Photo courtesy of NYU Abu Dhabi Athletics
Exclusive Interview with the NYUAD Falcon
An elusive character showed up at NYU Abu Dhabi last week and has since been spotted around campus at sports games, in the Convenience Store and with ...
Clare Hennig
,- and
Megan Eloise
Nov 14, 2015
An elusive character showed up at NYU Abu Dhabi last week and has since been spotted around campus at sports games, in the Convenience Store and with Vice Chancellor Al Bloom. Who is this fuzzy, oversized falcon with big eyes and a perplexed expression? Where did it come from? What does it want? Where does it live?
The Falcon granted The Gazelle an exclusive interview to answer these questions and more, submitted by NYUAD students.
Who are you? Tell us about your story and your background.
I am originally from Canada and flew to Abu Dhabi in August of 2015. Although I don’t mind cold weather, I am a desert falcon and this feels like home to me.
What do you do during your free time?
Like most falcons, I hunt for prey. A bird's got to eat. I also really enjoy my quiet time.
What did you do before you became our mascot?
I was a pile of material. I’ve been recycled.
Do you live in NYUAD-provided nesting or off campus? Are you exempt from rules such as quiet hours, RA patrolling and guest policy?
I have my own special roost that was provided by the Athletics Department. I don’t make much noise, as you may have noticed, so quiet hours aren’t a problem. When I’m out on the courts or the fields, I like to give 100 percent of my energy so in my downtime I’m usually resting quietly.
Do you lay eggs?
I don’t think so.
Who would triumph in a fight to the finish with the NYU New York Bobcat?
I would prefer a debate. And even then, I’m not sure. The Bobcat is very knowledgeable. It would be a good match though.
Do you support minority sports like squash? Or just intercollegiate ones like football and basketball?
I support NYUAD. You’ll primarily see me on the courts for our intercollegiate matches. That’s also because I don’t fit in the squash courtdoors. Have you seen the size of my head? But I can’t wait to get involved in other activities too, like Community Outreach and events on campus.
Some students are worried that NYUAD's mission might be undermined by importing traditions of U.S. college athletics. What is your opinion on this?
I'm just one more aspect of the multicultural life here.
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