Posts in Opinion
Typing vs Hand Notes

As technology becomes an integral part of education, many students are left with the decision of how to balance technology with traditional methods of studying. One of these is choosing to take notes by typing on a laptop/tablet, or to hand write the notes on paper. There can be arguments made for both; however, studies have shown that it may be best to use good old pen and paper.

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The Uninformed Generation

As a 21-year-old freelance journalist, I mostly cover local political developments. Whether I am attending the latest meeting of the Santa Monica City Council, or covering our very own Associated Student board, I am frequently struck both by how important the issues that appear in front of these bodies are, and by the alarming lack of public participation and oversight present at their deliberations.

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How Much “Freedom” is in our Freedom of Speech?

Twenty-year-old Michelle Carter was infamously convicted in Massachusetts of involuntary manslaughter for sending a series of text messages that encouraged her boyfriend to commit suicide. Carter was convicted in June of 2017 in the case Commonwealth vs. Carter. While the morality of her actions can be discussed, the question is, what legal actions can be taken for what you speak or write?

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Letter to the Editor: Former A.S. Director Responds to Op-Ed Criticizing Lack of Guidance for A.S. Board

This is a response to Francisco Munoz’s Op-ed, “Associated Students? More like Isolated Students.”

As a preface, let me make it clear that I thought it was a well-written and thoughtful article, but I feel compelled to respond to (and elaborate on) a couple of points that I find to be particularly important. For the sake of clear organization, I will copy and paste three central paragraphs from Mr. Munoz’s article before I write my response to them. Let us examine the following passage:

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Letter to the Editor: Associated Students? More Like Isolated Students

“Proud to be?… “ is a common saying when you are surrounded by Santa Monica College’s school spirit. We hear things like number one in transfer to UC’s, a world class education and endless opportunities. A vibrant global community that attracts over 3,000 international students from more than 110 countries. With modern buildings, SMC almost seems to be a Utopian learning environment.

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Black Panther Scratches Out Competition

The highly anticipated film of the year is finally here. When Captain America: Civil War premiered on May 6, 2016 revealing a Black Panther addition to the Marvel series, moviegoers anxiously awaited for its release on Feb. 16, 2018, and it has lived up to the hype. From the costumes, to the massive sets, the film is quite a visual experience.

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“The 15:17 to Paris”: An Emotionless Trainwreck

Clint Eastwood has taken a step back with his new feature film, “The 15:17 to Paris.” The director who often proves his patriotism through his movies depicting American heroes -- whether they be cowboys in the desert or soldiers in battle-- tried to step outside of the box and failed miserably. The documentary style movie is unique because the three main characters, Alek Skarlatos, Spencer Stone, and Anthony Sadler, are played by themselves; however, that was Eastwood's biggest mistake

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