Q: (Initially posted on December 6, 2002) FROM MENTEE TAMARA C. IN MA
Dear GEM-SET, My grandfather was an engineer. What are some gift
ideas that I could make for him for the holidays?
What are some colleges around New England that
balance art, athletics, science, and English?

December 9, 2002
A: FROM MENTOR SARA RAMSDELL IN KY
I have seen some really cool things made from used circuit boards- for
example, a clipboard that had a clamp riveted to a piece of circuit board.
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A: FROM MENTOR JOAN LUSK IN RI
My father was an engineer, too, and Christmas shopping for him was
easily accomplished in a hardware store! As his eyes grew dim and
his hands arthritic, he appreciated gadgets that gave good lighting
in hard-to-reach places and screwdrivers with big fat knobs for
handles. You wouldn't _make_ those, though. Maybe you could make a
rack or a box that would organize tools for him? A workman's apron
with pockets for tools?
Part 2: This sounds like you're looking for an all-around liberal arts
college - and there are many in New England. I agree with you that a
balance is vital. You may focus in one direction for a career, but
you can find ways to keep your other interests alive too.