Splash Spring 2016
Course Catalog

Music videos are attention grabbers, but they also serve an important role in pop culture. This course will touch upon several music videos that will address their purpose, their impact, and their ties to the culture they preserve.

Kanye West is the voice of our generation, or so he claims. In this class, we will chronologically examine Kanye's career along with the cultural impact his music, stage presence, fashion, and...well...twitter have had on both hip-hop and pop culture.

Join us for a dance workshop focused on beginners. We will be walking students through simple choreographies that combine basic toprock and footwork steps, to give a general idea of the breaking style. We will not be teaching power moves.

This is a course intended solely for novices. Experienced dancers are welcome and appreciated but will not receive very much benefit from attending.

Bring comfortable clothing that will be easy to move around in; this workshop can be physically rigorous. Sweatpants and t-shirts are a good idea, jeans and dress shirts are questionable.

Participants will be spending extended periods of time on the floor.

Teaching students new makeup techniques and showing them how fun makeup really is! Also a little mini-lesson on the history/evolution of makeup.

Do you love making people laugh? Do people tell you that you're funny? Come on by to learn the basics of improv comedy! We'll teach you the "secrets" of improv and then we'll spend the whole class playing improv comedy games. Fun is guaranteed! No experience required!

Do you love keeping up with the latest designer fashions? Learn the in's and out's of the fashion industry. This course will cover fashion marketing, merchandising, and even tricks of the trade used by today's top designers.


Prerequisites
Creative mindset and a love of fashion

Going into College next year? Starting to think about which schools you want to apply? You're a go getter who just wants to get a head start? This class is for you. In this class we will go through the whole college process with teachers who have gone through it all. This course will be a little different, it will hand more of the power over to you. Bring your questions, that you may have that range from any step in the college process to hear the perspective of people who have gone through it.

This course will be focused on ethics in business, and will examine major ethical frameworks in business for students who are planning on studying the many branches of business in college. The content will be based on knowledge from the class Portico at Boston College and research. It will also give a brief background to the many fields of business for students who are thinking about which concentrations to take!

Do you have any friends in high school? Well now you're in college and you don't! Here's the opportunity to learn different steps and skills to acquire the new friends you've always dreamed of having in college as well as the meaning of friendship in this new chapter in life.

This courset will examine how college is portrayed in the high school years. At college we are told we can reinvent ourselves. However, reinvention implies unhinging yourself from the past. This class will examine the idealization of reinvention in society, and how it doesn't necessarily always work. This class will discuss how we all bring certain things to college. We bring our past, and we bring our context. This class will revolve around my story, and the story of whoever enters the room. What matters in college? Come to class to find out.


Prerequisites
NOTHING.

This is a casual seminar style course led by the Splash Leaders to answer all your questions relating to the college admissions process, college life, or just any general question about majors, classes, clubs, etc. Take a break from academic classes and spend some time with the eccentric and knowledgeable Splash Leaders gaining all the valuable information you would need to know to be ready for college!

Enjoy a break for lunch with your Splash Leader and friends! Please register for at least one lunch period.

Did you know that babies and even guppies know something about number? Whether we realize it or not, number and math is vital in our everyday interactions. This course will serve as a brief introduction to numerical and mathematical development throughout the lifespan. Topics may include: the relationship between our innate sense of number and our later math abilities, how social factors (such as: math anxiety, dyscalculia, and gender stereotypes) impact math performance.

We will analyze different mental disorders and relate them to TV show characters that exhibit the disorders.

*SPOILER ALERT for the Star Wars Episode VII*
Are you a vicious Star Wars nerd, curious about what's to come in the new trilogy? Come and hear all about the most plausible fan theories created so far about where the new Star Wars trilogy is going and why it makes sense in the context of the previous 6 movies.

This introductory course will teach students fingerspelling, some basic signs, and the importance of learning sign language.

This course will provide an introduction to the Modern Greek language. You will have the opportunity to learn basic conversational vocabulary and various common sayings.

This course looks at the narrative and editing that goes into the reality competition show, Survivor. We will look at episode features such as character arcs, plot lines, and foreshadowing. Learn about the story of how one castaway outwits, outlasts, and outplays their way to a 39 day, million dollar pay off.

In August of 2016, I will begin journey across the USA on foot with a friend from High school. Our goal is to celebrate face-to-face conversations. Students interested in creating their own adventures, in community engagement, and in actualizing your service oriented goals, come out to this workshop on how to plan a trip that seeks to serve others.

Have you ever wondered why you "like" someone when you meet them? Why you are drawn to a friend or partner physically or emotionally?

How we relate to other people is the single most important thing that gives our life meaning. Let's find out why.

***If you're a junior or senior, I highly suggest taking this course as a way to learn about college social dynamics and how to make the most out of the college social scene***

This course will cover the basics of the Latin language--grammar, vocabulary, and "Latin-in-English" sayings.

This course focuses on the connection between Public Health and Human Rights in the past and in present society. It also looks at Public Health globally and then here in the United States.

Fairy tales have been a part of culture for centuries, serving as a demonstration of morals in a particular society. Even today, Disney has revived several fairy tales, making them immensely popular. In this class we will analyze different versions of fairy tales such as Sleeping Beauty and Little Red Riding Hood. We will compare different versions throughout history and how they reflect that time period and its morals.

The best stories stick with us forever and have the power to change our lives for the better. This class will look at a few stories and tropes that appear in them and how effective (or ineffective) they are. Our love extends to most forms of storytelling, but we will be focusing on books and movies. Join us in our Quest for the ultimate story!

Students will learn the basics of economics through fun games and simulations!

This course will be a lecture on four different fictional characters and how their actions and personalities fit into different moral frameworks. The characters will be Professor Dumbledore from Harry Potter, Darth Vader from Star Wars, Aragorn from The Lord of the Rings, and Iroh from Avatar: The Last Airbender.


Prerequisites
Be familiar with one or more of the characters we will be studying.

This class will look at different aspects of the beloved television program "Friends," and how its characters and scenarios relate to psychology. No experience with psychology classes is necessary, but the class will be more fun if you are familiar with the show

Whether you love the Bard of Avon or find him “loathsome as a toad”, he remains today one of the greatest names in the history of Western literature. To shed some light on this, we will be looking into the theatrical and thematic elements of his plays, as well as the historical context of Shakespeare’s career. Hopefully, you will leave the class with a better understanding of Shakespeare and his plays, and insight as to why people still bother to read and perform them 400 years later.


Prerequisites
It would be helpful if students have read something of Shakespeare's plays. However, if your knowledge of Shakespeare extends no further than the movie "The Lion King" (which was loosely inspired by Hamlet), that's okay too.

Why study English?
a) I like it
b) I can't stop re-reading Bleak House
c) I want to grow as a person
d) I write better than the eponymous heroine in your average kunstlerroman
e) It's a trap! I thought we wouldn't do multiple choice!

Bottom line: if you have any interest in college-level English, this class is for you! We'll talk about the opportunities, challenges and joys found in studying English at BC (and in general). The class is discussion-based, so please come with questions! Content will be flexible based on everyone's interests; topics may include curriculum and coursework, career ideas, writing/homework tips, classroom culture, and other English-y things at our collective discretion. (And I didn't even mention books!!)


Prerequisites
This course is designed for students who may consider English as a college major or minor, although the only prerequisite is an interest in literature and writing.

We will be hosting Harry Potter trivia that will not only enthrall, but enlighten. Students will learn more about the realm of magic within the Harry Potter Universe.


Prerequisites
Prior exposure to the wizarding world of Harry Potter is recommended but by no means required.

What if you didn’t have free will? Seems like an idea straight out of a movie, but what if that was true in real life? It’s one of the most important questions that nobody ever asks, except in this class, where we will explore what it really means to have freedom and debate whether or not you actually freely chose to sign up for this class. Philosophers, psychologists, and scientists around the world have been arguing about free will for centuries. Sound interesting? Sign up and join the discussion!

Notes on instructors: Class co-taught by BC sophomores John Knowles and Ameet Kallarackal. One believes we have free will, the other does not.


Prerequisites
none, except curiosity

Do you want to Make America Great Again? Are you currently Feeling the Bern? Are you Ready for Hillary? Or are you Cruzin' to Victory? And what about poor Jeb!?

Students will be given a background on ethical questions surrounding all elections and campaigns, and they will be applying these concepts to the 2016 election through small debates. Winner of the debates will receive their very own satirical 2016 election t-shirt.

The U.S. has frequently engaged in military operations that sought to rebuild state institutions following conflict since 1898. Aside from Japan and West Germany following WWII, most have failed to meet their stated objectives. This course will explore why this is the case. What mistakes have been made in the past and what policy decisions should be made to avoid these failures in the future? We will also explore why other states engage in armed state building in the first place. Students will be able to play the role of President, and decide what they would do in various circumstances.

What is positive psych? It's developing hope, resilience, strengths, coping strategies, gratitude, and wellbeing. We'll talk about ways to cope with stress when life gets too hectic, how to turn strengths into skills, and how your resilience can be your greatest asset.

Do you know or want to know more information about the global water crisis ad what you can do to help end it? Join the Boston College chapter of charity:water to learn more! We'll give you tips on reducing your water usage, tell you some crazy facts about just how much water you use, and more importantly tell you how you and your friends can help the cause!

Are you a human being? Then feminism matters to you! Don't believe us? Take this super awesome, interesting, life-changing course on the relevance and importance of feminism in today's society, and in 2 hours you will embrace the f-word.

This course will be interactive, including a look at some of history's baddest bitches, an overview of modern feminism, and a discussion about what feminism means to you. We will address the political, social, and economic benefits of feminism and the importance of feminism for all genders, races, and classes.


Prerequisites
A curious and open mind!!!!

Get a new glimpse into your favorite childhood movie! We will be exploring the biological concepts, both in the ocean environment and ocean-dwelling organisms, demonstrated in Finding Nemo. Were the creators scientifically accurate?

Want to know what it takes to get to Grey-Sloan Memorial? Pick us, choose us, love us. We’ll teach you how to jump on the carousel that never stops turning. How can you 007 your way into medical school? Learn the ins and outs of undergrad scut work and how to find your person, Boston College style. Random dance parties included. It’s a beautiful day to save lives.


Prerequisites
Seasons 1-12 of Grey's Anatomy and an interest in a career in medicine.

We've all heard about global warming but how much is actually true and not exagerated? This class will present an unbiased and factual view of climate change and how it could affect us in the future.

Do you love the ocean? Are you fascinated by marine biology and all the awesome creatures that live under the sea? Then this class is for you! We'll explore the ocean using the Galápagos as a case study. We'll talk about sharks, turtles, manta rays and more. We'll also talk about current issues with the ocean relating to climate change and pollution. Lots of cool videos and pics! No background knowledge needed. Just a willingness to learn!

The human brain is a seamless marvel and a wonder to study. This class begins by looking at the brain’s basic building block: the neuron. Then we move outwards and discover how neurons, and their billions of connections, form structures within the brain that drive our behaviors. This is an excellent class for anybody curious about the universe’s most complex—and fascinating—structure.

Do you know the difference between the hole in the ozone layer and the green house effect? When you imagine the pacific garbage patch, do you think of a giant floating island of trash? This class will debunk some of the major myths surrounding environmental science. We will discuss issues such as the garbage island, the ozone layer, population control, the scientific debate over climate change, and the difference between weather and climate. Join us to get a better understanding of modern environmental science!

This course will cover basic techniques including DNA fingerprinting, SDS PAGE and Western Blotting. If students are interested, I would be happy to cover specific experiments such as Meselsohn-Stahl, Okazaki, mRNA processing, etc. The class will be largely discussion-based; students are encouraged to ask questions and provide information beforehand about specific areas of interest.


Prerequisites
A moderate understanding of cellular biology will make this class more enjoyable, although it is not required.

You have been chosen to lead the colonization of a newly discovered plant! Do you have what it takes? Play through this simulation to find out! Along the way, you will learn about astronomy, biology, agriculture, and technology as it applies to life on a foreign planet.

Students will learn about the physics topics of relativity and black holes and how they create possibilities for time travel!

Ever wondered why some people seem to win in the relationship game, and others don't? Why being Mr. Nice Guy is beneficial in the long run, but not in college? Come to this class in order to find out the answers to the above questions, and much more. Leave with the knowledge of how market forces determine supply and demand for hookups and relationships, and what you can do to put these in your favor.

Come join our fantastic and knowledgeable Splash Leaders who will lead fun activities, and much more! These Boston College students (Splash Leaders) will even bring you to your first class. Participating in fun small group activities will help you meet other Splash and Boston College students. You will also get a chance to meet back up with your small group for lunch! When you arrive at Splash, you will find out who your Splash Leader will be. This will be the only option offered at 9 AM.

Want to start exercising and don't know how to start? Do you exercise but want to get more out of it by creating a regimen of various forms of exercise? This course will give you the tools to get the most out of exercising while minimizing soreness and injury!

Have you heard about ROTC? Do you know anyone who is in the Army or has served? What are possible career paths within the Army?

Join us for a short lecture and discussion about Student-Cadet life at Boston College, and hear from current students who work hard in academics, athletics, and ROTC in order to learn to become scholar-athlete-leaders. You can get your questions answered about Army branches and unique experiences during your college years.

Did you know that Mickey was originally named Mortimer? That Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was nicknamed Disney's Folly during production and went 400% over budget? What about the fact that Disney was sued by biologists over the portrayal of hyenas in The Lion King?

This class is meant to bring out the child in you by exploring uncommon facts about all things Disney.

(Even if you have taken this class in the past, there will be new facts)


Prerequisites
Have an interest in Disney

Well friend, a Koolakamba is a cryptid. Cryptids are a term used in cryptozoology to refer to a creature whose existence has been suggested but has never been given scientific credit. You don't have to believe in them, but it's always interesting to explore the histories and different forms of weird critters supposedly walking the Earth. Such entities include chupacabras, Bigfoot, Yeti, the Mokele Mmembe and the Loch Ness Monster.


Prerequisites
None whatsoever

Do you love the great outdoors? Have you ever wondered how to tie knots that are super useful when camping, hiking or climbing? Then take this class to learn the basics of knot tying! It'll be a blast! We'll spend the whole class doing hands-on knot tying activities to teach you some of the most important knots! No experience required.

In this course we will be addressing the emergency medical care for a blood clot that cause a myocardial infarction (heart attack) and cerebral vascular attack (stroke). We will cover important assessments, such the stroke scale, and interventions, such as CPR, for each of these medical emergencies.

Did you watch the Iowa caucus? Did you wish you were there? Were you confused about what a caucus is? Come learn about how the presidential nomination process works from a collection of political dorks, all ideological perspectives represented. We'll trace the evolution of the caucus and primary from the Grange movement. Come prepared to cast your vote in our mock caucus!


Prerequisites
A healthy interest in civic participation and the voting process.

Ever feel at a loss for words? Taking the first step is always scary, but you never know when you're going to get to know you're new BFF or mentor. Don't let your inhibition get in the way any longer-let's dive into the conversation together!

Do you like comics? Do you like movies? Do you like books (Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, etc)?
If you said yes to any of the questions listed above then this course will interest you.
We will observe the evolution of villains from "Beowulf" to pop culture now like the Joker from Batman as well as how the lines between heroes and villains have blurred.

The fitness world is plagued with erroneous claims and misconceptions. Take this course that is rooted in science and research to find out how working out once a week and eating right can give you the healthy and good-looking body you've always wanted. For boys and girls.

Basically all you need to know about foot and ankle injuries! We will tell you all about orthopedic surgery, different injuries, various walking tools, and rehabilitation. You will even have the opportunity to see fun X-rays and a real life broken ankle survivor!

In this class we'll cover emergency medical care of respiratory emergencies such as asthma, a pneumothorax, anaphylaxis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Come find out why it's so important for EMTs to think and act quickly in respiratory emergencies and what can happen when we don't take care of our lungs!

If you know the Pokemon theme song by heart, this is the class for you. We offer an introduction to the exciting world of anime (Japanese animation)! We will discuss some themes of the three main archetypes of anime: shojo, shounen and kodomo. We will delve into the rich culture of Japan through this underrated art form.

Ever wonder how deaf people communicate? Fascinated by sign language? Want to talk with people without having to speak a word?

If any of these are true, this class would be great for you. In less than one hour, we will learn how to finger spell (ABCs) and some basic signs.

Do you ever feel like girls are just a mystery? Get all your questions and answers with this one-stop shop. There are often basic facts that some boys just never learn. Coming to college and living in a community with females can lead to confusion if you don't tie up loose ends first.


Prerequisites
Must be male to participate.

Have you ever wanted to travel to Yellowstone? The Grand Canyon? Yosemite? This course will explore the vast array of National Parks in our nation and will reveal the uniqueness of several of the National Parks in our country.

Have you ever wanted to impress your friends with your juggling skills, but you don't really have any? Well, let's change that. In this class, we will learn how to do a simple three ball juggling toss. Learn the basic form so that you can practice and become a master of the art!


Prerequisites
None

This course will teach you the basics of DJing with TRAKTOR software and hardware. Basics of mixing will be explained, such as looping, beat matching, setting up beat grids, as well as learning how to operate a mixer/soundboard. Most importantly, this course will allow for a hands on approach in learning how to mix, which is often a steep learning curve.


Prerequisites
None

This class will focus on the different type of derivatives, options, and futures. We will also go over basic portfolio theory and hedging techniques.

Join us in a baking adventure that can be accomplished in your future dorm room! We will be exploring the world of microwavable desserts including "Cake in a Cup". All supplies will be provided for this exploration of creative college cuisine.

Find out how grocery stores are out there to trick you, and the INSANE amount of sugar hidden in the most popular drinks. We will also be talking about how athletes (or non-athletes) can maximize their workout results by talking about what some of the most well-known athletes eat! Plus, did you know foods are graded? Find out how to use the cool app designed to help uncover the unhealthy ingredients found in some of the most popular foods.

Do you like comedy?
Do you like making jokes?
Do you like using your imagination?
Do you like having fun?
If you answered yes to one and/or all of these questions, then you should sign up for "Funny to BC-ing you here!" You'll learn the basic skills necessary to perform long-form and short-form improv and how to write your own sketch comedy! We'll play games, make up characters, work on different accents, and write and perform our own sketches!
Come one, come all: have some fun(nies) at BC Splash 2016!

Like the sound of your voice? Forgot what your voice sounded like? Either way, we will be exploring the tricks and tips to the art of public speaking. Come hear a forensicator (competitive public speaking- not dead bodies) and constitutional debater tell you how we deal with stage-fright, the loss of words and feeling comfortable being an idiot on stage. You might even get to practice a bit ;)


Prerequisites
none, just larynx

This course/discussion is going to look at the different ways in which we use and can use logic in everyday interactions/situations as well as taking a step back to look at different arguments in life (politic, ethics, etc.). This course aims to focus on looking at situations from a neutral standpoint and the value of taking time to think clearly.

The class will essentially focus on how the United Arab Emirates managed to turn the emirate of Dubai from a once desolate desert to one of today's most recognizable cities in the world. In addition to exploring the factors that contributed to the emirate's development, I will also be discussing Dubai's demographics, economy and controversies.

Have you ever wondered what it's like to work in the world of business? Do you like math? Do you like money? If you answered yes to any of these questions, accounting might be for you.