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Sound bites

Voices editor Ajay Singh recently asked cheerful-looking individuals on campus why they were feeling happy. (People chattering animatedly on cell phones did not qualify.)

Diana Meekay, third-year biology major

A: I always smile. It’s my trademark. But I’m smiling today because I have just finished my finals in the Armenian language. I’m so relieved it’s over because I have to say I’m not one of the best students in class.

Aminah Ofumbi, first-year business economics major

A: I’m just having a nice time. It’s so beautiful here, and it’s such a lovely day. I’m enjoying the scenery. I’m also about to go shopping with my cousin. Shopping is always fun. Oh, here comes the bus.

Allen Forero, elevator mechanic (left), and Harrison Vergas, custodian, both of Facilities Management

A: We just said hi to each other. We’re from Colombia, you know, and we have a lot of things to smile about. Colombia is a beautiful country. And you know what? Colombians are the happiest people
in Latin America. ... Colombians and Brazilians. You could say we’re poor but happy.

Peter Wollen, professor of theater, film and television

A: I just heard a funny anecdote about Bob Geldof. Apparently, scalpers got a hold of tickets to his (Live 8) charity concert (scheduled to begin July 2). It’s always amusing when things start going the other way for people who are extremely wealthy or have successful careers. What’s the word for it — schadenfreude?

—A.J.