame still stands.

With all of the music of Athens, there are also great restaurants to choose from. A favorite of the Duke TIPsters is “The Last Resort.” The cute, chic restaurant has amazing food and even better cheesecake and desserts that will have you wanting more and more.Originally, “The Last Resort” opened as a night club in 1966. One of the hippest music scenes back in the day, The Last Resort was a popular place for performers such as Reverend Pearly Brown, Steve Goodman, and Jimmy Buffet.After closing for a decade, current owners Melissa Clegg and Jamshad Zarneger and a bunch of their friends have revived the building, turning the stylish night club into an excellent restaurant.Some of the menu includes roasted duck pasta, chicken carbonara, fire cracker fillet, and various assortments of soups and salads. The Last Resort is known exclusively for their desserts. The many flavors of cakes and cheesecakes makes any night to The Last Resort an event to look forward to.

Another popular place for the TIPsters to go is the various shops and boutiques that are located in downtown Athens. A favorite for the Duke TIPsters is the smoothie shop, “Planet Smoothie”. It was founded in 1995 by Martin Sprock and is one of the top smoothie concepts in the world. Planet Smoothie has currently 125 locations and has been a great place to hang out for TIPsters when they get the chance to travel downtown.

Hailey Gilman, a third year TIPster commented about her favorite part of downtown“I really enjoyed the smoothie shop and I liked that downtown Athens is really contained and in one spot.”

Katie Eisel, another TIPster also said that downtown has a lot of character. It has a bunch of old stores and new stores and Katie also likes the Bulldogs that are on every corner.

“I also love the strawberry banana smoothies,” she said.

Now, other than being home for UGA students and families, Athens has a great music scene and excellent restaurants and bars to choose from. Whether you’re touring the campus or just a regular citizen there is always something to do in Athens.

Duke TIP at UGA forges its own path

By Gunner Strietzel
M&M staffer

Duke TIP is a program specializing in the education of students excelling intellectually in school and need more of a challenge then they would normally have.

The Summer Studies program is something Duke TIP offers for six weeks during the summer. There are two terms, each one being three weeks long. Duke TIP is hosted on varies college campuses all over the south-west part of the USA. There are currently 10 campuses on which Duke TIP in held, UGA being the newest addition to the Duke TIP program.

UGA, otherwise known as the University of Georgia, is located in Athens Georgia, 73 miles away from Atlanta, the capitol of Georgia. UGA is only for rising 9th, 10th, and 11th graders, so unfortunately no one going into 8th grade is welcomed at UGA for the Duke TIP program. Since UGA is a brand new campus for Duke TIP, there are still some kinks being worked out. One of the main ones is that the dorm rooms are very far away from the classrooms, and it requires a bus to get to where you need to go. Also, when more than three classes try to get on the same bus, the bus is too crowded, and some people have to get off. “It’s way too crowded, and when there’s a lot of people it’s hectic.” Duke TIP is going to try to get classrooms that are closer to the dorm room next year, so it is a lot easier to go to and from class.

Also, the only dining hall open for dinner is quite far from the dorm rooms, so Duke TIP is going to try to get Snelling, the dining hall closest to the dorm, to stay open for dinner next year. Another problem Duke TIP at UGA has is the other camps.

For term 2 the problem is the cheerleading camps. Again, since there is only one dining hall open for dinner, the cheerleaders and Duke TIP both have to use the same dining hall, making seating almost impossible to get. Recently, the people that work there have been reserving seats for Duke TIP, but for some reason the “reserved” seats have been taken by cheerleaders. Some people at Duke TIP have no problem with the cheerleaders, but that is definitely not the case for a lot of the kids.

“I feel that the cheerleaders could be a better influence of UGA,” Alicia said, “especially if they had a better attitude towards other people.” So not only does it make it hard for Duke TIP to eat because there are about 800 cheerleaders, but they are also rude to the camp.

Some people do not care for Duke Tip at UGA, like fourth years Yolanda and Lena.

But, there are advantages to UGA. Things like the food for example. Everyone agrees that the food here is much better than any of the campuses they have been to. All in all UGA has its ups and downs, but in the end the majority of the people are having fun and can’t wait to come back next year.

Order in the Court

Article and photos by Katie Eisel, Alicia Mayfield, and Hailey Gilman/
M&M Staffers

At the Midland Marauders hockey game May 7th, 2003, a fight broke out on the ice. In the heat of the moment, Tony Stromanis knocked Michael Harman’s bare head into the boards. Stromanis died at the hospital that night, but because of a previously existing polycystic kidney disease, the cause of death is unknown. This is the case that was given to the Duke TIP students in Criminal Law/Mock Trial.


The students in this class had to learn the Federal Rules of Evidence, public speaking, rules of objection, and other official jargon involved in criminal court cases. With their teacher, Dane Wendell, presiding as judge the students had to present their case and make it plausible for the jury, while also abiding by the rules of court.

Though today’s trial was simply a practice, both students and staff took it seriously. The courtroom remained silent throughout testimonies and court rules and regulations were enforced.
Although some students took the class for fun, some are taking it more seriously. Becky Dorrell, one of the trial’s witnesses as a neurologist, wishes to pursue a career in law and eventually become an attorney. When asked about her favorite part of class, she said, “…when we talk about laws.” Brittney Spratt, the prosecuting attorney, takes another angle and said, “...making objections,” and admitted her least favorite parts of class are the long lectures.

Even though tensions rise and more objections are called, the students are still TIPsters at heart. In the middle of one of the testimonies, an objection is called, only to be fought back by the defending attorney, quite loudly. The instructor, Mr. Dane Wendell, just laughed and said, “Welcome to Mock Trial.”

Philosophy Class Holds Art Gallery Exhibit

By Caroline New
M&M staffer

“Science is what you know, philosophy is what you don't know.” (Bertrand, Russell)

So how can you study such a fickle topic as this? These are the things that the Duke TIP philosophy class at the University of Georgia ponder on a daily basis. Philosophy is the study of truth, beauty, existence, knowledge, language, and reality, all erratic matters that take deep thought and deliberation. The class is taught by Summar Sparks.

“I have been so surprised by how quickly [the students] have caught on to everything,"she said. "They’ve worked really hard.” Though this is the first time UGA has hosted a Duke TIP program, the philosophy has been taught at Appalachian State University, before, where it was quite popular. The Duke TIP students had to take either the SAT or ACT and score high enough to be accepted. All of the classes here are designed so that gifted students may learn in an environment that fits their needs.

“It’s interesting how being in a class with so many smart people can really change the way you think,” said Sarah Claypoole.

During the first week, the class mainly focused on two major braches of philosophy: metaphysics and epistemology, setting the tone for the next three weeks.

“Metaphysics has become the study of the fundamental nature of all reality — what is it, why is it, and how are we can understand it. Some treat metaphysics as the study of “higher” reality or the “invisible” nature behind everything, but that isn’t true. It is, instead, the study of all of reality, visible and invisible; and what constitutes reality, natural and supernatural.” (Cline, Austin)

Metaphysics has a lot to do with religion, and can pertain to many modern day issues, making it an important theme to study.

On the other side, epistemology is more of a mental issue than a spiritual, but they bothe tie into each other.

“The study of epistemology focuses on our means for acquiring knowledge and how we can differentiate between truth and falsehood.” (Cline, Austin)

In the week after, they visited the Georgia Museum of Natural History and the archives. Here the class focused on the different influences over history on certain subjects, and how their meanings have changed since then.

Although this field trip took place in the second week, it pertained mostly to the lessons of the first week. After this study was done, they began to reach even deeper, discussing morals and ethics. This topic brought up other subjects like activism, politics, and movements, and current events were often brought up during class.

“If you think about it,” said Olivia Baker, “Everything has philosophy behind it.” One of their activities was to create a “Utopian High School.”

One student commented that, when considered, this project may turn out to be more difficult than you might imagine because there are so many factors to consider, and it is each person’s individual opinion whether or not one choice is better than another.

During the last week, the class narrowed their views to one branch of philosophy, known as aesthetics. Aesthetics is “a critical reflection on art, culture, and nature” (Bruyn, Severyn).

The visit during the second week to the Natural History Museum first opened the students’ eyes to this subject. Although this may seem like a limited matter to discuss, there are many aspects that can be considered, such as “How do you determine the value of art?” or “ Does it have a subjective or objective meaning?” For this analysis, the students created their own art and displayed it in an art show.

Each exhibit had a paragraph written by the students explaining the philosophical motivation behind it. Many of the pieces followed certain trends, such as the theme of “Beauty Is In the Eye of the Beholder,” many of which contained eyes with mirror pupils, however, a few students came up with their own unique ideas, such as Sarah Claypoole’s “Puzzling Expressions" and Olivia Baker’s “Give Peace a Chance.” Another popular drift was, “Is What We See Real or Are We Dreaming?” an idea proposed by French philosopher, René Descartes.

Devyn Post attempted to condense his ideas into a nutshell. “He basically believed that we can never be sure if anything is real. We could be awake, or we could be sleeping. Who knows if this is all a dream?”

Attending the art show were staff and administration from the camp. Each student had a chance to present their creation and explain the meaning behind it. David Younker, academic coordinator of the UGA Duke TIP campus, said, “I was surprised by the variety of approaches and influences the students used.”

Overall, the students are glad that they had the opportunity to study this concentrated subject.

Devyn Post laughed when asked how this class has affected her.

“I’ll never be able to think ‘right’ again. Nothing has face value anymore, it’s so much more than that. My thoughts will never be the same.”

RCs keep M&M students safe, entertained outside of class

Articles by M&M staffers/ Edited and compiled by Rose Fox

Alyssa
Alyssa's RC group, the “Mardi Gras Girls”, is a motley collection of girls from all over the United States from states such as Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Texas, and from all Duke TIP campuses such as Texas A&M, ASU, and Kansas as well as some first years.
Alyssa Johnson, 22 years old, was born and raised in Delco, N.C., “. . . a very, very small town,” with around 1,500 residents. A recent graduate from UNC Pembroke, Alyssa received a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, focusing on psychology. She said, “I want to be a counselor one day.” But before she gets her Master’s degree, she will begin work in Lumberton, N.C. as a 4th or 5th grade teacher.
Although Alyssa did not get into Duke TIP, she was accepted into an AG (Academically Gifted) science camp that she went to for two years. Alyssa still wanted to experience TIP, though, and since she was an RA in college, she thought being an RC would be perfect for her.
According to Alyssa, our RC group is "extremely happy all the time" which is very true. Walk down our hallway at any given time and you will hear singing, laughing, and, most often, screaming. "The tight connection, we're all like family, and RC group nights," said Hailey Gilman, when asked about her favorite part of our RC group. Both of Hailey's sentiments are shared by other members of the group, especially about RC group nights.
RC group nights are the highlight of the week for most TIPsters. It’s the one night a week where the TIPsters get to choose exactly what they want to do with their RC group. This term the Mardi Gras Girls went to Myers hall and watched television while making friendship bracelets and ate Choo Choo’s.
“My favorite group night was the mall!” said 3rd year, Natalie Gideon. We went to the mall the second week and shopped ‘til we dropped, and this week we plan on having a spa night where we do each other’s nails and order food. RC group nights are extremely fun and are spent with the people at TIP you are closest to.
Alyssa said she’ll definitely miss the girls and claimed, “This term feels like it’s flown by!” One of Alyssa’s girls, Natalie, agreed with this and noted, “The people in our RC group are the bomb!” This sentiment was shared by Katie Eisel who said, “I’ve had so much fun! I can’t believe it’s almost over!” My RC group is awesome and everyone in it is so close. Third year Hailey Gilman said, “I like the family feel to it and the fact that we didn’t even know each other and we were best friends on the first day.”

-By Natalie, Hailey, and Katie
~~~
Elizabeth
My RC group consists of 22-year old RC named Elizabeth Perkins, better known as EP, eight fourth-year girls and two third-year girls. During RC Group Nights, we choreographed dances, decorated cookies, took trips DownTown, and went roller-skating with the fourth year boys.We quickly bonded over one thing: Boys. Actually, it was the Male Staff: RC's, TA's, and the PA. "Our RC group is pretty much obsessed with all male staff . . . in a good way," Emmie, a fourth year, said.
Everyone in our RC group makes an effort to get along, even if we don't all agree on things.
We've shared laughs, secrets, inside jokes, food, and clothes; making memories that will last forever.
By Yolanda
~~~
Nicole
By far, I have the biggest RC group. There are 14 of us in all: Ashton, Elizabeth, Sara, Ellie, Natalie, Amber, Monique, Rachel, Brittany, Madelyn, Kelly, Katie, Kristen, and I. Our RC group leader is Nicole, and she is well loved! She is often affectionately called the following nicknames: Cobra, Nikki, Nick, NICKOLAH!!!, Nickasaur and Twank. She, amazingly, answers to all of them. MY RC GROUP IS LOVE!
By “Scheirer”
~~~


Carrie
My RC is Carrie Nazzaro. She is a 21 year old who is attending the University of South Carolina and is majoring in English. In addition, she is the Residential Hall Leader along with Geoff Toy. She attended Kansas University in her first term at Duke and came back for the remaining three terms. Other than all the cover information on Carrie, she is a great person with an amazing sense of humor. She also has an infectious laugh that always increases as pitch. She also enjoys talking with her group in the hall before bedtime and enjoys sharing jokes with them too. As an inside joke, Carrie and her group call themselves "The Legit 10!"

All the girls in the group (some pictured, right) have different personalities that mesh very well together. Caroline New said, "It's really great to see all the diversity in the group, and we all get along very well." All the girls are from different states such as Georgia, Mississippi, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

Along with hanging out in the hall together, RC Group night is a highlight to everybody's weeks. In recent week, we have gone downtown to get ice cream from Ben &Jerry's and coffee from Starbucks and gone to see Harry Potter 6 the day after it came out! This week, we are going to the mall to buy some cute stuff before we go home. All of these activities are very fun and they all helop everyone bond together better.

Carrie's RC Group is one of the most fun groups here. There are girls from all over who bring their personalities into a circle of friendship. When I leave TIP until next summer, I will definitely miss all of them, but I know that I will stay in touch with them due to the strong bonds that I have created over the past three weeks with all of them!
By Alex
~~~
Adam
Adam Sharpe is . . . rather difficult to describe. As a member of his RC Group, I feel I know him pretty well. It’s easy to make a biography about him. He’s probably about 5’9”, he has blue eyes, his hair kept short and he’s covered in hair and itchiness to the point that his nickname, (given to him by RC Geoff, but quickly adopted by his RC Group), is Papa Bear. He goes to the University of Georgia and is looking for a degree in broadcast journalism. He says he wants to report from inside a war zone, to get the truth out there despite the risk to himself. It’s easy to say that this is his third year as a staff member of Duke TIP,but Adam can’t really be put into words.
I should know. I tried. I asked people from my class what they thought about Adam. The general consensus seemed to be “I don’t really know him that well, but he seems really cool.” Hailey Gilman expounded to say that he’s “one of those guys that’s really loud and goofy and doesn’t care who knows it. He’s very sure of himself.” This can be made clear from the activities he leads at Duke TIP. “MAN-swers,” “High School Musical 3,” “Acoustic Sunset,” “Project Runway,” “High School Musical 2,” and “Cow Appreciation” are among the evening activities in which Adam had a hand.
Christopher Nesmith, a member of Adam’s RC Group attempted to describe him. It was kind of anticlimactic. “Adam is a character. I guess you could say, uh… He’s just Adam. Completely Random. Completely random.” I concur with Chris’s opinion of Adam. How do you describe a guy like Adam? Everyone always seems to be too far from or too close to him to really describe Adam well. That’s the thing with Adam. Either you don’t know him at all, or he’s like your big brother. Or, as in 12 special cases, your papa bear.
By Dan
~~~
Nataneal
RC groups are a part of TIP no matter which campus you go to. At UGA there are 12 RC groups with a range of 8-14 kids in each group. Each RC group has one RC that is in charge. Nataneal is the RC for the second year boys, but only a few of them. There are eight boys in Nataneal's RC group, making them one of the smallest RC groups at UGA. Nataneal is 19 years old and is currently in college. On his days off he usually sleeps and goes to work out. Ironically, Nataneal can't swim, even though he lives near the water. This is his first year working at Duke TIP and he said he enjoys it a lot. The kids in the RC group come from all over America, mainly in the south-east. One boy named Rajat comes all the way from Texas. Rajat is in the robotics class, and he loves every second of it. RC groups have RC group nights once a week, and it's usually different every week. On RC group night, the group gets to skip activities and do something else of their choice. For example, Nataneal's RC group went to downtown Athens their first night, Walmart their second night, and then to the movies to see Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince their final night. When Nataneal's group went downtown, they walked around for about an hour and a half, visiting various shops. First they went to an old indie-record shop and a couple boys bought old records from there. Then, once finished at the store, they headed over to Five-Guys and Starbucks. They sat around the tables drinking coffee, eating burgers, and having a great time. "I loved downtown," Robert said. "The shops where cool and Five Guys was great." The next week, they all decided to go to Wal-Mart in order to get clothes for the upcoming dance. They were there for about 45 minutes before they went to Zaxby's for a late night snack at 10 o'clock. The third and final night the boys decided to go see the 6th Harry Potter movie, Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. There also happened to be two other RC groups at the theater, so Nataneal's RC group joined up with them. Although some thought the movie was great, most of them disagreed, saying it was nothing like they thought it would be.
By Gunner
~~~
Tessa
“Get it ladies! Those are my girls!” Tessa White, a first year RC, yelled from the audience as her RC group danced to “Redneck Woman.” Even though she was pretending to be their stage mom, Momma T is more like a big sister to us than anything.
Tessa was born in Spain and speaks fluent Spanish, which you wouldn’t guess based on her long blonde hair and blue eyes. She attends Notre Dame and is majoring in Political Science/History. She’s a very chill person that takes a very enthusiastic approach to her duties as an RC and is very protective of her girls, which she calls Tessa’s Belles.
Dance parties in the hall, meetings in Theo’s room, advice sessions, and running away from creepers are not only half of the things we’ve been through together. Some of our RC group nights include eating delicious cheesecake at the Last Resort, going shopping in downtown Athens, and going to see Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Also, we ordered food and hung out with Francisco’s group, but that soon turned into a gaggle of girls sitting in a circle, all busting out in laughter, while the boys left them to their Cokes and Choo-Choo’s.“Our group is very interesting and we have a lot of inside jokes,” Sabrina Marasa, one of the RC group members, said. When asked what words describes our RC group, Tessa replied with “mommalicious.” This is probably referring to the 99 cent babies that all of the girls bought at the Dollar Store to truly become “redneck women.”
Whether we’re singing about honky-tonks while walking past the bars in Athens, screaming in the movie theaters, or getting answers about our new "father," Tessa's RC group will always stand out in a crowd.
By Madeline
~~~
Denisse
The RC group known as the “groovy ladies” has a total of 11 members, the majority of whom are third-years. Denisse, the RC of the hall, conducts nightly meetings and executes behind-the-scenes work. Born in Puerto Rico, Denisse is an International Business major at the University of Georgia. She is a first-year RC and describes the experience as “really great,” although she admits that “it’s a lot more work than I expected.” Despite this, Denisse would like to return next year as an RC. The members of the “groovy ladies” are all content with their hall mates. Cassidy Bingham, a fourth-year from Florida, explained, “It’s not like we’re all soul mates, but our personalities mesh together very well.” Many of the girls in the group like the same musical bands, including the rare “indie” Mypace group Never Shout Never. Olivia A., a third year, agreed. “I love it,” she said, noting that she has a lot in common with most of the girls. “And even if we don’t, it’s fun to talk about opposing opinions.” Like many other RC groups, the “groovy ladies” have their own traditions, jokes, and quirks. Most of the girls periodically burst into song while walking, the tune of which changes between established recordings and custom-made songs dedicated to various RCs on the UGA campus. For TIP’s scavenger hunt, the girls created the “velociraptor” dance, which impressed RCs Adam and Nicole and was later part of the Blue Team’s cheer for TIP’s Brek-Fest. In the short amount of time given in a term, the “groovy ladies” RC group has developed a strong friendship which will no doubt last beyond the boundaries of the UGA campus.
By Rose
~~~

From ASU to UGA a tough adjustment for some TIPsters

By Lena Ray
M&M staffer

This summer, the Duke TIP program opened up a new summer studies site at the University of Georgia. They implemented a new system that separates the oldest and the youngest students and has moved many old students from their original campus.

According to their website, “Duke TIP is committed to serving this unique group of students by providing services and programs beyond what is offered in the classroom.” The Duke TIP summer studies program offers five sites for eighth through tenth graders and four sites for seventh and eighth graders.

Up until 2009, the TIP summer studies program offered a welcoming environment for seventh through tenth graders at seven different college campuses from North Carolina to Texas. In October 2008, many students received a letter saying that the campus they regularly attended was closed to ninth and tenth graders (third and fourth year TIPsters).

“I almost cried. Oh my god it was ridiculous,” said Mary Scheirer, a third year at the University of Georgia site that had attended Appalachian State University for her first two years at TIP.

Dan Weitzman, a fourth year this year at UGA said, “I cried. I actually cried.” It is still a very sensitive subject for the many ASU TIPsters who came to UGA.
The staff at the main duke TIP offices in Durham, N.C., knew that this decision would be an emotional decision for the students who had to move campuses, but they felt that the decision was best for all of the students.

Brian Cooper, the man in charge of informing the TIPsters that they would attend a new campus, came to visit UGA and see the students’ reaction to their new campus. The visit was full of angry or crying TIPsters, and many explanations from Brian.

The main offices in Durham had been receiving letters and phone calls from concerned parents. Many parents of first years, rising eighth graders, were worried that their children would be interacting with 10th graders and would attend the same classes as the 10th graders.

Cooper also said that by separating the age groups, Duke TIP had created a better experience for both the third and fourth years, and the first years. By separating them, classes could be geared towards specific age groups and would be more suited for a certain age group.

Elizabeth Perkins, a residential counselor at UGA this year, said that at ASU she had noticed fourth years bullying several first years.

When asked how the fourth years affected TIPsters when they were first years, all of them had good experiences with the fourth years. Dan Weitzman, a fourth year and former ASU TIPsters said, “They treated me like a little brother.” He said that fourth years could set examples for the first years and it was an endless cycle. “It’s fantastic.”

“They were always nice. They were someone to look up to,” said Mary Scheirer.

Yolanda Douglas, another fourth year from ASU said that the fourth years inspired her to return to TIP because she saw the goal that she was working towards. “Without first years, our speeches at the end of the term are going to be pointless,” said Douglas, because the fourth years will be talking to second years, many of whom are already returning TIPsters.

Even now, the fourth years have RCs who were fourth years when they were first years. It is more welcoming to recognize faces, sometimes even old friends, on the residential staff when you show up for your fourth year.

Sarah Harper, a fourth year at ASU last year, said, “I made really good friends with a few first years. With the first and second years present I met more people that thought like me. THAT is what TIP is about.” She promised to be an RC when those friends are fourth years.

While some parents do not want their children interacting with older students, other parents feel that it is a good experience for their children. The residential life coordinator at UGA this year told the TIPsters, “You’re young adults and we should give you the right and privilege to interact with any friends as much as possible.”

Classes with both fourth years and first years provide a more challenging experience for the first years, and no TIPster interviewed had problems with fourth years or their classes.

When asked why the old students were sent to a new campus instead of the new students, Cooper had several reasons to back up the decision from Durham.

At ASU, there is practically no walking, and Cooper said that it was a good campus for the first years because RCs could keep track of them easily. At UGA the students have to ride buses to their classes and walk much farther to dinner than at ASU.

The University of Kansas was also closed to third and fourth years, but according to a TIPster from KU, the walking distances at UGA are nothing compared to KU. “KU was huge. It was, like, hills and you had to go through, like, other buildings and stuff to get to where you wanted to go,” said third year Hailey Gilman.

Another problem with ASU was discipline. Onsite director Alex Pagnani said, “What we heard was basically that ASU last year was complete craziness, that really most of the rules got thrown out the window.”

None of the former ASU students said that they remembered these behavioral problems. In fact, one fourth year said that the rules and dorms at ASU last year were much more restrictive than in past years.

Former ASU students have only one complaint about ASU: the food. “TIP at ASU was perfect in its imperfections,” said Sarah Harper. On the other hand, there is a long list of complaints about the University of Georgia.

“UGA doesn’t feel like home like the way ASU did,” said a third year at UGA. ASU “feels like a second home.” These students are not prepared to say goodbye to Boone, N.C.

Lena Ray is a 4th year TIPster from Austin, Texas.

Video of Types of Frisbee Throws

Advice, throws and article by Lena Ray; Video shot by Ellie Solomon/ M&M staffers



Duke TIPster and M&M staffer Lena Ray demonstrates types of frisbee throws. Video of the first throw is embedded below. Follow the links in the description to see video of the other types of throws.


You can try to skip the frisbee with a flick. This is not the best example, and some people can skip the disc much farther than this, but it’s the same basic idea. With enough practice you can get the right angle and enough power to skip the disc off the ground with a flick or a backhand.

Frisbee throws 5, 6, and 7:
Trying to skip the frisbee with a backhand. This is not the best example, and some people can skip the disc much farther than this, but it’s the same basic idea. With enough practice you can get the right angle and enough power to skip the disc off the ground with a flick or a backhand.

Frisbee throw 4:
This throw can get a lot of distance if you do it properly. There’s also a way to throw it very similar to that from behind your back, but it’s not always worth the effort to learn how to throw it like that. Different people throw it differntly, so you have to find a way that works for you.

Frisbee throw 3:
The hammer is an overhead throw that can be used to pull the disc, if you can get enough distance, or to go over someone’s head. The hammer requires a lot of power to get it far, but it can be a really useful throw.

Fribee throw 2:
The flick/forehand can be useful in a lot of cases. Some people can get a lot more distance with this than with a backhand, it just depends. The most important part is to keep the disc flat, otherwise this throw won’t be very useful.

Genetics class: Apoptosis, ribonucleic acid, and tumor suppressors? We are in way over our heads.

By Ellie Solomon, Madeline McCallum, and Natalie Gideon
M&M staffers

As we walked up the nine flights of stairs to the genetics classroom in the journalism building at UGA, we were not prepared for the fiery, heated, and intense debate they had in store for us.

Students sit in a small, somewhat dingy, florescent lighted classroom with their red desks placed around the room in a circle facing the board. Nametags are taped to the front of student’s desks as they are filled and students patiently await the beginning of class. As usual, the students decide to question a classmate, and throw queries at her faster than she can respond. Questions included were what’s your favorite herb, does she like eyeliner, how many places she had moved and which was her favorite.

Typically, the genetics class involves a mix of lectures and labs where students get to work hands-on with the knowledge they receive during note taking. According to Elizabeth Rush, a student in genetics, “usually it’s lectures.”

Today’s class begins with a “gene of the day”, as TA Rachel Brady draws complicated lists of the traits and students copy the board feverishly.

“This is my favorite gene,” repeats instructor Melissa Mahoney. Today, however; students’ seats are grouped on two opposite sides of the room debating the question; should genes be patented?

The debate gets heated after the opening statements when a student from the affirmative side, Everett Hyatt, makes a case for gene patenting if a gene can be used as a medicine. The opposing team question the ownership of one’s genes as comments fly back and forth about morals, profits, and monopolies.

When recess is called immediately before the closing statements, the air is so thick with tension, that one of the teams elects to leave the room. Another member of the affirmative team, MC Martin, said “I want to take them out” and “I want to take my pencil and poke someone in the eye.”

‘This is, like, the most exciting day so far,” a student, Trisha Aurora said. They assure us during break that we came on the best day possible.

“The labs are pretty fun,” said Aurea Li, “we have a pretty good balance of notes and labs.”

Melissa Mahoney, the teacher, and Rachel Brady, the TA, both agree that the students are the best part of teaching the class. “They have a lot of curiosity and they ask a lot of good questions,” said Melissa.

As we listened to the biological jargon bandied casually about across the room, we realized that what made the genetics class, the genetics class, was the interest shown by the students. The vigor with which they debated, and the interest shown in their discussions; as well as the companionship between classmates during break, makes technical terms seem almost interesting to a complete outsider.

Musical Slideshow about TIP at UGA

Article, Video and Photos by Yolanda Douglas and Christopher Nesmith

M&M staffers

Anticipation filled the air Wednesday as the Duke TIP Robotics class prepared themselves -- and their robots -- for their "sumo-bot war" that would take place. After days of building and programming robots teams of two completed some final adjustments adding characteristics, such as torque, to give their robots as much of a competitive edge as possible when it came time to battle.

In the video two teams gave a preliminary battle before the actual competition. In the video, Doran and Ryan’s robot faced off against the robot made by Carson and Hal. At first contact, it seemed as if the battle was a stalemate, however after a few seconds other factors of the robot’s features like torque and specialized programming began to surface as Doran and Ryan’s robot began to take the advantage. Carson and Hal’s robot began to face technical difficulties as one of its wheels began to come loose. After a minute or so, the battle was called to an end to save battery power for the real “war” that would commence later in the day.

The Robotics class, taught by Instructor Travis Prochaska and TA Ben Bradshaw, were diligently working to finish their "sumo-bots" before the 2 p.m. competition. The air was mixed with tension and confidence. During interviews, most of the two people teams boasted about how their robot would win the Robot War; however, some of the teams were unsure. Two teams who had finished early demonstrated how the challenge would work. A circle is drawn on the floor, the robots are placed in the center and whichever robot is pushed out of the circle first, wins: a pretty simple concept."Basically, the robot is stupid without the programmer," said Stefan, a fourth year who hopes to become a computer programmer or an engineer. "You build the robot, plug it up to the computer and tell it what to do."

His partner, Austin Terry, also stated that he would like to work with computer and robots when he chooses a profession.

What goes in to making a robot? "A lot of love," Stefan laughed.

One would think that building a robot would require a large amount of math, but according to classmate Carson Wolf, "It doesn't take too much. Not as much as I thought it would."

Also, there was an odd twist. Only one girl chose to take Robotics.

“Why did you decide to take this course?” an M&M reporter asked, truly intrigued.“Well it seemed to be the most interesting course at the time,” she said. She picked the course because she hopes to be an engineer when she gets older. When asked about being the only girl in the class, she responded, “It was weird at first because I didn’t know anyone, but now it’s cool,” she said.

Later in the day, M&M reporters found out the results of the competition from Ross Yanuck. Carson and Hal’s robot came in first place, Doran and Ryan came in second and Kris and Ross’s robot took third.

The rest of the robots suffered from technical malfunctions in their programming.

“Basically, the nerdiest people in the class won,” Ross said. Ross also said he hopes to work more in robotics for a profession, and his TIP experience really opened his eyes.

“Maybe one day there will be a world with only robots,” he laughed.

Only time can tell.

Profile of RLC Kevin Cane

Article written by M&M staffers/ compiled and edited by Rose Fox/ photos by Chris Nesmith

Kevin Cane sat in front of Duke TIP Media and Message students on Thursday answering their questions about his life as the RLC, or Residential Life Coordinator.
Being an RLC, one must know all of the Duke TIP policies fluently; however, real-life situations call for exceptions to rules and reaching that balance is what Cane finds difficult. At Duke TIP, students have particular times when they can use their cell phones. On one occasion, a student was repeatedly violating cell phone policy and Cane had to confiscate her cell phone until the end of the term. The student explained that she had a very sick relative back at home felt obligated to call and check in with her family often. This is a prime example of the balance between policy and real-life situations that Cane spoke about. “To watch the interplay of policy and emotion is very hard to watch,” Cane said. Instead of breaking policy and/or going against his human instinct, Cane found an alternative method of solving the problem. He contacted the Duke TIP main office in Durham, N.C. and together they came up with a new “check-out policy.”
In the new policy, if a student had too many cell phone violations, instead of confiscating it until the end of the term, the main office kept the student’s cell phone and the student could check it out during cell phone hours. “If we have your phone in the office we know where it is but the individual still has access to it,” he said.
Beyond his responsibilities as RLC, Cane has a colorful personal life. “You should definitely know that I’m obsessed with football,” he joked. During the regular season, Cane spends nearly all of his time on Saturdays watching different college football games around the country. Cane is a member of many social groups and clubs around his college as well. He is heavily involved in his Student Union and in the UGA Student Personnel Association (UGASPA).
Cane cited travel as one of his favorite hobbies and a great love in his life. He said he has been to and lived in locations such as Ireland and Manchester in the U.K. but has become a predominately domestic traveler of late, mostly because of the economy. Washington D.C. and New York City are among Cane’s favorite domestic locations.
Although he travels, Cane’s home is set at UGA. “I would be delighted,” Cane said when asked about returning to his position with TIP next year, “to have the opportunity to work here.” Cane went on to say that he would be “more than thrilled” at the prospect of continued TIP work.
Cane gets really into his job, and he loves being involved and informed. “I really, really enjoy spending time with the students,” Cane said, “I will definitely assist as much as possible.” Cane likes to make sure that everyone has a positive experience, and that everyone will be looking forward to coming back all year.
Cane is a big kid at heart and is willing to admit it. Cane’s youthful attitude will help him succeed and help him be where he wants to be. “I want to work every day on a college campus and never really grow up,” he said. He’ll have a lot of support from his family from Duke TIP.

Profile of Counselor Theary Tiep

Article compilation by M&M staffers/ Photos by Gunner Strietzel and Ellie Solomon

Imagine fleeing your country at only 10 months old so you could live to see another day. Imagine several of your family members dying on the way out. Imagine your grandfather giving you sleeping pills so you wouldn’t cry and alert the guards of the concentration camp you were forced to live in.

Theary Tiep’s family was one of the millions forced out of their house in the Cambodian capital city of Phnom Penh and forced to live in rural work camps. If they had refused they would have been killed.

“Basically, they knocked on the door and said ‘You have one hour to evacuate. Take what you can carry,’” said Tiep. “My mom packed rice and food because she didn’t know if they’d be coming back.”

Born in Cambodia, August 19th, 1979, Tiep’s family was one of the ones affected by the brutal rule of the Khmer Rouge, which enforced a policy of massive genocide claiming the lives of more than 2 million Cambodians. They had to sneak out of the country at night, losing family members as they went, and carrying her uncle, who couldn’t walk due to cerebral palsy, on a stretcher.

“I’m very fortunate, I’m very lucky to be alive here. It’s funny because I always tell myself: Everyone has good days, and sometimes you have really bad days, but I always put that into perspective. I could never really have a bad day, because I have a day.”

When her family finally escaped Cambodia they moved to the United States. Tiep grew up in Long Beach, Calif. where her parents opened up a sandwich shop.

Tiep became a U.S. citizen when she was 14, and although she grew up in a bad neighborhood, she believes that it helped shape the person that she is today.

“I grew up in a pretty rough area,” Tiep said.

In her neighborhood they had several race riots through different gangs. Her high school was pretty scary, too.

"In my junior year the National Guard had to come on campus with full gear; there were helicopters everywhere," Tiep said. "We were just a stone's throw away from Compton. Sometimes sports teams would forfeit because they didn’t want to come and play at our school,” Tiep said.

Tiep had a lot of after school activities. “I played tennis for four years, soccer, and did ballet.”

There was also an award winning magazine on campus that Tiep wrote for. She was very interested in journalism then. Tiep just graduated in May from the University of Southern California with a Master’s Degree in education.

While she was in college she interned for 40 hours a week at the local Elementary school and was a full-time student all at once. At USC Tiep’s class started a program called “SCOT” which stands for School Counselors of Tomorrow, and through this program Tiep found Duke TIP.

Duke TIP is a program where academically gifted students from the south-eastern part of the United States go to a college campus for three weeks and take a college course. At every campus there is a psychological counselor in case the students are having a problem and need to talk to someone.Tiep heard of this and wanted to try and get a position but forgot about the program in the midst of her busy schedule.

“Life happened,” she said. “I was like ‘Oh no! Duke TIP!’” Tiep called Duke TIP and asked if there were any positions left, and there was one. She took the counseling job at the Duke TIP site at the University of Georgia.

“I actually have the best job,” Tiep said. “I get to, kind of, have my hand in every cookie jar.”

Tiep’s job description is to hang out with the students, residential counselors (RC’s), and the staff, such as instructors, teacher’s assistants, and the administrative staff. She has to be on call every hour of the day so she gets two days off during the week instead of just one like the other staff members.

“The weirdest time I talked to somebody was two in the morning,” Tiep said, “but it’s okay because I’m a night owl anyway!”

Tiep remains optimistic even though her life has been full of difficulties. It takes a strong person to put up with everything she has and still have a huge, gleaming smile on their face. Tiep is a special kind of person who sees the glass half-full and tries to live each day to the fullest.

“Your experiences make you who you are.”

_40_

You can follow some "tweets" from Theary's press conference with the Media and Message class on @DukeTIPDawgs on Twitter. Hashtag #Theary.

Game Theory more than just fun and games although there is that too!

Article, Photos and Video by Gunner Strietzel and Dan Weitzman/ M&M Staffers

Game Theory is one of the eight classes offered at Duke TIP at UGA Term 2.

It is a class about strategy, math, and how to have fun and win. Although it may seem like all fun and games, that isn’t entirely true. They also focus a lot on mathematics. They even took the Yale Economics final test, although most of the class failed.

“I think it’s a good mix,” Chloè said, speaking about the class. "We play games and at the same time we learn and work our minds," she explained.

The Game Theory class often plays popular games such as Blokus and Yahtzee, but they also made their own board games by either coming up with entirely new ideas, or mixing a few games together.

There are 12 people in the Game Theory class, and so they created groups of four, meaning three different games where to be made. The kids were given poster boards and were told to create a game on the board.

The only rules where that they couldn’t duplicate another game, and that the game must have a dominant strategy, other than that they were free to do anything they wanted. They had a couple of nights to think up an idea and then had to present it during class.First up was Chloè’s group. This group also included Ruthie, Maddy, and Sam. They created a game called Color Wars, a game in which you try to rack up points by invading other territories with your paper clips.

The way the game works is each color starts in its color’s corner. From there you create chains by adding paper clips in order to get into the other people’s territories.If you land on a surprise square, you get a card. You can’t show the card to anyone unless it is something that involves an immediate action. If it has to do with points you simply keep the card with you, face down. Different areas have different points, and you count the number of paper clips you have in those areas, and that’s how you get points. But, you only get points for the paper clips that are in other people’s territories, so you want to get to other people’s territories as fast as you can, using minimal pieces as possible.

The next group included Michael, Alyx, Mary, and Crystan. They created a game based off of the popular game, Risk. Their game is called The Island, and the way you win is by concurring all the countries within the island. Or, the other way to win is by everyone agreeing the game is over, and the person with the most amount of countries wins.

You start off on one of four countries, and make you way towards the island, once there you take over the country by simply placing your pieces on the country, and you can battle with other people by getting three of your pieces on their country then rolling a die, the one with the highest number wins. You also have resource cards, and you win or lose them along the way. If you lose all your resource cards, or if you run out of pieces, you automatically lose the game. So you have to be careful when moving.

Last was Matt, Sarah, Monique, and Layla’s game, Sajo!. In Sajo! the goal is to fill up your color’s square. There are two suites of cards, diamonds and clubs. Your partner sits across from you and you play your cards. Depending on what you play depends on how many pieces you can lay down in your square. If you both play diamonds, you each place eight. If you play a diamond and your partner plays a club, you only get to put down 4 pieces, while your partner gets to place down 12. So you can either work with your partner to beat out the other team, or you can try to cause your partner to lose, allowing yourself to win.

Game Theory is a great class for having fun while also learning about different strategies to use, different mathematical equations, and what to do in certain situations. Overall, the kids love the class and would highly suggest people to take it.

Outnumbered Duke TIP staff take out 4th year team in dodgeball

Several dodgeball games took place Tuesday afternoon at Duke TIP at UGA. The most notable match was between staff members and 4th year TIPsters. Only 6 staff members participated against about 18 4th year students. Outnumbered 3 to 1, the small but mighty staff team came up triumphant against the 4th year TIPsters team. Highlights from the game are below:

Term 2 TIPsters have a "Brekfest" of Champions

Article By Hailey Gilman/Photos by Ellie Solomon

M&M staffers

Where could you find a game of “rock-tree-bridge”, some enthusiastic teenage mutant ninja turtles, and epic jello snarfling, all in the same place?

At the Duke TIP Brek-Fest, of course!

A TIP-wide tradition, the “fest” consisted of the TIP students, split up into four teams, (blue, red, yellow, and green) competing in several events, trying to win the title of Brek-Fest Champions. BREK stands for "Basically Really Exciting 'K." Brekfest took place on Saturday, July 18th.

The fest began with an introduction from each team. The teams performed a cheer or a song to spread their spirit and were then awarded cheer contest points. We heard first from the energetic Lightning Zebras, a team decked out in multiple shades of yellow. Though it had rhyming lyrics, the cheer lacked the pep or the stamina of a true Brek-Fest champion team. The red team came next, the Infernos, singing a Brek-Fest themed version of the classic Chicago song, “He Had It Coming.” Third was the blue team, basically yelling, “We’re going to do the wave,” over and over again. Although they lacked originality, the Bluceraptors made up for it in spirit.

Finally, the green team, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, assumed their positions, and the real cheering was on. After closing their introduction with rousing flips, cartwheels, and a great display of choreography, the green team received first place for the cheer contest. Energized and full of pep, the TIPsters were ready to begin the competition! First up, was a camp-wide event, Rock-Tree-Bridge.

A classic fest event, Rock-Tree-Bridge consists of teams racing to create an assembly line of body positions, trying to cross the finish line. After a few scrapes, bruises, and the knowledge that you were going to be sore in the morning, the Lightning Zebras crossed the finish line first.

The next events took place at some of the same times, with routine water breaks throughout, keeping the TIPsters healthily hydrated. Jello snarfling, a TIP favorite, went to the Lightning Zebras as did the sponge pass.

The yellow team also won cheesy poof face, a timed event in which one player’s face is covered in shaving cream and cheesy poofs are thrown at their face in hopes of sticking. The team with the most stuck to their faces wins.

The water balloon toss was a triumph for the green team. Yellow and blue were out quickly, with remnants of water balloons littering the grass. Down to red and green, one short toss by a member of the red team took down their chance of victory. The green team cheered!

Yellow’s top competitor, the Bluceraptors, won first place in basketball and the mystery water relay, a path walked by blindfolded TIPsters, while the staff threw water balloons at them.

Trivia was a close call. Originally in the lead was the green team, but then the yellow and blue teams came out of nowhere, challenging the green team for first. It all came down to the final trivia question, on which teams could wager their points.

Residential counselor, Carrie, read the question slowly, watching each team’s reaction, “Besides James and John, what is the next most popular president’s name?” The room grew quiet and tense, each team thinking through all the options. The yellow team, in the lead, seemed troubled, having to choose between two names. Finally, after the answers were turned in, it became clear that there was an obvious winner. Carrie read through each team’s answers, and then announced proudly, “The correct answer is William!”

The blue team erupted in screams and cheering, having won another event. After the final events, TIPsters gathered on the steps of Rutherford Hall, eagerly awaiting the results of the fest.

Residential counselor Geoff stepped forward, holding an important looking piece of paper in his hands. TIPsters could feel the air get tense as he began to read the results. Fourth place went to the Infernos and third went to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. It all came down to this.

With a deep breath he announced that first place went to the Bluceraptors, with the Lightning Zebras receiving second place. The blue team cheered, the yellow team congratulated them, and the TIPsters rose from the steps, eager for a long, cool shower.

Profile of On-site Director Alex Pagnani

Article compilation by M&M staffers/ Photo by Mary Scheirer

Alex Pagnani, contrary to popular belief, was never a Navy SEAL. He laughed as he told the Media and Message students during their interview, and explained how that was just a well-executed joke with the camp staff.
Pagnani, the On-Site Director (OSD) of Duke TIP at the University of Georgia, is currently working on his PhD in Gifted Education. He loves his job here at Duke TIP, since it builds on the topic he studies at UGA.
Before being in charge, Pagnani taught the courses “Human Intelligence” and “Intro to Psychology.” Pagnani was also the mind behind the popular “The Brain, Intelligence, and Creativity” class, which he was scheduled to teach.
There are definitely some drawbacks to being the camp’s OSD, he said. Whenever anything happens, he is always the one to call the parents, which can be stressful. “A lot of my time gets spent problem-solving instead of dealing with classes and residential activities,” Pagnani said. Last term was filled with issues, since it was the first ever Duke TIP camp at UGA. There was a widespread “TIP-plague,” as Pagnani called it, where around 70 students were sent to the doctor in the first two weeks. “Every time I would step out the door, my phone would go off,” he said.
Pagnani was born in 1980 in Ocean City, N.J., located on a little island in southern New Jersey. Pagnani said, “Ocean City was a ghost town two-thirds of the year.” He said this was because during the Summer months it would be packed with people coming to the beach, but after Labor Day the crowd would die out and 90 percent of the houses would be empty and the windows were boarded.
After high school, he attended the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, living in South Bend for six years. He considered Law for two years, but soon changed his mind, switching to major in gifted education.
One year after finals at Notre Dame, Pagnani decided to take a road trip around the United States. He and his grandfather had planned it, but Pagnani went alone since his grandfather had passed. Pagnani said that he came back with $100 in his bank account, but that it was worth it.
He said he was very fortunate to be able to travel as much as he has. Pagnani also studied abroad for a year in Japan. When people ask him to say something in Japanese, he likes to tell them that he is “a big blue eggplant.”
Although Pagnani’s determined and supportive personality lends itself to many professions, the on-site director believes he has found his right fit. Pagnani intends to continue working at TIP and hopes to continue his research on “residential gifted programs.”
Gifted* students, especially gifted under-achievers, are Pagnani’s main interest. After being placed in his school’s gifted program because he could read at an early age, Pagnani has worked with gifted students for years and is considering writing his dissertation on gifted college students.
Even though the job as OSD for Duke TIP at UGA is a strenuous one, Alex Pagnani seems to take it with stride. With a chuckle and a smile, Pagnani seems to have everything under control.

Profile of Academic Coordinator David Younker

Article by M&M staffers/ Photos by Dan Weitzman

David Younker, the 25-year-old academic coordinator for DukeTIP at the University of Georgia, eagerly awaited the Monday press conference with the Media and Message class to begin.

“I’m looking forward to this,” he said. Finally, the recorder was switched on and the questions began.

“I just want to say, you know, that I’m here because I want to be here,” said Younker.

As academic coordinator, Younker’s primary job is to provide students and teachers with what they need. Younker, who has a self-professed “‘delegatory’ style of leadership,” oversees 17 people, visits classes, attends daily staff meetings and talks with students.

When asked about his opinion on students from UGA Terms I and II, Younker, who was the Criminal Law and Mock Trial instructor for the first term, said he believes there were more “characters” in his first term, but attributed this to Term II students being tired by the end of summer.

As a teacher for TIP, Younker could still name all 18 of his former students by first and last name. Now as the Academic Coordinator, Younker claims to know all students “by face.”

Younker got his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science in May 2005 from UGA, and three days later, started taking classes for his Master’s Degree in Social Science Education. Shortly after obtaining that degree, he started on his law degree and graduated from UGA School of Law this past May.

“If I could ever give you a suggestion,” he said, “do not give yourself three and four day breaks between degrees. It’s a bad idea.”

Younker described law school as an “academic boot camp.” However, he worked his way through the challenges and is now studying for the Georgia State Bar exam, which he will take a week from tomorrow.

“There is just something about law that is just a common thread in society. The ability to help people, the ability for justice in society as much as we can make it a just system on Earth, which has limitations, there’s just something appealing to that,” he said.

In terms of what kind of law he wants to practice, Younker said, “I can’t be picky right now,” because the economy is suffering. He found a job application for DukeTIP through the law school’s ListServ, which is a commercial mailing list management system.

He applied and got the job to be a teacher for the Criminal Law and Mock Trial class first term.

After the first term was over, he had a week off before receiving a call from Durham, N.C., where Duke TIP is headquartered.

“They had an opening for an academic coordinator for a term that started in two days,” he said. “So that’s why I’m in this job now.”

However, he admitted that he liked teaching for TIP better than his new administrative position, because he was able to become closer with his students. But he does enjoy the flexibility of being the academic coordinator. “Functionality, for me getting ready for the Bar, this term was better than last term.”

There are many things that are important to Younker, and one of the biggest things is his faith.

“There are always people who give faith a bad name and call it religion,” he said. “Every single person deserves to be heard, deserves to have influence, and deserves to be accepted in a group.”

David describes his faith as a Christian as “the essence to who I am.”

Younker knows he’s not perfect, but he has clear views of who he wants to be.

“I would love for someone to tell me that I was a man with integrity and when I spoke it carried weight,” he said.

David Younker may sound like an ordinary man, but he definitely knows where’s he going and where he’s been.

Dance, dance

By Yolanda Douglas
M&M staffer

Dances are part of the weekend tradition at all of the TIP campuses. This year at the new UGA campus that tradition was continued. TIPsters, boys and girls, are always excited about the up and coming dances on the weekend. They see it as a way to relax from the busy weekly class schedule.
It isn’t unusual for the dances to be themed; previous themes include: “Decade Dance”, “Black and White Formal”, “Luau” and “A Night under the Stars”. This year the themes chosen were “Hoedown Throw Down”, “Pirates vs. Ninja” and for the final dance to take place at the Tate Center, “TIP Prom”.
Usually students don’t ask others to the dance because everyone dances with each other; however, many thought since the theme was dubbed “prom”, it was necessary to have a date. On the other hand, some still agree that having a date is pointless.
“I don’t believe in having ‘dates’ for TIP dances because everyone dances with everyone. If you go with one person, you’re stuck with them the whole night, and I want to have fun,” said Lena Ray, a fourth year.
Some students don’t like the fact these dances are themed because they feel they are unprepared. During a press conference with RLC, Kevin Cane, a Media and Message student asked why newsletters aren’t sent out before students come to TIP, so they can prepare costumes for the dances. Kevin responded, “We didn’t have time. Students arrived the day after the Fourth of July holiday.”
Other students like the spontaneity. “I think they announced the themes too early this year. It takes away from the surprise,” a fourth year, Dan Weitzman said.
There are three songs played at every dance that are also TIP tradition: “Save Tonight”, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”, and “American Pie”. During these songs, TIPsters gather in a circle and wrap their arms around each other, which would show any onlooker how close TIP people are.
Since tonight is the last dance, when these songs are played, it will signify an end: the end of the last dance, the ending of a term, and the end of TIP for the fourth years.

Yolanda Douglas is a 4th year TIPster from Athens, Alabama.