Here in the real world

It often feels like Duke is a long way from the brutish realities of The Grown-up World.

The two of us are seniors, and like it or not, we're gearing up for the scary step out of the Wonderland. You probably are, too. No matter what you'll do or where you go-TV associate editor and senior Daniel Riley's piece suggests it's most likely going to be the Big Apple- chances are you'll be ready, even if you don't feel that way.

Regular columnist Alex Fanaroff, a first-year med student, argues that participating in service learning and elaborate outreach programs while at Duke prepares us for a life we may not think we're headed toward. And TV associate editor John Taddei, a senior, toyed with a simulation computer program that Army ROTC uses to evoke being on the ground in Iraq. Despite appearances, those who play it are more than aware of the game's gravity-one they may have to face themselves after graduation.

(Considering Taddei accidentally blew himself up several times while playing the game, we're very glad he's not enlisting.)

Our cover story explores one surprising area where the Duke experience might be sub-par in future prep-greek facilities. At Duke and eight miles down the road in Chapel Hill, interviewees report that living with a group can better support the kind of quality relationship-building and moral education that's not found in Curriculum 2000.

But it's not all about prepping for the road ahead-education is a journey, not a destination, remember?! Enjoy your time here, whether you've got four years or just a few months left like us. Sniff, sniff.

Happy tailgate season!