Definitions, denials and decisions: What Would C. Do? Advice from an Anonymous Friend

Posted by C.

Since this is an interesting, diverse topic week, I thought I would consider a word that seems to be the "Skidmore word" of the 2010-2011 school year: BIDDIE. What exactly is a biddie, you ask? The submissions on UrbanDictionary describe it as:

**Disclaimer: The quote is excessively long because I believe this incorporates all that is complicating in an overly used word.

"1. In a generic usage, biddie is the female counterpart of a bro. Where a bro is overly male, overly stupid, and often intoxicated, the biddie is overly female, overly stupid and often intoxicated ... Pejorative but can also be used in a friendly context.


3. A total mess. This usage emphasizes the pejorative aspects ... and does not always (but can) encompass the more complimentary connotations of the word.

This word has been tossed around all year, and it seems we are a bit confused about the true meaning: is it a term of endearment or a term of humiliation? Let me know what you think at

Dear C.,

My roommate walked in while I was masturbating. Now, it's so awkward…he doesn't look me in the eye. Should I pretend it didn't happen?

Lost in Lubrication

Dear Lost in Lube,

You would be surprised about how often this actually happens — more than you would think and more than you would want it to happen.

If pretending it did not happen is comfortable for you, take that route. However, ignoring the subject may take you down a tense road. If you want, bring it up as casually as possible. Begin by apologizing; this is an awkward situation for both of you, so it is best to nip it in the butt. Perhaps he will sympathize with you, since it could have happened to him, too. The best advice I can give: before you proceed with your five-knuckle shuffle, hold on for one second and lock the door.

Dear C.,

When choosing a place to study abroad, should I base my decision on my academics — completing my major? Or choose a country I've always wanted to visit?

Traveler 101

Dear Traveler 101,

I found myself in this predicament. I decided going abroad is about going to a country where I have never been before, taking classes that are not offered at Skidmore and having a barrel of fun — especially at Oktoberfest. Could I have an amazing time in a country that would further my major? Yes. But I would not have the same level of excitement.

Now consider your situation: are you behind in your major? If so, you might need to compromise and make the system work for you. Look for classes that are similar to your major in your first choice country; ask your advisor and major chairman while professing your love of the country, and hopefully they will consider it.

You might be struggling the rest of your Skidmore career to finish your major, but going to a country you are passionate about might be worth it

Stars and Hearts, C.

Fight Club demonstrates in D-Hall

Plagiarism surveyed at Skidmore