Week three posed more than academic challenges for me, but the kindness of my friends carried me through (and crutches, too).
Chill Monday who?
Monday was an abnormally relaxed day that began with classic cream cheese bagels. For our Communications class, we discussed different types of Asian American representation in the media, and whether or not it was better to have misguided representation or no representation at all. Despite this problem seeming strictly dichotomous (had to Google that one), we agreed that underrepresented groups should not have to settle for only one or the other. But rather, a middle ground can be found where media corporations can achieve more accurate representations of minorities. How? First, start by having a more diverse array of writers in the writer’s room. Companies have the resources.
With no guest speaker on Monday, we had about an hour and a half of independent time, where I was able to hang out with my friends on the sunny patio while making progress and eventually finishing my zine.
Rejection is Just a Step in the Process
Tuesday was an eventful day and we were assigned our final projects for our Communications 101 class. Our group (go Ferrets!) got the first choice on the project type and chose a photo essay. I am grateful that I was paired with three great friends.
Afterward, we had an alumni panel where we got to network with some very insightful AYA alumni. This moment in the week is perhaps one of the most memorable: the panel gave great insight about college rejections, and how those seemingly heartbreaking moments led them to the much better paths they are on now. As someone who struggles frequently with impostor syndrome, not only did I resonate with this discussion, but it was also comforting to hear it reaffirmed that rejection is not the end of the world from another student, and that rejection is a step in the process to whatever you are trying to achieve.
Afterward, we prepared our weekly newscast for Journalism 101, and I got to work with a good friend on a story about Tom Hanks being de-aged for an upcoming movie using artificial intelligence technology. Strange but interesting!
My Unruly Ankle v. the People’s Kindness (Certiorari to The United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit)
There were so many other smaller great things that happened which I could not include here for I would ramble endlessly, but one thing that sticks out to me is everyone’s kindness.
I started week three with a sprained ankle and needed crutches to walk. Although getting from Watt Way to 106 is an exercise in patience, I am so grateful to Karen, Brittany, the professors, and my friends for helping me out with carrying my backpack, food, or helping me store my crutches. Even people that I had not interacted with much offered to help me carry my loaned camera. Even though I have only known everyone in the cohort for three weeks, their help and kindness are something I will always cherish.
I write this coming to the realization that we only have five more days left of AYA. I hope to make the most out of these five days along with my friends and unruly ankle. See you next week!
Communicating Change 