Archiving Vietnam Veterans’ Stories: A Thesis Exhibition

Starting this Thursday, Dec. 1, studio art major Emma Spencer’s ’23E thesis show, “So, What’s a Nice Girl Like You Doing In A Place Like This?” will be available for viewing. Spencer’s project, consisting of both photography and film, catalogues the stories of female Vietnam War veterans.

Context, Creation, Come Up: Kiiren Jackson ’24

In this edition of 3 C’s, Kobe Thompson ’24 sits down with rapper Kiiren Jackson ’24 to discuss an upcoming project that’s been years in the making.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episodes 9 & 10, Reviewed

Vaughn Armour ’25 reviews the last two episodes of “Survivor,” detailing the rise and fall of one competitor and some of this season’s best strategic plays.

Context, Creation, Come Up: Alex Russell ’23

For the inaugural edition of 3 C’s (Context, Creation, Come-Up), Kobe Thompson ’24 interviews musician Alex Russell ’23 ahead of his debut album “Stardust,” exploring his influences and creative process.

“An Invitation” From Amherst and Mount Holyoke Dance

Last weekend, Amherst College and Mount Holyoke College Dance Departments presented their Fall Faculty Dance Concert. Eren Levine ’24 reviews the performances, reflecting on each piece’s individuality.

Memories and Nostalgia in A24’s “Aftersun”

Charlotte Wells’ new film “Aftersun” is a visual representation of the cracks in our memories. Cole Warren ’24 reviews the movie, which follows a daughter reflecting on her father’s death upon becoming a mother herself.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 8, Reviewed

In episode eight of “Survivor,” this season’s potential victors begin to reveal themselves. Vaughn Armour ’25 tracks the up-and-coming competitors and one contestant’s personal backstory.

The Indicator x The Student: “Untitled”

Mariana Rivera-Donsky ’25 depicts a lonesome woman in “Untitled,” a short story originally published in the Spring 2022 issue of The Indicator.

The Indicator x The Student: “Broken Hinges”

Gracie Rowland ’25 explores lost hopes and dreams in “Broken Hinges,” a poem originally published in the Spring 2022 issue of The Indicator.

Worlds Collide: ASO, Choral Society, and Jazz Ensemble

For Family Weekend, Amherst musical ensembles collaborated on a performance to celebrate 100 years since voting rights were extended to women in the U.S. Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ’23 recounts the powerful and thought-provoking concert.

Theater Takes Flight in “The Birdcage”

Green Room’s production of “The Birdcage” flew in for Family Weekend. Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ’23 reviews the show, which aptly follows a young couple and the contentious union of their two families.

UMass Dance’s “Scheherazade” Is on Pointe

The UMass Dance Department presented a reproduction of “Scheherazade,” featuring dancers from all Five Colleges. Assistant Arts and Living Editor ’24 Sarah Weiner recaps the performance, which put forth a strong commentary on gender and power.

“Wendell & Wild” Diversifies Stop-motion Genre

Henry Selick, creator of iconic stop-motion animation films like “Coraline,” teamed up with Jordan Peele for “Wendell & Wild.” Erin Williams ’26 reviews the movie, which can sometimes feel bloated but is nonetheless an enjoyable ride.

“Survivor”: Season 43: Episode 7, Reviewed

In episode 7 of “Survivor,” castaways voted out the last member before jury. Vaughn Armour ’25 recaps the hilarious challenges and unexpected revelations that lead to a shocking elimination.

Who Was the Inauguration Really For?

Ross Kilpatrick ’24E reflects on the presidential inauguration of the Michael A. Elliott and the complex division between faculty and students at elite academic institutions.

Reflecting on the Itaewon-ro Stampede

On Saturday, Oct. 29, a stampede in the Itaewon district of Seoul, South Korea, claimed over 150 lives. Pho Vu ’23 reflects on the tragedy in Itaewon, a place that she herself has frequented.

Green Room’s “Cars: A Parody”: Kachow!

Green Room’s first production of the semester, “Cars: A Parody,” debuted on Oct. 21. Assistant Arts and Living Editor Noor Rahman ’25 reviews the show, noting the talent of the cast and the wit of the writing.

Swift’s Sun Starts To Set in “Midnights”

Taylor Swift’s latest album, “Midnights,” dropped last week to online buzz and record sales. Managing Arts and Living Editor and resident Taylor Swift expert Brianne LaBare ’25 analyzes Swift’s newest work.

“The Loneliest Time” Is a Great Time

Carly Rae Jepsen’s latest album “The Loneliest Time” was released on Oct. 21, 2022. Miles Garcia ’25 details the well-rounded album’s sparse weaknesses and many strengths.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 6, Reviewed

In episode six of “Survivor,” tensions between contestants intensify as the merge episode approaches. Vaughn Armour ’25 critiques their strategy, and details this episode’s surprises.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 5, Reviewed

Episode five of “Survivor” included a historically loathed twist and narrowed the castaway pool. Vaughn Armour ’25 describes his viewing experience, which was at times agonizing.

WAMH x The Student: Live Performances

Concerts have returned in full force, but are they as impactful as iconic pop performances of the past? Victoria Thomas ’25 reflects on her recent experiences seeing Harry Styles and Bruno Mars live.

The Indicator x The Student: “There is no stopping Her”

A’Cora Hickson ’25 portrays the realization of internalized emotions in “There is no stopping Her,” a poem originally published in the Spring 2022 issue of The Indicator.

The Indicator x The Student: “6:43 P.M.”

Jackeline Fernandes ’24 imagines a strained relationship between father and daughter in “6:43 P.M.,” a story originally published in the Spring 2022 issue of The Indicator.

A Study of Studio Ghibli’s Hidden Gems

Joe Sweeney ’25 celebrates the end of Ghibli Fest 2022 by discussing some of his favorite Studio Ghibli films and ranking them all for new and veteran fans alike.

Try Not To Commit Infidelity Challenge

“The Try Guys” cheating scandal, which revealed that Ned Fulmer cheated on his wife with a coworker, recently went viral. Willow Delp ’26 critiques the “wife guy” archetype, a man who uses his wife to endear himself to others.

An Analysis of the Criticism of Halle Bailey’s Casting as Ariel

Disney’s newest live-action remake, “The Little Mermaid,” starring Halle Bailey, released its first trailer last month to mixed reactions. Mackenzie Dunson ’25 breaks down the racist criticisms against Bailey’s casting and emphasizes the importance of Black representation.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 4, Reviewed

The fourth episode of Survivor was released on Oct. 12. Vaughn Armour ’25 recaps the episode’s unexpected outcomes and cursed victories.

K’s Nutrition Is the Freshest Face (and Smoothie) in Town

K’s Nutrition is Amherst’s newest health bar. Pho Vu ’23 sat down with owner Bryant Keeney to discuss the menu and exciting upcoming plans and additions.

Alex’s Super Spooky Seasonal Story

To inaugurate the start of the spooky season, Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ’23 presents an eerie story about a mother and her daughter.

Sports Documentary “The Redeem Team” Is a Slam Dunk

Who doesn’t love a comeback story? Assistant Arts and Living Editor Noor Rahman ’25 reviews “The Redeem Team,” a documentary that recounts the U.S. Basketball Team’s victory at the 2008 Olympics.

You’ll Fall for Liane Moriarty’s “Apples Never Fall”

Eren Levine ’24 reviews “Apples Never Fall” by Liane Moriarty, a multi-dimensional mystery novel that should be at the top of your reading list.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 3, Reviewed

The third episode of “Survivor 43” is out! Vaughn Armour ’25 dissects the episode’s emotional twists and turns.

Broken Hearts Abound in Ghostlight Triple Feature

Amherst’s newest theater group, Ghostlight, premiered their “Triple Feature” this week. Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ’23 discusses the trio of student productions, which each featured original scripts and casts.

ASO Welcomes Class of 2026 and President Elliott

On Oct. 1, the Amherst Symphony Orchestra held its first performance of the semester. Managing Arts and Living Editor Madeline Lawson ’25 recaps the concert, which welcomed the Class of 2026 and President Michael Elliott to Amherst.

Celebrating Amherst’s Latinx Community and Voices

This Hispanic Heritage Month, Piero Campos ’25 highlights five members of Amherst’s Latinx community. They discuss their connections with their cultures and how they explore their heritage at Amherst.

Poetic Perspectives: “Writing My Body”

Poetic Perspectives returns with Mikayah Parsons’ ’24 “Writing My Body,” an exploration of abortion rights and bodily autonomy.

“The Bear” Reminds Me of My Outrage as an Amherst Student

“The Bear” has captivated viewers with a grounded, gritty depiction of kitchen work. Mase Peterson ’23E uses the show to reflect on their experiences in food service and their perspective as a student with marginalized identities.

“Thirteen Lives” Tells Story of Hope and Determination

Davis Rennella ’24 reviews Academy Award-winning filmmaker Ron Howard’s new movie, “Thirteen Lives,” a dramatized account of the mission to rescue a boy’s soccer team trapped in a flooded cave in Thailand.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 2, Reviewed

Season 43 of “Survivor” is in full swing! Vaughn Armour ’25 recaps the second episode, which revealed heartfelt backstories and surprising twists.

WAMH x The Student: Neko Case

Neko Case’s music transcends genre and generation. WAMH e-board member Sylvie Wolff ’25 reflects on two of the artist's albums, tracking their presence in her life.

The Indicator x The Student: “Till Some Blind Hand Shall Brush My Wing”

Originally published in The Indicator’s Spring 2022 issue “Break,” “Till Some Blind Hand Shall Brush My Wing” by Joe Sweeney ’25 explores a man’s reflections on loss while waiting for a flight.

The Indicator x The Student: “the breakfast date (break, fast!)”

Sam Spratford ’24 reflects on love, adolescence, and lost hopes in “the breakfast date (break, fast!),” a poem originally published in the Spring 2022 issue of The Indicator.

Jason Moran Kicks Off Presidential Scholars Series

Jason Moran, the college’s first 2022-2023 Presidential Scholar, is an award-winning jazz pianist who spent the last week hosting a series of masterclasses and lectures on campus. Assistant Arts & Living Editor Noor Rahman ‘25 breaks down his final event, featuring a panel and concert.

“Poetry Isn’t Perfect,” And Neither Is Publishing

The Emily Dickinson Museum’s annual “Tell It Slant” Festival featured discussions and workshops led by acclaimed poets. Assistant Arts & Living Editor Sarah Weiner ’24 reviews one of the headlining events, “Poetry Isn’t Perfect: A Publication Panel with The Common.”

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 1, Reviewed

“Survivor” has returned for its highly anticipated Season 43! Vaughn Armour ’25 recaps the season premiere, which highlighted the lineup of new players and their diverse backgrounds.

Student Cinema Stuns at Premiere Showing

Piper Mohring ’25 and Caden Stockwell ’25 showed their short film this past Saturday, Sept. 17, to a full house in Keefe Theater. Jacob Young ’25 reviews the film, which was narrated in French by Community Service Officer Merouane Daffar and filmed in Paris.

Val Hacks: Pho’s Frappe

In this edition of Val Hacks, Pho Vu ’23 whips up a frappe in an effort to emulate Starbucks’ classic and delectable drinks.

Retrospective on “The Sandman”

“The Sandman,” a comic series written by Neil Gaiman, recently received a Netflix adaptation. Ross Kilpatrick ’24E reviews the comic, which thrills with cosmic ideology but sometimes suffers from a slow plot.

WAMH x The Student: “BREAK THE CURSE”

Arlie’s “BREAK THE CURSE” is the band’s debut album, taking listeners on a journey full of nostalgia and relief. WAMH Publicity Director Helen Feibes ’23 reviews the album and relives her beloved band’s live concert in Cambridge.

Disney’s D23 Expo: Sequels, Shorts, and Spinoffs

Disney’s 14th annual D23 exposition featured exciting announcements of upcoming projects but left fans unsatisfied with disappointing omissions of highly anticipated updates. Vaughn Armour ’25 breaks it all down, analyzing casting choices and new trailers, and predicting future announcements.

Ghostlight: Amherst’s Newest Theater Haunt

Amherst’s newest student-run theater group, Ghostlight, is currently preparing for their first production, a “Triple Feature” later this month. Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ’23 sits down with Matt Vitelli ’24 to discuss the founding and future of the group.

“Tuca and Bertie”: A Comedic Look at Modern Adult Life

Adult animation has had a resurgence on Netflix, including cult hits such as “Bojack Horseman” and “Tuca and Bertie.” Joe Sweeney ’25 reviews the latter, which follows two birds as they deal with adult problems, such as relationship issues.

The Indescribable Beauty of “Mad God”

Visual effects artist Phil Tippett shines in his sophomore directorial project, “Mad God.” Miles Garcia ’25 takes the reader through the lovingly crafted film, which features incredible practical effects and a transcendent story.

Don’t Say “Nope” To Jordan Peele’s Newest Film

Cole Warren ’24 breaks down Jordan Peele’s new horror film “Nope,” criticizing the movie’s spectacle and suspense, antithetical to the film’s theme of exploitation in Hollywood, while still declaring it the summer’s best blockbuster.

“Where the Crawdads Sing”: The Cinematic Marsh

The anticipated movie adaptation of “Where the Crawdads Sing,” a novel made famous by Reese’s Book Club, was released this summer. Eren Levine ’24 recommends the film for fans of the book, as well as for those who have not read it before.

The Indicator x The Student: “Flashbulb Memory and the Things I Have to Remind Myself to Forget”

Sofia Hincapie-Rodrigo ’24 explores nostalgia and memories of a former love in this short piece, which was published in the Spring 2022 issue of The Indicator.

The Indicator x The Student: “I Broke My English”

In a republished piece from the Spring 2022 issue of “The Indicator,” Priscilla Lee ’25 explores love and connection through a multilingual lens.

“HSM:TM:TS” Season 3 Embraces Black Girl Love

The third season of “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” premiered this summer to rave reviews. Mikayah Parsons ’24 analyzes the season’s improvement on Gina Wylie’s character arc, following a young Black girl’s journey to self-love.

Bad Bunny’s Newest Album: End of Summer Vibes

Bad Bunny’s newest album, “Un Verano Sin Ti,” skyrockets up the global charts. Piero Campos ’25 breaks down how the artist embraces his Latinx heritage through evocative lyrics and bachata and merengue inspired beats.

WAMH x The Student: “Renaissance”

This summer, Beyoncé dropped her hit album “Renaissance.” WAMH Events Coordinator Nii-Ayi Aryeetey ’23 delves into the album’s joyous and dynamic tracks, heavily inspired by Black music genres, including House, Ballroom, and disco.

Digital Art: Exploring the New Frontier

Reflecting on a summer visit to an immersive Gustav Klimt art exhibition in Vienna, Cassidy Duncan ’25 explores and questions the potential consequences of the digitized art world.

Which Val Cereal Are You?

The Student is here with the only metric you need to truly understand your personality type: which Val cereal are you? An intricately constructed scientific algorithm will match you with the breakfast item that represents you at your core.

Wisdom and Perspective: Discussing Identity with Michelle Zauner

The Multicultural Student Union hosted Michelle Zauner of the pop band Japanese Breakfast in Johnson Chapel on May 4. Sarah Weiner ʼ24 recounts her wisdom and charm.

The Symphony Signing Off: ASO’s Season Finale

The Amherst Symphony Orchestra performed their last concert of the season last Saturday. Managing Arts and Living Editor Madeline Lawson ʼ25 reviews the performance, which featured a concerto from violinist Marie Leou ʼ22.

Schrodinger’s Matt: A Covid Saga

Luke Herzog ʼ24, Lena Lamer ʼ22, and Matt Vitelli ʼ24 recount a true story of deep confusion: when a food delivery to Matt’s quarantine room at the Econo Lodge mysteriously disappears, the three set out to solve the mystery.

Acclimating to Academics Abroad: Exchange Students Explain

This semester, Amherst College hosted nine exchange students from around the world. Pho Vu ’23, an exchange student herself, delves into the challenges of making Amherst home.

The Legacy of [email protected]

[email protected] Room has been an important recurring social event on campus amid a slow return to “normalcy.” Davis Rennella ʼ24 chronicles the founding of the program’s predecessor, [email protected]

The “Soul of Calypso”: Celebrating Soca

Looking to explore new music? Tiia McKinney ʼ25 recommends soca, a genre of Caribbean music that originated in Trinidad and Tobago and is popular at Carnivals.

“My Brilliant Friend”: A Fascinating Adaptation

“My Brilliant Friend” adapts Elena Ferrante’s “Neapolitan Novels” into HBO’s first foreign language series. Kaelyn Milby ʼ22 reviews the series, which follows two friends from childhood to adulthood in twentieth century Italy.

STEM Network x The Student: Jeeyon Jeong

Professor of Biology Jeeyon Jeong was recently awarded a prestigious CAREER award from the National Science Foundation. Sarah Lapean ʼ23 details her research, career, and future plans.

STEM Network x The Student: Sally Kim and Marc Edwards

Professors of Biology Sally Kim and Marc Edwards recently received a Major Research Instrumentation grant from the National Science Foundation to purchase new lab equipment. Necati Akinci ʼ25 sits down with them to speak about the chemistry research that earned them the grant and their future plans.

“Survivor” Season 42: Episode 9, Reviewed

Vaughn Armour ’25 recaps the ninth episode of “Survivor,” as the number of castaways decreases and the stakes increase. He notes that one particular player is emerging as the lead competitor.

Moved by a Melody: Choral Society’s Spring Concert

Last Friday, the Amherst College Choral Society performed their Spring concert, “Everlasting Voices.” Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ’23 recaps their first performance since the Glee Club’s merger with Chorus.

“Step Into…The Movies”: Doing Dance a Disservice

“Step Into…The Movies” resurrects famous Hollywood dance scenes with a star-studded cast list. But Eren Levine ’24 notes that the TV special lacks the charm, intrigue, and focus on dancing that she expected it to have.

“Survivor” Season 42: Episode 8, Reviewed

The eighth episode of this season of “Survivor” revealed more strained relationships among the eight remaining castaways. Vaughn Armour ’25 reflects on the history of racial biases in the show and explains how the current cast is flipping the script.

Poetic Perspectives: “Hush.”

In this week’s issue of “Poetic Perspectives,” Managing Arts and Living Editor Aniah Washington ’22 shares a poem about her mother, documenting unfulfilled dreams and generational trauma.

“Collecting 101”: The Art of Acquiring Art

“Collecting 101: Acquiring Art for the Mead” is an internship that helps select new pieces for the Mead Museum while studying the art of curation. Cassidy Duncan ’25 reflects on her experience with visiting art studios and presenting potential pieces for the Mead to the Amherst community.

“Survivor” Season 42: Episode 7, Reviewed

The seventh episode of this season of “Survivor” premiered last Wednesday. Vaughn Armour ’25 reviews the episode, which was predictable, yet enjoyable and entertaining.

For the Love of Film: Green Room’s “The Flick”

Ross Kilpatrick ’24E reviews Green Room’s “The Flick,” a play he describes as “a love letter to film.” Written by Annie Baker, the play won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2014.

Poetic Perspectives: “Narratives of Trauma”

In this week’s issue of “Poetic Perspectives,” Mikayah Parsons ’24 presents “Narratives of Trauma,” which critiques the expectation for Black students to share their traumas in order to gain admission into elite institutions.

“The Night House” Shows the Sinister Side of Solitude

HBO Max’s “The Night House” is an unconventional yet terrifying horror movie. Cole Warren ’24 analyzes the film, which follows a distraught widow trying to untangle her late husband’s true identity while being plagued by a supernatural entity.

Satire: The Secret, Startling Seventh Ten Minute Play

Remember the Green Room Ten Minute Play Festival earlier this month? Joe Sweeney ’25 pokes fun at the festival, reviewing a fictitious seventh play which he deems unwatchable.

WAMH x The Student: Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus’s new album, “ATTENTION: MILEY LIVE,” is a collection of the singer’s classic tracks performed live. Victoria Thomas ’25 reflects on the performer’s history and journey of self-discovery, as expressed through the album.

“Survivor” Season 42: Episode 6, Reviewed

The sixth episode of this season of “Survivor” aired on April 13. Vaughn Armour ’25 gives us the rundown of the special two-hour episode, which features a merge between the three tribes.

Creativity and Craft: ASO’s Compelling Concertos

The Amherst Symphony Orchestra performed on April 9, expressing solidarity with Ukraine while showcasing senior soloists. Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ʼ23 reviews the performance with insights from Music Director and Conductor Mark Lane Swanson.

“The Last Five Years”: An Innovative and Invigorating Thesis Production

Mattea Denney’s ʼ22 senior thesis was a reproduction of Jason Robert Brown’s musical “The Last Five Years.” Olivia Lynch ʼ25 reviews the play, which featured unconventional storytelling and a talented cast.

A Balancing Act: “Everything Everywhere, All at Once”

The much anticipated “Everything Everywhere, All At Once,” directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Schienert, premiered on Friday, April 8. Miles Garcia ʼ25 covers the twists and turns of the film, which is both a family drama and “an off-the-wall sci-fi multiverse adventure.”

Remembering The King of New York and La Reina de Tex-Mex

In memory of the lives of two influential music legends, Piero Campos ʼ25 explores the careers and legacies of The Notorious B.I.G. and Selena. Both artists continue to influence new generations of performers decades after their passing.

“Survivor” Season 42: Episode 5, Reviewed

Things have been heating up in “Survivor” Season 42! Vaughn Armour ʼ25 recaps the action of episode 5 and shares his predictions for the rest of the season.

Poetic Perspectives: “Masterpiece” and “A Walk”

Ernest Collins ’23 shares two striking poems for this week’s edition of Poetic Perspectives. The pieces both feature themes of self-discovery and resiliency.

The Power of Petite Plays: Green Room’s Ten Minute Play Festival Wows

The Amherst College Green Room put on its annual Ten Minute Play Festival this weekend. Senior Managing Editor Theo Hamilton ʼ23 summarizes the short and punchy sketches.

Two Local Film Festivals Highlight Global Voices

Sarah Weiner ʼ24 reports on two ongoing film festivals, the Ibero-American Hybrid Film Festival and the Massachusetts Multicultural Film Festival, which feature global perspectives and often marginalized stories.

Mase Peterson ’23E Presents: “The Ring Road”

Mase Peterson ʼ23E presents a lyric essay inspired by an experience abroad in Iceland. Driving down a remote road, Peterson struggles with isolation on a search for the Northern Lights.

Film Society x The Student: “After Yang”

Diego Duckenfield-Lopez ’24 of the Amherst College Film Society explores Kogonada’s “After Yang,” and how the film reimagines common sci-fi tropes of androids to scrutinize social classifications.

Poetic Perspectives: Two Paintings

In this week’s edition of “Poetic Perspectives,” Melinda Arthur ʼ25 presents two poems, inspired by the paintings “Starry Night” by Vincent van Gogh and “Garden of Earthly Delights” by Hieronymus Bosch.

“Death on the Nile”: Revival of a Classic Mystery

Eren Levine ʼ24 analyzes the new cinematic remake of Agatha Christie’s “Death on the Nile.” The new adaptation is a fresh twist on the story last adapted in 1978, incorporating the political circumstances of 2022.

“Survivor” Season 42: Episode 4, Reviewed

Episode four of “Survivor” was less riveting than the last, but still delivered for Vaughn Armour ʼ25. He recaps the building tension and excitement of this week’s episode.

Fifth Annual Black Art Matters Festival Celebrates Artists, Poets, and Musicians

Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ’23 discusses the fifth annual Black Art Matters festival with participating artists and performers. The event was held on Thursday, March 24, in the Powerhouse.

Breaking Thesis Boundaries in “Boundless”

Alistair Edwards’ ’22 senior thesis in Theater and Dance, “Boundless,” is a radio play that premiered on March 25 and 26. Managing Arts and Living Editor Madeline Lawson ’25 walks through the production and Edwards’ thesis process.