2018 Programs

2018 Burst the Bubble Programs

Burst the Bubble programs are free, student-led, non-credit sessions where students who have a talent, interest, or skill share their knowledge with their peers. Burst the Bubble programs are offered during Winter Term and are open to all students at Elon University. Burst the Bubble programs do not include homework, tests, outside assignments or grades. There is no faculty or staff involvement in facilitating the programs.

BTB 001: K-pop: What it is and Where it’s going

Facilitators: Monica Azua-Aparicio and Thida Kim
Thursdays 5:00pm-6:30pm
Spaces Available: 25

This program will analyze the current craze that is K-pop, from the catchy songs to the addictive choreographies. Everywhere on social media, people are talking about these boy groups and girl groups from South Korea, but who are they? We will take an in depth look at what it takes to become a South Korean idol, from the trainee period, to their debut date. We will also inspect the fashion and make-up of these many idols, as well as compare their music and music videos to that of western artists. Finally, we will take a look at how K-pop has made a name for itself globally, from the group BTS winning a Billboard Music Award, to the yearly K-Con conventions held in various large cities worldwide, including New York and Los Angeles.

BTB 002: Memeology 101: The study of Memes

Facilitator: Brandon Dini
Wednesdays 7:00pm-8:00pm
Spaces Available: 25 – FULL

This Program seeks to take a closer look at memes and their impact on modern life. Memes have been around for longer than we think, and have only recently been seen in main stream media due to the rise of the internet. We would divide the program into 3 sections: history of memes, types of memes, and the impact of memes on our society.

This program seeks to look at the humorous nature of memes, but also seeks to expand student’s knowledge of memes and their impact on society. This past year, we have seen memes take on many forms and purposes. One of the biggest impacts memes have had in recent years is its impact and use during the 2016 presidential election. Memes were used to promote candidates, as well as shed light to their characters. People also used memes as a way to express themselves and their views. While we normally see memes as just a silly joke you share with friends, they are capable of much more than we give them credit for.

BTB 003: Victims of the Bomb: Why Godzilla is a Japanese Icon

Facilitator: Brian Collins
Mondays and Wednesdays 5:00pm-6:30pm
Spaces Available: 20

Given how old and prolific the Godzilla franchise is, it’s easy to forget that over sixty years ago the world-famous monster was a far different beast from what we now recognize him as. For Japan, Godzilla represented the terror of nuclear destruction. World War II, and more specifically the dropping of the atomic bombs, left the country in a state of shame and ruin. Released in 1954, Godzilla wasn’t the first film to discuss the consequences of nuclear weapons, or even the first monster movie on the subject, but it gives us a somber tale told by the people who experienced the effects of such weapons first-hand.

BTB 004: How to Outsmart the MENSA Exam

Facilitator: Gabrielle Cifelli
Mondays 5:00pm-6:00pm
Spaces Available: 15

This program is designed light up the parts of the brain that enable higher level creative thinking and problem solving. We will perform games, group activities, and practice examinations that mimic the questions on the actual Mensa entrance exam. These “questions” are very different than the typical standardized tests (such as the SAT and ACT) that we all know and have spent so much time and energy training for. The students will be given the tools to train your brain to look for specific patterns and subconsciously perform higher level thinking. A lot of the time, taking the test isn’t knowing the answer but knowing the question; if you understand what the exam is trying to measure then you can give the answer the exam is looking for. The intended outcome is not necessarily for the students to go take the Mensa exam, but for them to take these abstract thinking skills and apply them to their academic and professional careers.

BTB 005: Build a Budget High Performance Computer

Facilitator: Erik Borchers
Fridays 7:30pm-8:30pm
Spaces Available: 30

Learn how to build a high performance computer on a budget of less than $200. No experience necessary. Computer hardware performance has been advancing at a tremendous pace for over a decade. The used computer parts market is flooded with good deals, many priced extremely low or even free just so someone can get the parts out of their hands.

You will learn skills to effectively navigate the used (and new) computer parts market. We will focus on identifying how much performance you need, then finding the parts you need to achieve that computing performance on a budget. You will learn how to negotiate for a better deal, and how to identify a reputable source.

We will build a computer together. If you choose to purchase the necessary computer parts we can also build it together. The recommended budget for a computer is $170. The recommended budget for a modern gaming computer is $230. You do not have to buy computer parts to participate. The skills you learn will be relevant for the rest of your life.

BTB 006: Swing Across the Country! Swing Dancing from East to West Coast

Facilitator: Jessica Mohr
Sponsoring Student Organization: Ballroom Dance Club
Thursdays 6:00pm-8:00pm
Spaces Available: 20 – FULL

We will learn a variety of types of swing dancing whose origins hail from a variety of locations across the nation. By the end of the program, we will understand the fundamentals of partner dancing etiquette, as well as have a basic knowledge of three varieties of the dance.

BTB 007: Spanish Steps

Facilitators: Sarah Dolce and Alison Heilman
Mondays 6:00pm-8:00pm
Spaces Available: 14

We will learn a variety of Spanish-flavored dances, including Argentine Tango, Paso Doble, and Flamenco. By the end of the program, we will understand the fundamentals of partner dancing etiquette, as well as have a basic knowledge of these three dances.

BTB 008: Creating Creatures with Computers

Facilitators: Sami King and Richie Kasper
Wednesdays 7:00pm-8:15pm
Spaces Available: 30

This group will focus on creating different types of creatures/animals using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator and 3DS Max. Participants in this group will first learn how to use these computer programs, then create the creature from photos, resources online, and by one’s imaginative mind. We will give tutorials on each program at the start of each meeting, then give time to create creatures. Students should bring their own personal external hard drive. At the last session, we will critique all creatures made by each person and vote who was the most creative and cool!

BTB 009: The World of Basketball Scouting

Facilitator: Jakob Rosenberg
Wednesdays 5:00pm-6:00pm
Spaces Available: 30

This program will primarily focus on scouting players for the 2018 NBA Draft. Students will conduct intensive research into both American and foreign prospects to better their understanding of the modern game of basketball and what scouts may look for in a prospect. This work will result in students being able to conduct their own in-depth mock draft that will be compared and contrasted with the program at the conclusion of the program. We will also discuss the One-And-Done rule for college basketball players, and students will be asked to write about the rule and their opinions on whether it should be modified.

BTB 010: Survivor Elon: Outwit, Outplay, Outlast

Facilitator: Clay Thompson
Tuesdays and Thursdays 5:00pm-6:30pm
Spaces Available: 18 – FULL

Have you ever wanted to participate in the game of Survivor, but don’t want to be forced to live off rice and coconuts for weeks on end? This program will offer a simplified and shortened version of the game seen on the popular television series. Contestants can expect to participate in a variety of challenges both physical and mental and vote each other off until the finals, where a jury of previously eliminated contestants will determine a winner. Many of the usual features of Survivor will make an appearance, including tribe and individual challenges and hidden immunity idols, with a new surprise or two as well. Come prepared for some serious competition!

BTB 011: So You Want to Be in College Forever?

Facilitators: Alexandra Attanasio and Erin Wilkins
Wednesdays 5:30pm-6:30pm
Spaces Available: 20

Do you love your position as an RA, Apartment Manager, Orientation Leader, Head Staff Member, Tour Guide, Campus Recreation Student Worker, Student Union Board Member, SGA Representative, or something else you do on campus so much that you couldn’t imagine leaving it behind after graduation? Do you have mentors in Residence Life, Orientation, Admissions, the GLC, the CREDE, El Centro, Campus Rec, the SPDC, or the Center for Leadership who helped you become who you are today? If you answered yes to these questions, you might want to think about a potential career in Student Affairs! This program is for anyone and everyone interested in student affairs. Whether you have no idea what Student Affairs is and want to learn or you are in the middle of graduate school applications for Higher Education (or anywhere in between) join us for panels with Elon students/ alumni, faculty and staff guests, and discussion about how you can best pursue your passion!

BTB 012: So You Think You Can Study?

Facilitator: Danielle Lombardo
Wednesdays 5:00pm-6:00pm
Spaces Available: 20

Haven’t gotten the right study habits down, have questions about better ways to utilize time, or have it all figured out and want to help your fellow students? So You Think You Can Study will give students insight on how to study for those great grades. Students will discover new ways of learning in the brief lectures, some based on the book The Study Skills Handbook by Dr. Stella Cottrell. Students will help guide their own learning by discussing previous successes and failures of study techniques. Topics covered include: how to take notes, how to determine your learning style, how to improve your memory, and much more.

BTB 013: Neuro-Diversity: Then vs. Now

Facilitators: Erin Bishop and Morgan Ann Fleming
Sponsoring Organization: Autism Speaks University
Wednesdays 4:30pm-5:30pm
Spaces Available: 30

Throughout the program we would be discussing various aspects of developmental disorders. Helping students learn about the myths vs. facts behind disorders like Autism, Down Syndrome and more. We will also be discussing various ways to get involved in your community, as well as, various ways that communities have been able to give back and assist those with developmental disorders.
While this is a lot about self-awareness and education on disabilities, we also want to create a fun way for students to learn so that it doesn’t feel like a formal class. The goal is for students to come away with a better understanding of developmental disorders and how they can help to encourage and promote neuro-diversity across their communities and campus.

BTB 014: Applying Greek Myths in Modern Time

Facilitator: Soula Kosti
Mondays 5:00pm-6:00pm
Spaces Available: 10

This program will focus on learning Greek myths and how to apply them to modern times. Each week, we will learn a different myth, discuss it, and try to find meaning behind it. We will try to answer questions as to why myths are important, what did they mean for the people of that time period, what meaning they have for us today, and if and why they are still relevant. This program will be discussion-based.

BTB 015: Black Women in Sci-Fi: What Uniformity in A Fictional Future Says About Contemporary Perspectives on Race, Gender and Ability

Facilitator: Contia’ Prince
Fridays 4:45pm-5:45pm
Spaces Available: 30

Black Women in Sci-Fi is a lecture-based and discussion-intensive program that will examine, at an introductory level, the absence of black women in science-fiction films and the real-life consequences of such an absence. As a group, we will discuss the basics of how meaning is constructed in film through both film aesthetics and screenwriting and how that can affect the cultural psyche in terms of how certain groups are perceived. That knowledge will then be used to examine how a lack of diversity in futuristic films can affect 21st century perspectives on black women, women in general and their leadership and/or intellectual ability. Our primary basis for the latter part of our discussion will be applying cultivation theory, which focuses on the long-term effects of television on viewers’ attitudes and beliefs, to science-fiction and/or futuristic films such as Soylent Green (1973), I Am Legend (2007), The Transformers franchise (2007-present), the Resident Evil franchise (2002-2016) and several others.

BTB 016: Culinary Arts Therapy

Facilitators: Kristin Kehr and Alexander Taylor
Thursdays 5:30-7:30
Spaces Available: 10 – FULL

This program looks to use cooking and the culinary arts as a therapeutic method to improve mindfulness in our lives. Basic cooking techniques and recipes will be taught to the group to ensure safety and comfort in the program. In one period, students will be shown how to cook simple, inexpensive meals and will be encouraged to replicate the dish. Students may work individually or in groups to meet their therapeutic needs. After the meal is complete, a debrief of the exercise will enable students to reflect on the challenges of the cooking and how mindfulness can be improved throughout our lives. Intended outcomes of this program would include simple meals that students may use in their daily lives, to build comfort in the kitchen, and to improve mindfulness in their lives. No cooking experience is required to take this program; only a willingness to take time away from your busy schedules and an open mind.

BTB 017: Volcanology 101

Facilitator: Lucy Chamberlain
Mondays 6:00pm-7:15pm
Spaces Available: 18
Introducing a three-day crash-course on volcanoes and volcanic eruptions. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a mountain literally blow its top, this is the program for you. On Day One, we will cover background information on the subject, such as how volcanoes form and how and why they erupt. On Day Two, we will explore several important historical eruptions and their impact on human civilization. Day Three’s topics will include an overview of other significant volcanoes around the world.

BTB 018: Juggling, Clowns, and the Bigtop: The Skills, Stereotypes, and Background of the Circus

Facilitator: Joshua Bothwell
Sponsoring Student Org: Elon Circus Club
Tuesdays and Thursdays 5:00pm-6:00pm
Spaces Available: 20

Students will be educated in the long history of the Circus, and will have the chance to learn a number of special and fun skills. Skills range from Juggling, Clowning, Diablo, Stilts, and more. We will also be able to break social stigmas of the Circus and the Freak show.

BTB 019: Guwop to Mr. Davis: The rebranding of Gucci Mane

Facilitator: Martin Sharp
Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30pm-5:30pm
Spaces Available: 15

Radric Davis, also known as Gucci Mane, is an internationally known musician with a colorful history and a flourishing career. While many are familiar with Mr. Davis for his music documenting his street lifestyle and his run ins with the legal system over the years, few have documented the rebranding of Gucci after his most recent stint in prison. When Mr. Davis went to prison he was a violent offender with many drug issues and stomach pushing his weight to over 300 pounds. When he was released from prison in the summer of 2016 Mr. Davis walked out of prison sober and in peak physical shape. He spent his time in prison truly rebranding himself and in the last year has released a best selling autobiography written during his sentence, embraced his status as a fitness icon, married his long-time partner, and made more money than he did in nearly the entire previous decade. Gucci’s rebranding deserves a deeper dive and the Burst the Bubble program is the perfect vehicle to examine a rebranding that could turn around any company. Thank you for considering this application.

BTB 020: Living Life Aware

Facilitator: Matthew Balzano
Mondays 6:00pm-7:00pm
Spaces Available: 20 – FULL

From ancient spiritual masters to the recent buzz of mindfulness, the practice of meditation has been present in human society for thousands of years. The practice has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, increase focus, and improve states of well-being. Many people have heard of meditation, but some may have never had an opportunity to experience it. This program will provide information on topics such as: how and why to practice meditation, the benefits of meditation, and the cultural relevance of meditation. The program will then serve as an environment in which we will practice meditation together, and discuss our experiences afterward. This program is perfect for individuals who want to learn about the practice of meditation, as well as for people who are looking to further develop their current practice.

BTB 021: ARTivism: Change, Creativity, & Conflict

Facilitator: Tres McMichael
Thursdays 5:30pm-7:00pm
Spaces Available:20

Bigotry, prejudice, and discrimination continue to plague the United States and communities across the World. Despite the current social and political climate, artists have utilized their skills to make bold statements and strive for justice and equity. In this program we will explore the various ways in which the visual and performing arts can be used as tools for social change and commentary. We will read and discuss excerpts from Agusto Boal’s novel “Theatre of the Oppressed” and the “Aesthetic Perspectives” from Animating Democracy. We will also review contemporary social justice art pieces, including protest music and political art, and their effectiveness. Students will leave this program having used their creativity to make personal statements on social issues and conflicts they are passionate about.

BTB 022: Are You the Next Social Movement? Activism and Civic Engagement!

Facilitators: Amy Belfer and Sarah Bridges
Sponsoring Student Org: Hall for Change
Tuesdays and Thursdays 5:00pm-6:00pm
Spaces Available:20
Students and young people throughout history have had and continue to have momentous impacts on social movements including the civil rights movement, anti-war movements, LGBTQIA+ rights movements, and various others. This program will examine several social movements where students were influential components of change. We will have several faculty members, student organizations, and community partners share their knowledge and experiences through small group discussion and hands-on activities. We will then explore how students can implement these practices and be involved in service, activism, and civic engagement throughout their time at Elon and beyond.

BTB 023: Immigration through the Borderlands

Facilitator: Amy Belfer
Wednesdays 5:00pm-6:00pm
Spaces Available:20
Many people cross the border from Mexico to the United States to flee violence, persecution or poverty. Many individuals want to improve their lives and the lives of their families. However, crossing the border, even if applying for political asylum, is extremely dangerous. I will share my experiences from working along the border in southern Arizona and Nogales this past summer, and share information about the dangers individuals face in the Arizona desert or in immigration detention (especially the dangers for LGBTQIA individuals or other marginalized groups.) I will share what organizations are doing to support immigrants, and some of the road-blocks they are facing.