Today was a Sunday, meaning the day began late. Very late for me today: noon. Due to the absence of lectures in the morning, I was able to sleep in until lunch today. I woke up and headed straight there, where I ate a delectable meal consisting of corn, cheese pizza, and a banana. After lunch, I played table tennis in the hive for a bit before heading to Herty for a college roundtable with our TAs. They answered our questions about college life and the application process, and we learned valuable information, such as that there is a large overlap between physics majors and rock climbing enthusiasts (thanks Claire!). Good for me, I guess, as a former rock climber.
After the roundtable, we headed back to the hive for the spectacle of the day: the official table tennis tournament, organized by Evan. The tournament had it all, featuring intense matches, upsets, and people complaining about the rules, but it all culminated with one moment: me winning the final in a tight match over Andria, despite having been down match point in the semifinals just 10 minutes earlier. As a result, I got a new book, The Total Skywatcher’s Manual (Thanks Dr. D!)
After the tournament, we made friendship bracelets for each other, featuring kind messages and savage jokes (thanks Maura for all the materials!). I had a lot of trouble, dropping or breaking most of those I tried to make, but eventually was able to finish three. I wish I could give one to everyone, but unfortunately there was not enough time or supplies. I’ll keep making them whenever I have time.
After dinner, we headed to Herty to resume work on our problem sets and orbit determination code. Today, naturally, was Bastille Day, so we had to celebrate everyone’s favorite Frenchman, Pierre. We drew fun pictures expressing our affection for him and for France, and we got croissants to eat to celebrate (thanks Dr. Ice!).
We’re all looking forward to resuming lectures and work after the weekend tomorrow.
Also, I would like to set the record straight once and for all: It is ANDREW N who threatened ME with compressed air frostbite, not the other way around, despite the misinformation that seems to be spreading. Just wanted to be sure everyone knew.
-Michael C
