We see them everywhere. They are deeply intertwined with our everyday culture, habits, routines, and decisions. They condemn our personal interests and passions, they taint our self-confidence, and they’re inevitably present in the world. Gender norms. They smolder the raw and authentic beauty in amazing people. Gender norms are expectations and standards that convey certain…
How Jealousy Affects Relationships and How to Handle It
If there is one thing in the world that we can’t control, it’s our feelings. We’re all prone to the power of our innermost emotions, and the results they stir up can either leave you on cloud nine or completely crush you to the ground. While different emotions have different impact on our lives, many…
Why Living Differently from Expectations is Okay
There are many layers of social expectations that seem to be engraved into our minds, one of which outlines the way our lives should be progressing. Certain standards lay out a paved path for us, demanding that we must complete certain occasions at certain points of our lives. We are expected to start our first…
How to Maintain Friendships in the Summer
Ah, yes. Summer. The perfect season for those comfort-seeking, freedom-loving individuals. With its clear skies, warm temperatures, and liberating opportunities, summer truly is an exciting period of time, one that is often highly anticipated throughout the year. Not only do students crave the relaxation of those homework-free months, but many people also see this season…
The LGBTQ Community in Our Modern World
If you haven’t been living under a rock these days, you’ve probably heard the big news by now: The United States has finally decided to legalize same-sex marriage in the entire country! Woohoo! About time, America! This is a huge, absolutely ground-shaking event. It’s quite literally history in the making, and we’re living it. We’re…
Misconceptions about Music Today
How many times have you heard someone make a comment along the lines of, “That’s not real music”? Statements like this are usually directed with disgust toward modern artists, whether they’re major pop sensations like Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber, rappers, or heavy metal bands that take a more aggressive approach. Whenever I hear such…
Ways To Find Your Place In College
The transition between high school and college life is one of the toughest experiences a student has to go through. It not only feels like the start of a new chapter in life, but also the beginning of an entirely new book. So much has to be left behind. The people you’ve gotten to know…
The Beauty of Online Friendships
We’ve all been told from a young age that we should be careful on the internet. The majority of us were likely taught at some point about the dangers of interacting with strangers online and sharing information with those we meet over social media. Despite the warnings that are often given on the subject, internet…
Dealing With the Struggles of Peer Pressure
“Come on, just this once.” “Don’t worry, it’s no big deal.” “Give it a go, we’ve all done it.” Whether we realize it or not, many of our everyday decisions are influenced by our surroundings, especially by the people around us. The desire to obtain other people’s approval makes it almost too easy to subconsciously…
Overbearing Parents – Just How Far is Too Far?
Take several rebellious adolescents who are eager to expand their freedom. Throw in a handful of parents who are likely confused and anxious about their children’s safety. The result? A large supply of tension and frustration. There is a very delicate line between reasonable and extreme measures, one that is often easily blurred when it…