We were all kids once. We are still the same people we were back then, no matter how much our personalities, capabilities, and preferences have changed.

I think we are more practiced in rejecting misogynistic interpretations of female characters than in rejecting misogynistic characters disguised as endearing, attractive love interests.

Though many students are aware of how public high schools train them to become obedient 9-5 workers with limited creativity and personal opinion, I don’t think enough people notice this aspect of suppression. It stood out to me because I always felt like something was wrong, and I became combative without fully understanding why: I had to ignore an author’s endorsement of systemic and interpersonal discrimination and focus my analysis on textual elements. 

Saying goodbye to gossip isn’t quick or easy. I have to decide what is unnecessary drama or rumors and what is essential, insightful information to share with my friends.

The first time we ever spoke verbally, we were terrified of disappointing each other’s expectations and shattering the illusion of a great match. I downplayed my sensitivities and she downplayed her proclivities towards loud activities, bright lights, and coming home late from parties or the studio.

Maybe people aren’t planning to vote for Kamala in November just because Charli XCX mentioned her once, but at what point could someone’s political world become so saturated with celebrity culture, Instagram posts, and TikTok trends that it’s hardly based on the actual campaign anymore?