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Tag Archives: New Brunswick

Reflections of a Philosophy Major ~ Ben Kharakh

Reflections of a Philosophy Major ~ Ben Kharakh

In a philosophy class, it’s minus points if your plans mean you can’t Quantum Leap into Genghis Khan. I’m pretty sure “no time travel” isn’t a problem anywhere else. “Hey, you wanna hang out?” With dinosaurs and Richelieu?! “No, with me.” Nah, I’m good. “Hey, I’m gonna order a pizza. Want some?” Is it one of those time traveling pizzas? “Is that like a pizza that’s already eaten by the time you get it? Because I’m not paying for an empty box.” Then, no, I don’t want any.

Inside JVP: An Interview with Alex Draine by Ben Kharakh

Inside JVP: An Interview with Alex Draine by Ben Kharakh

In this edition of Inside JVP, I turn the tables on Alex and “Draine” him of some of his Draineness as I learn more about one of the Johnsonville’s more prolific contributors.

Inside JVP: An Interview with Alex Giannattasio by Ben Kharakh

Inside JVP: An Interview with Alex Giannattasio by Ben Kharakh

JVP Co-founder and former editor-in-chief Alex Giannattasio might be studying law in DC, but his presence is always felt at the Johnsonville– whether it be in his comments, guidance, or ever-growing legacy as a contributor. And while this Q and A isn’t the same as having Alex around full time, it’ll have to hold you over for now.

JVP Speaks: Giving to Charity

JVP Speaks: Giving to Charity

Peter Singer spoke at Rutgers last week, giving his renowned talk on donating to charities. In this weeks JVP Speaks, the Johnsonville sounds off on the event and the argument.

Beyond Terrorism ~ Bilal Ahmed

Beyond Terrorism ~ Bilal Ahmed

The last three and a half weeks have been incredibly stressful, and I am sure those readers who are familiar with the recent controversies facing BAKA: Students United for Middle Eastern Justice can understand why. BAKA is a secular and political campus organization that attempts to combat injustices by raising awareness of those injustices currently taking place in the Middle East and its Diasporas. While I am a member of BAKA’s executive board, this article conveys opinions that belong to me as an individual rather than the group as a whole.

Inside JVP: An Interview with Mike Stuzynski by Ben Kharakh

Inside JVP: An Interview with Mike Stuzynski by Ben Kharakh

I’ve yet to have a real life conversation with JVP Co-founder and inaugural editor-in-chief Mike Stuzynski, so the only thing I know about him are from his articles and comments. I’ve come to appreciate and respect the effort and content of Mike’s thought because in thinking about his work I end up having to re-evaluate and possibly replace my own claims. As a writer, then, Mike is providing a valuable service to the JVP community. Kudos to you, Mike! And I think the legal service you’re providing through the misdemeanor clinic is cool too!

JVP Speaks: What to Say to Apparent Racism

JVP Speaks: What to Say to Apparent Racism

You’re out and about or in and around, just doing what you do when you’re one or the other, and, ka-pow, you’re knocked aside the head with a seemingly racist comment. What do you do?

A Ghazal That Is At Least Superficially About Hair ~ Raj Venkata

A Ghazal That Is At Least Superficially About Hair ~ Raj Venkata

You’ve tangled my feet, I’m caught in your hair.
Soon I’ll be naught but a knot in your hair.

Your eyes make me want you to call me your pupil.
I long for the things I’ll be taught in your hair.

I Quote Robert Burns in This Poem ~ Raj Venkata

I Quote Robert Burns in This Poem ~ Raj Venkata

It’s a bright and clear day.
Sun creeps through the window
at an inoffensive angle.

Chewing on a crepe at
the café on Easton.
The mozzarella’s barely worth the calories.

Inside JVP: An Interview with Matia Guardabascio by Ben Kharakh

Inside JVP: An Interview with Matia Guardabascio by Ben Kharakh

As Managing Editor of the JVP, I’ve spent the past few months working closely with Editor-In-Chief Matia Guardabascio. I’ve been exposed to her sharp-wit, her strong analytic skills, and her love of literature and music. Business meetings, however, can only let one so far in to the life of another. A Q and A can provide even further access, as is the case with this interview, wherein myself and readers get to learn about Matia’s upbringing and stargazing, amongst other things. The best way to get to know someone, as Matia herself points out, remains to be through casual conversation and plain-old hanging out. But until you have the pleasure of chatting with Matia herself, this Q and A will have to hold you over.