Finnegan Thompson ’26
EE Advice Columnist
Q. Who inspires your superb fashion sense? -Anonymous junior
A. I acquired my rather unique and eclectic sense of fashion from a myriad of sources. If I were to choose a person that inspired me most, I would have to say that my brother, Oliver, greatly influenced me to pursue the style fads of the 1970s and 1980s. I also follow many people on social media that are of a similar mindset. By 2026 standards, yes, my style certainly is considered “dated” and “weird” by most, and I agree that I am not exactly the pinnacle of male fashion. Despite this, I don’t feel weird at all being the one of the only people among my peers that is willing to be so fringe with my aesthetic choices in clothing. It certainly can be difficult to find your personal style and even harder to find pieces that you truly resonate with and that make you feel your best. As I am sure you are wondering, I acquired most of my wardrobe through Goodwill. Though thrifting can be tough, especially nowadays with fast fashion ruling the game, it is also a very rewarding experience. All of my favorite clothes are thrifted and I can also take comfort in the fact that I am giving some very nice one-of-a-kind pieces a new life through me. I encourage you to do the same if you can.
Q. I have a question regarding the school lavatory. For context, I have been inconvenienced by hooligans while making use of the facilities in your highly ranked bathroom “closest to the hydration hallway”, but primarily and unsurprisingly in your lastly ranked locker room bathroom. How would you recommend crossing this bridge the next time I must cross it? -Anonymous senior
A. This is a problem that I, and I’m sure many of our peers, are faced with on a semi-regular basis. I have found that the best way to avoid this is to try and steer clear of the bathrooms during passing periods and lunch periods. These times see the most foot traffic in and out of the bathrooms due to the fact that more pupils are in the hallways and not in classrooms. If you do this and still have a problem, I would recommend talking to an adult in the building (security guards, teachers, house principals or whathaveyou) and voicing your grievances. As I stated previously, if both you and I have this problem, it is far more than likely that others do as well. Your self-advocacy could go a long way in solving this profoundly prevalent predicament.
Q. Hi! I saw your poster in the hallway and wanted to ask you a question. I wanted to know what you think is the best way to combat the stress of just kind of existing. You know how sometimes you just feel sad for no reason, and of course there is a network of reasons but it is manifesting in a way that the reason for stress isn’t really in your control, so you cannot address the problem. What would you recommend are some good things to do when you’re feeling that looming sense of dread, but don’t know how to get rid of it? Thanks. (btw I think this whole advice column thing is really cool). -Anonymous junior
A. First of all, I am very glad that my advertising efforts have not been in vain! I also must say that you have a fine taste in newspaper columns. In all seriousness, however, the first step in solving a problem is admitting that there is one, which you have already done. You have already started yourself on the path to success. Winter can be a very gloomy and depressing time of year, especially with this frigid weather recently. Whenever I’m feeling blue, I like to talk to the people I love most. People such as my grandmother, sister, or other members of my family are a good start for me. For you, this may look different. Talking to a family member, close friend, or even a teacher or other trusted adult can really go a long way in making you feel less glum. We are social creatures and I always feel better for having vented my troubles to someone who makes me feel safe and valued. In addition to this (or instead of this if you can’t talk to anybody), I also enjoy partaking in one of my hobbies to lift my spirits and make me feel productive. I like to crochet, skateboard, read, listen to music, and watch old television shows or movies. If none of these are your jam, try seeking out other hobbies. There is nothing you can’t learn on the internet or join a club for! Try these strategies out and see how they work. If, however, things get worse, I must heavily emphasize the importance of staying strong and keeping things in perspective. This phase that you are in, no matter how bad it may seem, is ultimately temporary and with the right amount of determination and willpower, I know you can get through it. On this note, please keep in mind that self-harm is never the answer. If these feelings ever manifest themselves, which I hope they never do, don’t hesitate to call either 988 (National Suicide Prevention Hotline) or 911. Each and every staff member in the school can also help you with this. Your question has been one of the best I have gotten so far and helping people in your situation is the exact reason I created this column. I feel that many of our peers are able to resonate with your sentiments. Stay strong and remember that you can’t always control what happens to you, but that you can always control your response. I wish you all the best in overcoming your tribulations. I hope this helps!