View source for Keep calm and join a fandom

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| publication = The Herald (Arkansas State University)
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| date = 2014-04-03
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| language = English
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When classes become too much and that retail job too demanding, take a break from reality and step into a world where a 900-year-old mad man travels through time in a blue box. Or, visit a land where winter is coming, or jump into a ‘67 Impala to take a road trip in search of the paranormal.

What a simple life these fandoms lead.

Fandoms are large groups of people who share the same interest in a book, movie or other form of entertainment. Some fall into the culture quite by accident. They plan to watch “just a few episodes” and before they know it, it’s 3 a.m. and they are on Tumblr reblogging any and all photos of their OTP’s (one true pairing’s) first kiss, from every possible angle. Others know exactly what they are doing and are pros at this lifestyle. They are the ones who have somehow figured out how to watch five seasons in two days. It’s a dangerous and life consuming habit, but being in a fandom can be exhilarating and freeing.

It’s become a form of pop culture and walking into Hot Topic makes it clear how trendy some of these shows have become. For those interested in joining a fandom to escape school, here’s a crash course into two of the most popular shows ruining people’s lives.

Doctor Who recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, which can be a bit daunting for those wanting to jump in with the show. Some episodes from the classic Who era (before the relaunch in 2005) were also destroyed by the BBC in the ‘60s and ‘70s according to blastr.com. So where is the best place to start watching the Time Lord on his adventures through space as he defeats alien races who cause trouble in the universe?

According to Sydney Hill, a junior pre-law major of Lamar, it’s better to begin with the ninth doctor in the 2005 relaunch.

“The first two episodes might be a bit slow, but hang in there,” she said. “Once you’re hooked, there’s no going back.”

The Doctor travels with companions in his TARDIS (Time And Relative Dimensions In Space), which is a blue police box that is bigger on the inside.

Time is not a linear progression, but instead a “big ball of wibbly wobbly, timey wimey stuff,” according to the Doctor.

Be very afraid of the Daleks and Cybermen, who are alien races out to destroy the Doctor and humankind.

The Doctor was part of the Time War that occurred on his home planet, Gallifrey. The Time Lords were at war with the Daleks, and the battle caused the deaths of millions throughout the universe.

After last season, the Doctor now has had 12 faces (and personalities). Each body has a time limit before he changes into someone new. If you think you can handle his regenerations, you’re completely wrong. Grab the tissues for those episodes.
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