Arcata, Calif. Arcata isn't on any map. I want to stress that it's true Northern California, unlike San Francisco, which is five hours south of me. People don't know how big California really is. I miss the Redwoods, scenic ocean and the Pacific Northwest's carefree way of life.
What is the story behind your name?
I think my parents just liked the sound of "Chris." According to Wikipedia, "Christopher" is English for the Greek "Christóphoros," or "Christ-bearer." Millennia ago, Saint Christopher, before the Pope decided he didn't exist, carried baby Jesus across a river. In Roman times, it was believed that people named Christopher foresaw events in their dreams. McConkey's Irish.
How did you learn about Amherst? Why did you decide to come to the College?
I learned about Amherst College through the QuestBridge Program. QuestBridge connects financially disadvantaged, highly motivated students with affordable college experiences. I credit my college experience to Anthony Marx, who started QuestBridge at Amherst. Without him I'd be elsewhere.
Describe your personal fashion style.
Gorgeous. I opt for tight shirts and army haircuts. No, I wear what's comfortable. But I always get haircuts every four weeks (it's in my planner).
What do you remember about your first-year orientation experience?
Not knowing the day or time. The experience disoriented me so I lapsed into a time warp lasting a month before starting class. It was an exciting month.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
My dad ran a grocery store (now he works at one), so I wanted to own a liquor store. But first, I wanted to be President.
You're an RC for the first-years in Stearns. Did you look up any of your residents (say, on Facebook) before they came?
Uhhh, maybe ... no comment.
What advice would you like to give to your residents (and to any other first-years)?
Get involved with other students right away-not scandalously, but get to know each other, size one another up and try to make friends soon. It takes effort. Making friends now makes college great. Unfortunately, people fall into groups of friends and stay there. Not being in a group is hard. Take advantage of the first weeks and meet one another.
What is the weirdest food you have ever tried?
Cheese fondue laced with wine sauce. I don't want to think about it.
What do you want your last noise to be?
Laughter. People laugh when they realize they're deluded or when they're on top. I like being humbled and victorious.
Define "Chuck Norris."
How old is he? Is he dead?
What is the best concert or live event you've ever attended?
Amherst College Orchestra's Mozart's "Requiem." Then a speech by Ralph Nader.
Is there anything that you would change about yourself?
If I could change anything about me, I would stop myself from having useless, selfish impulses. And I wish I could do martial arts like Neo in "The Matrix" (the first movie, when he's vulnerable and cool, not the other movies when he's omnipotent and boring).
What is your favorite TV show?
"Family Guy" because it appeals to the nonsense side of me. I relate to Brian; everyone around me is insane, but I play along like nothing's wrong.
Which class are you most excited about for the upcoming semester?
Global Resource Politics. I like international relations which I think this class is about. Global Resource Politics also promises to be heavily focused and discussion based ... Amherst candy.