![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
A Girl and her Nerd
Alright...25 pages later, I'm feeling a little sick of Green Day, but at least that paper's mostly done (shy of a few edits). And thanks to the combined efforts of Shannon, Jory, and Christina I managed to come up with an idea for my Nonfiction Essay. It took me 6 hours, but I've managed to get the rough draft done and, of course, I feel the need to share it with all of you. Aren't you glad?
It could be worse. The Green Day paper is staying far, far away from the public eye.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Knowing Your Nerds:
A Guide to Dating the Smarter Side of the Species
nerd
[nurd] –noun Slang
1. An intelligent but single-minded person obsessed with a nonsocial hobby or pursuit: a computer nerd
2. One slavishly devoted to intellectual or academic pursuits
Remember nerds in the 90s? They were the Erkels of yore, complete with suspenders, argyle sweaters and pocket protectors. Intelligent to the point of being socially inept, they were a constant presence in well-rounded teenage sitcoms, and not exactly in the teen-idol sort of way. But in recent years, all it takes is skimming the titles of the top 10 box office hits to realize that nerds have become…well… kinda hot.
It’s a welcome recognition for us girls who’ve always had a soft-spot for those who walk just a little off the beaten path. But just as Erkel oversimplified the pitfalls, those looking for their very own nerd a la Neil Patrick Harris will want to keep a few things in mind before diving in head first.
~~~~~~~~~
Hygiene and Cleanliness
When it comes to stereotypes, this is one classification that varies widely from nerd to nerd. While they’re generally not seen as being the most fashionable or trendy of groups, plenty of them know the value of a shower. Certainly pocket protectors would never have been invented if there wasn’t concern over the integrity of one’s clothing (if not fashion sense).
But, despite the glorification of the geek, some stigmas can’t be entirely swept away. After all, nerds are defined by their obsessions and, depending on how all-consuming those obsessions are, some of the basics tend to get neglected. This can be excusable when it’s the exception, rather than the rule, but when personal neglect becomes a lifestyle, this is a sign of a bigger problem than involved genius.
If your guy can’t take the time to keep themselves clean and at least moderately neat, chances are those aren’t the only details they’ll neglect. Self-care is a sign of respect, both for themselves and for others, and if that’s lacking there’s likely bigger troubles ahead.
Responsibility
When it comes to Hollywood nerds, it isn’t hard to understand why we like them so much. If smart, unassuming, and cuter-than-any-nerd-has-a-right-to-be isn’t enough, these nerds aren’t just sitting around in their mama’s basement. Instead they’re stepping forward to show that brains can stand head-to-head with brawn when it comes to saving the day.
While they’re most likely not saving the world, real life nerds have plenty to share with the world. Talented and smart, they’re capable of great feats if they put their minds to it. There’s little that’s more attractive than someone with both the ability and desire to make a difference, whether it’s searching for the next great medical cure or creating the next big company to rival Microsoft.
Unfortunately, all too often, with great power comes… great laziness. Used to getting things the easy way (intellectually, at least), it’s often tempting for nerds to sit back and let the world pass them by rather than being an active part of it. If they’re choosing video games over job searches or Mom and Dad’s house over finding their own place, the lack of motivation can quickly become irritating. There is very little that’s attractive about sharing a place with the ‘rents past a certain age, especially if the only thing standing in the way of independence is them, themselves.
The Social Element
Whether we like it or not, humans are social creatures. The popularity of sites like Facebook and Twitter and the prevalence of cell phones (and unlimited texting plans), are pretty obvious signs that we want to be connected and kept up-to-date on everything from engagements to who had what for lunch that day. When inviting someone else into your life, part of that merger means meeting each other’s friends and family and seeing how well your two worlds mesh.
With nerds, this meeting of worlds can be both a blessing and a curse. On the plus side, one of the most appealing traits of nerds is how open minded they (and their friends) can be. With nerddom covering such a broad number of interests, fellow enthusiasts are usually welcomed with open arms, so long as they don’t mind being regaled in return. If you’re comfortable with joining in, you’re likely to end up with friends for life. Just avoid taking sides in any fictional character debates. Once the group devolves into an argument of pirates vs. ninjas, there’s no recovering.
Unfortunately, while gatherings of nerds can be a blast for all parties involved, trouble can come when nerds put their groups and games at a higher priority than other social obligations, such as dates, family get-togethers, or responsibilities. When World of Warcraft campaigns, ComiCon weekends and Battlestar Gallactica marathons begin to replace real life, drastic measures might be necessary. While there’s definitely a time and place for enjoying hobbies, it’s gone too far when you find yourself battling video games for your guy’s attention. For the sake of your sanity and the health of your relationship, schedule some time away from the computer, TV, or comic book store and just enjoy each other’s company.
Obsession
Let’s face it. Nerds wouldn’t really be nerds if they didn’t pursue their passions with the same, dogged perseverance as the Trix Rabbit. Whether it’s video games, music, or mint condition Star Wars figurines, any girl planning on spending quality time with a nerd better be ready to exchange banter on their favorite topic for hours on end.
There’s a lot to be appreciated in that kind of enthusiasm. It takes a lot of passion in your subject to memorize the plot and leading actors in every Alfred Hitchcock film ever made, or to be able to detail Batman’s life story through countless alternate universes. Even better, if you can capture their attention, that passion is likely to include you. Attention to detail and an encyclopedic intelligence can make nerds the kind of sensitive romantic that chick-flick enthusiasts only dream about.
Any girl who has braved this experience, however, has learned that there can indeed be too much of a good thing. Being able to quote the entirety of Monty Python’s “Holy Grail” without prompting is cute the first few times… but if it turns out that’s where your nerd’s conversational skills end, you’ll be wishing for more than a flesh wound by the time the first month of the relationship has passed you by. Supporting them and their interests is a must, but if you find yourself cycling through the same few conversations over and over again, it might be time to broaden some horizons… either theirs or yours.
Confidence
Confidence is attractive. Who hasn’t cast a longing glance at the Cassanova with the winning smile and the easy gait? But part of the appeal of the nerd is that stumbling, shy awkwardness that comes from being just slightly unsure, a trait that Hollywood has made more glamorous as gorgeous actors cast puppy-dog glances across the silver screen. However, in real life, social ineptitude can be the kiss of death for a relationship for any number of reasons.
Whether it’s from growing up with the social stigma of “unpopular” hobbies or a case of simple shyness, it can be rather refreshing to meet a guy who doesn’t already thing they’re God’s gift to women. Knowing you’re genuinely appreciated and your attention is valuable can go a long way in any relationship. But this can quickly turn into a hindrance if social awkwardness turns into full blown insecurity.
Moments of self-doubt are one thing, but when you find that you’re constantly having to reaffirm their sense of worth without any change it’s time to abandon ship. That level of shy isn’t nerdy, it’s needy and, before long, you’ll find that you’re giving more than you can afford trying to keep the relationship afloat.
~~~~~~~
Leverage’s cute ‘n nerdy Alec Hardison hits the nail right on the head when he says, “It’s the Age of the Geek, baby!” As more and more TV shows and movies featuring brainy as beautiful, highlighting what many of us girls already knew, it’s easy to idealize the role as never before. But as endearing as nerds can be, a bit of caution is not untoward. Attention to red flags can make the difference between finding your soul mate and a soul sucker.
~~~~~~~~
The conclusion needs work but, all things considered, I don't think this turned out half-bad. Albeit, that could be the lack of sleep talking.
Either way, it'll get cleaned up after class. And, now that it's officially 5am, I'm thinking it's about time I gave bed a shot.
Night, people...
It could be worse. The Green Day paper is staying far, far away from the public eye.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Knowing Your Nerds:
A Guide to Dating the Smarter Side of the Species
nerd
[nurd] –noun Slang
1. An intelligent but single-minded person obsessed with a nonsocial hobby or pursuit: a computer nerd
2. One slavishly devoted to intellectual or academic pursuits
Remember nerds in the 90s? They were the Erkels of yore, complete with suspenders, argyle sweaters and pocket protectors. Intelligent to the point of being socially inept, they were a constant presence in well-rounded teenage sitcoms, and not exactly in the teen-idol sort of way. But in recent years, all it takes is skimming the titles of the top 10 box office hits to realize that nerds have become…well… kinda hot.
It’s a welcome recognition for us girls who’ve always had a soft-spot for those who walk just a little off the beaten path. But just as Erkel oversimplified the pitfalls, those looking for their very own nerd a la Neil Patrick Harris will want to keep a few things in mind before diving in head first.
~~~~~~~~~
Hygiene and Cleanliness
When it comes to stereotypes, this is one classification that varies widely from nerd to nerd. While they’re generally not seen as being the most fashionable or trendy of groups, plenty of them know the value of a shower. Certainly pocket protectors would never have been invented if there wasn’t concern over the integrity of one’s clothing (if not fashion sense).
But, despite the glorification of the geek, some stigmas can’t be entirely swept away. After all, nerds are defined by their obsessions and, depending on how all-consuming those obsessions are, some of the basics tend to get neglected. This can be excusable when it’s the exception, rather than the rule, but when personal neglect becomes a lifestyle, this is a sign of a bigger problem than involved genius.
If your guy can’t take the time to keep themselves clean and at least moderately neat, chances are those aren’t the only details they’ll neglect. Self-care is a sign of respect, both for themselves and for others, and if that’s lacking there’s likely bigger troubles ahead.
Responsibility
When it comes to Hollywood nerds, it isn’t hard to understand why we like them so much. If smart, unassuming, and cuter-than-any-nerd-has-a-right-to-be isn’t enough, these nerds aren’t just sitting around in their mama’s basement. Instead they’re stepping forward to show that brains can stand head-to-head with brawn when it comes to saving the day.
While they’re most likely not saving the world, real life nerds have plenty to share with the world. Talented and smart, they’re capable of great feats if they put their minds to it. There’s little that’s more attractive than someone with both the ability and desire to make a difference, whether it’s searching for the next great medical cure or creating the next big company to rival Microsoft.
Unfortunately, all too often, with great power comes… great laziness. Used to getting things the easy way (intellectually, at least), it’s often tempting for nerds to sit back and let the world pass them by rather than being an active part of it. If they’re choosing video games over job searches or Mom and Dad’s house over finding their own place, the lack of motivation can quickly become irritating. There is very little that’s attractive about sharing a place with the ‘rents past a certain age, especially if the only thing standing in the way of independence is them, themselves.
The Social Element
Whether we like it or not, humans are social creatures. The popularity of sites like Facebook and Twitter and the prevalence of cell phones (and unlimited texting plans), are pretty obvious signs that we want to be connected and kept up-to-date on everything from engagements to who had what for lunch that day. When inviting someone else into your life, part of that merger means meeting each other’s friends and family and seeing how well your two worlds mesh.
With nerds, this meeting of worlds can be both a blessing and a curse. On the plus side, one of the most appealing traits of nerds is how open minded they (and their friends) can be. With nerddom covering such a broad number of interests, fellow enthusiasts are usually welcomed with open arms, so long as they don’t mind being regaled in return. If you’re comfortable with joining in, you’re likely to end up with friends for life. Just avoid taking sides in any fictional character debates. Once the group devolves into an argument of pirates vs. ninjas, there’s no recovering.
Unfortunately, while gatherings of nerds can be a blast for all parties involved, trouble can come when nerds put their groups and games at a higher priority than other social obligations, such as dates, family get-togethers, or responsibilities. When World of Warcraft campaigns, ComiCon weekends and Battlestar Gallactica marathons begin to replace real life, drastic measures might be necessary. While there’s definitely a time and place for enjoying hobbies, it’s gone too far when you find yourself battling video games for your guy’s attention. For the sake of your sanity and the health of your relationship, schedule some time away from the computer, TV, or comic book store and just enjoy each other’s company.
Obsession
Let’s face it. Nerds wouldn’t really be nerds if they didn’t pursue their passions with the same, dogged perseverance as the Trix Rabbit. Whether it’s video games, music, or mint condition Star Wars figurines, any girl planning on spending quality time with a nerd better be ready to exchange banter on their favorite topic for hours on end.
There’s a lot to be appreciated in that kind of enthusiasm. It takes a lot of passion in your subject to memorize the plot and leading actors in every Alfred Hitchcock film ever made, or to be able to detail Batman’s life story through countless alternate universes. Even better, if you can capture their attention, that passion is likely to include you. Attention to detail and an encyclopedic intelligence can make nerds the kind of sensitive romantic that chick-flick enthusiasts only dream about.
Any girl who has braved this experience, however, has learned that there can indeed be too much of a good thing. Being able to quote the entirety of Monty Python’s “Holy Grail” without prompting is cute the first few times… but if it turns out that’s where your nerd’s conversational skills end, you’ll be wishing for more than a flesh wound by the time the first month of the relationship has passed you by. Supporting them and their interests is a must, but if you find yourself cycling through the same few conversations over and over again, it might be time to broaden some horizons… either theirs or yours.
Confidence
Confidence is attractive. Who hasn’t cast a longing glance at the Cassanova with the winning smile and the easy gait? But part of the appeal of the nerd is that stumbling, shy awkwardness that comes from being just slightly unsure, a trait that Hollywood has made more glamorous as gorgeous actors cast puppy-dog glances across the silver screen. However, in real life, social ineptitude can be the kiss of death for a relationship for any number of reasons.
Whether it’s from growing up with the social stigma of “unpopular” hobbies or a case of simple shyness, it can be rather refreshing to meet a guy who doesn’t already thing they’re God’s gift to women. Knowing you’re genuinely appreciated and your attention is valuable can go a long way in any relationship. But this can quickly turn into a hindrance if social awkwardness turns into full blown insecurity.
Moments of self-doubt are one thing, but when you find that you’re constantly having to reaffirm their sense of worth without any change it’s time to abandon ship. That level of shy isn’t nerdy, it’s needy and, before long, you’ll find that you’re giving more than you can afford trying to keep the relationship afloat.
~~~~~~~
Leverage’s cute ‘n nerdy Alec Hardison hits the nail right on the head when he says, “It’s the Age of the Geek, baby!” As more and more TV shows and movies featuring brainy as beautiful, highlighting what many of us girls already knew, it’s easy to idealize the role as never before. But as endearing as nerds can be, a bit of caution is not untoward. Attention to red flags can make the difference between finding your soul mate and a soul sucker.
~~~~~~~~
The conclusion needs work but, all things considered, I don't think this turned out half-bad. Albeit, that could be the lack of sleep talking.
Either way, it'll get cleaned up after class. And, now that it's officially 5am, I'm thinking it's about time I gave bed a shot.
Night, people...