T h e M a g i c B u l l e t

The Official Newspaper of X Files University

THE MOVIE HITS THEATERS

Special "FTF" supplement | XFU Reviews | XFU FAQ | Various Reviews | Faculty Profile |

XFU in the News
gathered from the XFU Web site

Official Italian X-Files Magazine (May 1998)
*thanks to Monica for translating this for us*

THIS MONTH'S BEST WEB SITE
During our research on the net, we have found a really interesting site, intelligent for both the idea it develops and for its look and realization: the X-Files University.

Like all the real universities, this one has its own motto in Latin, written in its emblem [there is a picture of the round logo, the yellow one, with little portait of Mulder and Scully]: Veritas est ibi foris, that is The truth is out there, then you can also find other Latin inscription like Nemini Confidimini and Omnia Negate that mean Trust No One and Deny Everything (in Italian Nonfidarti di nessuno e Nega Ogni Cosa).

XFU is introduced by the teachers as the first university about the X-Files on the Internet and was founded to let all the Philes show their culture and knowledge on the subject. So those who spent nights watching an X-Files episode to know everything about the show can now get a degree in "X-Files-ology". It's possible to follow many different courses, asking help from "veterans" just like in a real American campus.

There are three different kinds of degrees you can get:
1) Academic First Grade, writing a thesis on a particular subject;
2) Master, writing a second thesis on the same subject;
3)Doctorate, writing a third thesis on the same subject.
There already are some thesis on the site, on various subjects, in English. The XFU is waiting for new students at: http://shipper.simplenet.com/XFU.htm

The X-Paper (April 25, 1998)
WEB SITE REVIEW
By Peanut01
Edited By Samantha H

I sit in school five days a week listening to lectures on the Pythagorean theorem and the basis behind plate-tectonics. What do I wish I was doing? Watching X-Files. Don't we all? Not that I'm a bad student or anything. I'm a straight A student but that doesn't mean I like doing the work. Now wouldn't it be fun if you could take a course on your favorite TV show? Not only would I pass with flying colors, I'd have a great amount of fun! Wouldn't you if one period of the day was just nitpicking and philosophizing about the X-Files???
Samantha's note: I feel that way too! :)

Well since we know that isn't gonna happen anytime soon, maybe we should do a little extracurricular learning. Gee, I feel cool using all these big words today :) Anyway I'm not saying go to your local high school and form an X-Files worshippers club. What I am saying is that you should enroll in a new school online called The X-Files University. I adore this site. I cannot verbalize just how wonderful it is! And guess what? The site has been up only since April 10, 1998. As I sit here writing this, the date is now April 19, 1998. This site has been up for LESS than two weeks! And never in the past year of reviewing X-Files Web sites have I seen a site that is as creative or as well organized as this site in such a short amount of time. I am truly amazed!

So since this site is as great as it is , let me be the first to give you a tour of the campus. First off, XFU is a place to further your education of The X-Files. And who wouldn't want to do that??? To do so, you must first become a student and earn a degree. You can earn three types of degrees, all of which you must write theses for. But before we get into that, you're probably wondering what the heck your thesis would be about. Here we go! You can write a thesis on a number of topics! There's everything here from The College of Dana Scully, in which you have to prove your knowledge of the character, to Relationshipper studies, to Fanfiction, to the study of Platonic Relationships. Anything and everything you can imagine about the X-Files and more is available as a course! It's just a brilliant idea! Genius! To start off you should probably check out the Thesis and Conduct Guidelines. There are also a list of Faculty advisors that can help you if you are confused.

There is a wonderful student center to get you started, a mailing list for students and faculty, an IRC chatroom that holds classes and lectures, a gallery which features students' artwork, trivia to test your knowledge of the greatness that is "X", and downloadable wavs and videos.

Then there's the Dean's List that features the best of the students' works. All in all, this site is absolutely wonderful! I love it. And I don't mean to be pushy or anything, but if you guys don't visit this site, I'll send the Flukemonster after you!!!!!!!!!! Visit now at http://shipper.simplenet.com/XFU.htm
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The X-Files University Frequently Asked Questions
By Rebecca Bateman

Q. What is The X-Files University?
A. The X-Files University, or XFU (http://shipper.simplenet.com/XFU.htm) is our attempt to offer all on-line fans of "The X-Files" an opportunity to take their love of the show to a whole new level. Although we do not offer "real" university degrees, the amount of work and talent represented by our archives may one day stand as a testament to the greatness that is "The X-Files." Chris Carter's creation is not just a television show but a phenomenon.

Our students, guided by our knowledgeable faculty, are required to submit theses and essays to "earn" bachelors, masters and doctoratal degrees. (More on this later.) All qualified essays are displayed at our Dean's List archives. These archives will be a valuable resource for X-Philes in terms of research, entertainment, and knowledge.

Q. Is the XFU an actual, accredited university? If so, how much is tuition?
A. The XFU is not an accredited university. We were established for entertainment purposes only and charge absolutely nothing for being involved. There is no money changing hands. Period. However, as you will soon discover, we still take our duties and responsibilities seriously.

Q. How old do I have to be to join the XFU?
A. There is no age limit at the XFU. Any one of any age can become involved.

Q. Is the XFU officially associated with "The X-Files" or Fox?
A. No. No one with the XFU is in any way associated with "The X-Files," Ten-Thirteen Productions, or Twentieth Century Fox. We mean no copyright infringement or disrespect. In fact, just the opposite. We love the show to death. That's why we're here!

Q. How is the XFU set up? Who's in charge of what? What's the difference between a dean and a department head?
A. The XFU is divided into various schools or colleges (e.g., The School of Fanfic General Studies or the College of Fox Mulder). Each school/college is headed by a dean. Many schools have further divisions called departments (e.g., The Langly Studies Department within the College of the Lone Gunmen). Each of these is controlled by a department head. Though the department head has a great deal of authority over his/her department, the dean has final say over the school and the students within it.

Q. Who are the head honchos at the XFU?
A. Amy Lang ([email protected]) is the president and founder of the XFU. Rebecca Bateman ( [email protected]) is the vice-president. Elizabeth Marin ([email protected]) and Elaine Wong ([email protected]) are the Student Representatives. Jaime Brazil ( [email protected]) are the Faculty Representatives. For a complete listing of XFU faculty, check out the Faculty Profiles page (http://shipper.simplenet.com/staff.htm)

Q. How do I get involved with the XFU?
A. First you must decide how you would like to get involved. While most interested persons decide to enroll only as students at the XFU, it is possible to become a member of the faculty or staff as well.

Q. You mean I can be both a student and a faculty member?
A. Yes.

Q. How much time will either job require on my part, and what will be expected of me as a faculty member?
A. Generally, a faculty/staff position will demand more of your time than that of a student. There is no time constraint for students' work, and they can therefore pace themselves. However, faculty must establish and maintain their schools and departments, be readily available to grade theses, answer students' questions, teach classes if necessary and stay current with XFU policies and events.

Q. I want to become part of the faculty. What do I do?
A. Many deans, department heads, and other faculty members are looking for assistants or department heads. Find an area you're interested in and e-mail the dean of that school. Or, if your subject area is not already an established school, you can create it by e-mailing our president, Amy Lang ([email protected]).

Q. How do I find out what subject areas are available?
A. By checking out our course catalogue: http://shipper.simplenet.com/course.htm

Q. What if I don't want to head up a school/department but I have an idea for a new XFU program or resource?
A. Great! E-mail either our president Amy Lang ([email protected]) or our vice-president Rebecca Bateman ([email protected]). Either one of these ladies can help you out.

Q. I want to enroll as a student. What do I do?
A. First, visit our course catalogue (http://shipper.simplenet.com/course.htm) and decide which area of study interests you the most. You may want to visit some of the various Web pages devoted to each area or e-mail the deans or department heads for more information. Once you've determined what you want to study, find out how to enroll in that particular school. While many schools have form applications on their Web pages, the majority of enrollment takes place through e-mail. If you're unsure as of how to enroll, just e-mail anyone associated with that school. They will be happy to help you.

Q. I've read up on various schools and emailed several deans for help, but I still can't decide what school my interests would be best suited for. Help!
A. The XFU is proud to have a great resource for help in these matters, the Learning Assistance Center (http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Rampart/5638/xfu_lac.html). They can help you decide where you belong and how to get there.

Q. I'm just confused about the whole enrollment process in general. Who can I talk to?
A. Contact Angela, our registrar [email protected].She can help get you acquainted with the XFU and get you started in the right direction.

Q. Once I enroll, what then?
A. Each school has unique requirements for its students. You need to talk to your dean or department head for specific departmental policies. However, as a general rule, you are required to write at least one thesis on your desired topic in order to earn a degree.

Q. What exactly constitutes a thesis?
A. A thesis is an essay, written in good taste, that intelligently discusses the topic in depth. The quality of the essay should be comparable to at least the caliber of a senior in high school. The length is determined by the individual deans. However, some schools don't require and essay, per se, to get a degree. For example, the School of Fanfic General Studies allows students to write an "X-Files" story, and the College of Art asks for artwork. Once again, refer to your specific school or department for definitive thesis guidelines.

Q. My school requires a thesis of length 10K. How long is that?
A. That's around 1000 words, more or less.

Q. How much time do I have to write my thesis?
A. As much as you need. While most deans and department heads would prefer you not neglect your writing, it is a good idea to take your time to create the best possible scholarly work.

Q. Where do I submit my thesis, and who is responsible for grading my work and determining if I get the degree?
A. Your dean or department head has final discretion over the validity of your work. Submit theses to him/her.

Q. Can I submit work for degree consideration that's already been archived somewhere else? Correspondingly, can I archive it somewhere else after I've submitted it for degree consideration at the XFU?
A. The short answer to both questions is yes. The long answer is as follows. Check your school's guidelines. Some department heads prefer a completely new work be submitted, while others take it on a case-by-case scenario. Still others don't care one way or the other as long as it's the student's original creation and it meets the degree requirements. As for archiving an XFU thesis somewhere else, that general ly acceptable as long as it is done by the work's original author. However, once again, consult school and department guidelines on this issue.

Q. What should I write my thesis about? I'm confused about an episode. Is there any place I can get help with my writing?
A. Your first stop on the road to thesis writing is your dean or department head. Talking to them can be a great help when deciding what to write about or how to write it. However, the Learning Assistance Center (http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Rampart/5638/xfu_lac.html) is a wonderful resource for students needing help understanding the MythArc, looking up references, interpreting an episode or even proofreading a thesis. Give them a holler. They'd be more than happy to help.

Q. How many theses do I have to write?
A. At least one. You may write more depending on what kind of degree you wish to earn and the specific requirements of your school.

Q. What sorts of degrees are available?
A. There are three main degrees available at our university: bachelors (first level), masters (second level), and doctorate (highest level). The requirements for earning these degrees differ from school to school. Consult your specific dean or department head for more information.

Q. Can I major in one subject and minor in another? Can I earn multiple degrees in different subject areas?
A. Yes. Most schools allow for students to earn a major and/or minor in their department. Contact your dean/department head for specific requirements. You can also earn as many degree s as you like in as many schools as you like. You may also work on them simultaneously if so desired. However, you must apply separately to each school you intend to graduate from and you must start at a first level degree in each. Once you have fulfilled the bachelors degree requirements in a school, you may work on higher level degrees from the same school.

Q. What if I want to switch schools or departments or leave the XFU entirely?
A. To switch, you must notify the dean of your current school and apply at the new school you intend to join. If for some reason, you need to leave the XFU entirely, just let your dean or department head know of your plans.

Q. I can't get hold of my dean or department head. I have tried for over two weeks with no response. What do I do?
A. If you have not heard a response within two weeks from your department head, then e-mail the dean of your school. If you still do not receive a response, please e-mail President Amy Lang ([email protected]) or Vice-President Rebecca Bateman ([email protected]).

Q. Where do I send comments, complaints, or suggestions?
A. The place to send feedback depends on what level the feedback is for. Suggestions for your department should be sent to your department head. Suggestions for your school should be sent to your dean. Suggestions for the entire university can be sent to either Amy Lang ([email protected]) or Rebecca Bateman ([email protected]).

Q. Is there a way for me to discuss administrative issues with other XFU faculty and students? How can I stay current with University events and happenings?
A. Through the XFU mailing list and message board. Both are designed for announcements, feedback and discussion of administrative topics. There is information on subscription to the mailing list at the List Details page (http://shipper.simplenet.com/XFU/List.htm). The message board can be accessed here: http://www.insidetheweb.com/messageboard/mbs.cgi/mb64969.

Q. There's a university issue on which I would like to share my thoughts. Who votes on these things, and how can I give my opinion?
A. The XFU Board of Directors vote on university policy. If you wish to share your thoughts or feel that you are not being treated fairly, speak to your representative. Elizabeth Marin ([email protected]) and Elaine Wong ([email protected]) are the Student Representatives. Jaime Brazil ([email protected]) are the Faculty Representatives.

Q. Does the XFU offer any classes? If so, how do I take them? A. Some of our schools choose to teach classes through Internet Relay Chat or IRC (http://members.tripod.com/~SisReade/irc.html). Some instructors teach class via e-mail or on their Web pages. Each department is different, and as always, contact specific deans or department heads for further details.

Q. What's the XFU IRC channel?
A. Channels: #XFU on CastleNet - for classes and #XFU_THE BASEMENT on CastleNet - for general chat. Server: user.xtdl.com

Q. What if I don't have an IRC client?
A. Visit our Student Center (http://shipper.simplenet.com/XFU/center.htm) for information how to download the mIRC client. Or you can access the channel through Talk City. Details are on Reade's IRC info page (http://members.tripod.com/~SisReade/irc.html).

Q. I missed one of my IRC classes. What should I do?
A. Don't panic. The XFU keeps a transcript of the IRC classes in the Class Notes section (http://members.tripod.com/~SisReade/transcripts.html).

Q. What are those funny words in the XFU seal?
A. "Veritas Est Ibi Foris" - Latin for "The Truth Is Out There". It's our university's motto.

Q. Besides watching "The X-Files," what do XFU students and faculty do for fun?
A. All sorts of things. Swing by our Student Center (http://shipper.simplenet.com/XFU/center.htm) to check out our downloads, art gallery, trivia, fanfic library, school newspaper and more.

Q. I really like all those fun things to do at the Student Center. How can I contribute?
A. Email Amy ([email protected]). She's in charge of it all.

Q. How do I find out more about the school newspaper?
A. Darcie ([email protected]) is the Editor-In-Chief of the university newspaper, The Magic Bullet (http://www.fortunecity.com/roswell/chupacabras/107/index.html). E-mail her or visit the page for details.

Q. I'd like to be in the XFU yearbook. Where do I get more information?
A. Reade ([email protected]) has created our XFU yearbook here: http://www.geocities.com/CollegePark/Lab/5696/.Visit the page or e-mail her for details.

Q. Are there any banners or buttons I can use to link my Web page to the XFU?
A. Yup. There are several available in the Student Center (http://shipper.simplenet.com/XFU/center.htm).

Q. Is this the end of the FAQ? I have a question you didn't address! What now?
A. Well, if the question pertains to your specific school, email your dean or department head. They are always your best bet for help. However, if it's more a general question, feel free to e-mail President Amy Lang ([email protected]), Vice-President Rebecca Bateman ([email protected]), Registrar Angela ([email protected]), or any of the representatives or faculty (http://shipper.simplenet.com/staff.htm).

Thank you, and I hope you found this FAQ useful.

~Veritas est ibi foris~

Credits:
Thanks to the various XFU faculty members who gave suggestions for this FAQ, especially Amy Lang. Inquiries about this FAQ should be directed to Rebecca Bateman
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Amy's Web Page Picks
Picked by our esteemed President, Amy Lang. To nominate a site for Amy's Pick, e-mail her with the title and URL. The site MUST be maintained by an XFU student or faculty member.

The Lone Gunmen Estrogen Brigade:http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Rampart/7913

XFU Dana Scully Studies: http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Hollow/1087/index.html

Root Beer Boycotters/Iced Tea Worshippers: http://members.tripod.com/~Jaina_2/index.html
AND
Mulder/Scully Relationship in Sarah McLachlan Association: http://members.tripod.com/~KudzuWolf/index.html

Bisky and Verbal's Shipper Haven: http://www.geocities.com/TelevisionCity/Set/5508/
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Book Review
submitted by Jenna

X-Files: Beyond Mulder and Scully
At last, an X-Files book that tells you about ALL of the show's incredible actors! While the storylines of The X-Files engage viewers, it is the actors who truly bring the show to life. And while David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson are terrific, they don't carry the series by themsleves . They're not the ones who swim through sewage in a rubber Flukeman outfit, or wear prosthetic limbs, or fight off rapes by invisible lovers, or get a charge from lightning bolt-throwing friends. Giving The X-Files its mysterious quality and eerie edge week after week are its wonderful character actors, many of whom look familiar but have not become household names - even though they've appeared in scores of movies and television shows and most viewers have seen them dozens of times.

This "it's-about-time" book provides in-depth profiles (and exhaustive credit lists) for the actors who play the secretive men called

• Deep Throat (Jerry Hardin)
• Mr. X (Steven Williams)
• Cigarette-Smoking Man (William B. Davis)
• Agent Krycek (Nicholas Lea)
• and The Lone Gunmen (Tom Braidwood, Dean Haglund, Bruce Harwood)

To order this book, go to http://www.Mania.com/store/browse/sku.asp?x_sku=DL.XFBMS.
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XFU Faculty Profile
by Amy Lang

Meg, Dean of the College of Alex Krycek
How do you solve a problem like Meg? Hmmmmmm? Clearly Meg dances to her own tune, and luckily the Faculty of XFU are allowed to witness the flair with which she dances. Meg oversees the College of Alex Krycek and we've never had a more ardent supporter of our favorite One-Armed Man as Meg. She also runs the tremendous page: Lair of the Rat: http://www.mindspring.com/~megadee/lair.htm and is the Keeper of the Nicholas Lea Estrogen Brigade http://www.meer.net/~walterh/nleb/. Meg took a few moments from her busy schedule to answer a few questions for our amusement. Let's take a moment to meet her, shall we?

(Oh and by the way, any and all psychiatric referrals can be sent to her directly at: [email protected]).

Q. Which Brady Bunch child did you most identify with? Why?
A. Sparky, the insane daughter they kept locked in the basement. I felt her pain.

Q. What do you think was Krycek's favorite food as a child?
A. Mashed carrots with a little catsup.

Q. What is your favorite old joke that always makes you laugh out loud? A. What did the man say when he walked into the bar?

Ow.

Q. Name your three favorite books of all time.
A. Um, the Sideways Stories series, my Entertainment Weeklies and Spot Goes To Town.

Q. Did you ever have a nickname?
A. Yes. And it was a horrid, horrid thing, and I sent it back to the kitchen. Then the chef came out and we had a huge argument and he spit on my food. And I beat him up.

Q. When you went trick or treating, what candy would you *always* eat first when you got home?
A. The pennies that one neighbor handed out. They were hard.

Q. Who is your favorite X-Files guest star (other than Nicholas Lea) and why?
A. The pencils Mulder threw at the ceiling.

Q. What is the funniest thing you've ever done when out with friends?
A. Uh...um...uhgh...this is getting rather PERSONAL, innit? I mean, what, do you expect me to tell you about the time we dressed as giant chickens and advertised ourselves as having great legs? No WAY!

Q. Would you ever want to be on the cast of The Real World or Road Rules? WHY?
A.Uh, well, maybe Road Rules, 'cause they get to skydive and junk. And I bet I could tick some people off.

Q. What country have you always wanted to visit?
A.New York City.