So we're back.

And while we had many things to say about the BASIC conference at Harvard overall, we have to admit we had a fun time. It was nice to get away from the disgusting-ness on campus the last few weeks.

We might not have come back with a great deal more knowledge or awareness than we set off with, but we've certainly come back refreshed. Well, bring it on, Columbia. We're ready for you (and for NYCAASC).

Quote of today - Christina: "Columbia's not that bad," referring to how much more progressive Columbia actually seems to be than the other schools, despite all that's been happening. If we took anything from this weekend, it was an outsider's perspective of what we do have here to work with - an awful lot compared to many, many other environments. For this we're thankful.

OK, more like the Chinatown bus.

Most of the Blaaag staff (though Mar and David are the only consistent Blaaagers...*is ashamed*) will be in Boston this weekend for Boston BASIC. In fact, Christina and Ryan are holding their own NAASCon workshop on Asian American Studies!

Hopefully, when we return, Columbia will still be here.

Beast Coasters, registration for the Boston Asian Students Intercollegiate Conference (BASIC) is now open. The conference itself will be on Saturday, October 13th at Harvard. Good excuse for a road trip, my friends.

Register here.

According to its website, the Boston Asian Students Intercollegiate Conference strives to:

• Unite Asian American college students from all over the Greater Boston area
• Establish a forum for participants to comfortably explore their culture and individuality
• Tackle political, economic, and social issues affecting our communities at both local and national levels
• Celebrate Asian Americans in arts and entertainment
• Develop long-lasting partnerships between students, community activists, and scholars
• Inspire participants to think outside of the box in forging the future of Asian America