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how a little spark can turn into something so much more? Where did you meet your first love?❤️ It’s funny how love sneaks up on you, especially when you’re not looking for it. That’s exactly how it happened with Alex and Emma , two students who met by complete chance in the most unexpected place on campus. Alex first noticed her during finals week in the library. He was supposed to be studying for a huge test, but his focus kept drifting. Across the room, Emma sat alone, her nose buried in a thick novel, completely unaware of the world around her. There was something about her—maybe the way she absentmindedly twirled her hair or how she sipped her coffee with a slight smile—that caught Alex’s attention. For a few days, he tried to "casually" sit nearby, hoping she might notice him. He’d shuffle through his notes, sneaking glances, then look away quickly whenever she looked up. It was like they were both part of some silent game he couldn’t stop playing. Then one day, it happened. Alex was flipping through a book, pretending to be deeply absorbed, when he looked up to find her looking right at him. Caught in the act! His face turned bright red, but to his surprise, Emma just smiled. And in that moment, with a shared laugh and a little courage, he finally went over and said hello. That hello turned into hours of talking, laughter, and shared stories. Alex discovered that Emma had a soft spot for old books, and she laughed when he admitted he’d been too nervous to talk to her at first. From that day on, the library became their spot. They’d meet up between classes, studying or just chatting over coffee, each day bringing them closer. Now, looking back, Alex says, “Sometimes, the best love stories start with a simple hello. You just have to find the courage to take that first step.” Read also : My First Year Experience: A Student’s Journey

The views in this article are my own and don’t reflect those of Daddycampus. This post is written by a guest student writer. Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a freshman at Maplewood University, and I’d like to share my story of starting college, particularly about a program that really helped me settle in here: the First Year Experience Program (FYE). If you’re nervous about college life like I was, maybe my story will give you a little more confidence. Before classes even started, I received an email about an orientation week that was part of the FYE program. I thought it would be a bit of a chore – maybe some long talks or random group activities. But I figured I should go. Everyone kept saying it was the best way to meet people and start off right. Day one came, and I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. The first event was a welcome session in the campus auditorium, and there were so many students there that I felt a bit like a small fish in a huge ocean. But when I looked around, I saw a lot of other freshmen who looked just as lost as me, which made me feel a bit better. One of the first things they did was divide us into smaller groups led by student mentors. My mentor, Alex, was a junior who knew the campus inside out. Right away, he made us feel comfortable, cracking jokes and talking about how he was just as nervous his first year. It felt good to hear that even someone like him had struggled to find his way at first. Through the FYE program, we had activities and workshops planned throughout the week. One day, we had a campus scavenger hunt, and while I’m usually not big on games, it was actually a lot of fun! We had to find spots on campus, like the library, the student center, and even the best coffee shop. Running around with my group, laughing and working together, made it easy to forget that I had only known these people for a couple of days. Another big highlight was the wellness workshop. I thought it would just be about study habits, but it went deeper. They talked about balancing mental health with school, how to deal with homesickness, and even how to eat healthy in the dining halls. It felt reassuring to know the university cared about our well-being, not just our grades. By the end of the week, my group had grown really close. We had shared stories about where we were from, what we wanted to study, and even our worries about college. Some of us had big dreams of becoming doctors, engineers, and artists, while others were still figuring it out. Knowing I wasn’t the only one who didn’t have everything figured out was a relief. Now, a few months into the semester, I can see how that first week changed everything for me. I walk around campus and see familiar faces, people I met through FYE, and it makes me feel like I belong here. I even joined a club that Alex, my mentor, recommended – it’s been a great way to keep building friendships. If you’re reading this as an incoming freshman or just feeling nervous about starting college, I’d say give those first-year programs a shot. They’re not just there to fill your schedule; they’re designed to make this big, new place feel a little bit smaller and more like home. I know it helped me, and maybe it’ll help you too.

Autumn has arrived! The leaves are changing colors, the air is getting cooler, and the holidays are just around the corner. While many people love this season, not everyone feels the same way. As the days grow shorter, you might find yourself feeling tired, cranky, or unmotivated, making it tough to keep up with school or work, not to mention your personal life. The good news is you’re not alone. This feeling has a name: “autumn burnout.” You may have heard of “ seasonal depression ,” also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) . This term describes the sadness and anxiety some people feel as the colder months approach. Symptoms can include a constant feeling of gloom and a loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy. SAD tends to be more common in winter, affecting about 5% of adults in the U.S. Autumn burnout is similar to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in some ways. It happens during specific times of the year and can lead to negative feelings. Jani Konjedic, a health writer , noted in an October 2022 article that the shift from summer to autumn can really impact how we feel. He shared that, over the years, he often felt burnt out in November, a time when the season is changing. He struggled to finish tasks and felt anxious about his burnout. While Konjedic may be the first to call it " autumn burnout ," many others have felt the same way. Although researchers haven't studied this term yet, lots of people relate to the feelings of helplessness and anxiety that can come with fall. With the extra stressors of the season, it makes sense that many are feeling this way. You might have heard of ideas like the “October theory” or “winter arc,” which suggest setting new goals and building good habits for the year ahead. But having too many expectations and putting pressure on yourself can actually make autumn burnout worse. If Autumn Burnout Affects You, You’re Not Alone ? If you’re feeling autumn burnout, remember that many people feel the same way, and there are ways to feel better during this time. Here are some tips to help: 1. Focus on Your Health: Stay hydrated and eat nutritious foods. Taking care of your body can really help boost your mood. 2.Take Breaks: Give yourself time to rest. Breaks are important for your mental well-being. Be Kind to Yourself: Practice self-compassion. It’s okay to acknowledge how you’re feeling without being hard on yourself. For college students, this might also mean taking mental health days when you need them, not overloading your schedule with too many activities, and finding time to connect with friends and family, whether in person or online. Remember, autumn burnout doesn’t have to dominate your life for three months each year. If you’re feeling tired and unmotivated, know that you’re not alone and there are steps you can take to feel better. And don’t forget to be gentle with yourself—this chilly season will pass! . Read also : How I Used AI to Turn My Study Notes into a Podcast: A Student’s Journey from Illinois

When I first stepped onto my college campus, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. I was in a new place, surrounded by so many different people, and I wasn’t sure how I fit in. At first, I tried to blend in, hoping that would make it easier to make friends. But as the weeks went by, something started to change. I joined a few clubs that interested me—like the art club and a group focused on social justice. In these spaces, I met people who shared my passions and values. They welcomed me with open arms, and I began to feel more comfortable being myself. One day, during a club meeting, we had a discussion about identity. Everyone shared their stories, and I listened closely. Hearing my peers talk about their experiences helped me realize that I wasn’t alone in my feelings. I found the courage to share my own story, talking about my background and what it meant to me. It felt amazing to express myself and be accepted for who I truly am. Over time, I became more confident. I started to wear clothes that reflected my style and interests, rather than what I thought others would like. I also began to speak up more in class, sharing my thoughts and ideas without fear. Each small step helped me embrace my identity even more. As I navigated college life, I learned that my differences were something to celebrate, not hide. I formed deep friendships with people from various backgrounds, and together we created a supportive community. College was not just about studying; it was about discovering who I am and feeling proud of it. Looking back now, I realize that my college experience transformed me. I came in feeling unsure but left with a strong sense of self. I learned that embracing my identity is a beautiful journey, and I’m excited to continue it as I move forward in life. Read also : What Autumn Burnout Is and How College Students Can Overcome It

Halloween is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time for students to get creative and have some fun! Whether you’re planning to celebrate with friends or just want to enjoy the spooky season, here are some easy and enjoyable ideas for Halloween. Costume Party One of the best ways to celebrate Halloween is by dressing up! Host a costume party with your friends. You can choose a theme, like “classic monsters” or “favorite movie characters.” Don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Tips DIY Costumes : You don’t need to buy an expensive costume. Get creative! Use clothes you already have or visit a thrift store to find unique pieces. Group Costumes : Coordinate with your friends to dress up as a group. It’s more fun and makes for great photos! Pumpkin Carving Carving pumpkins is a Halloween tradition that never gets old. Gather some friends and buy a few pumpkins. You can carve spooky faces, funny designs, or even intricate patterns. How to Get Started Tools : You’ll need a pumpkin 🎃 carving kit, which you can find at any craft store. Templates : Look online for carving templates if you want some inspiration. Pumpkin Seeds : Don’t throw away the seeds! Roast them for a tasty snack. Halloween Movie Marathon Settle in with some popcorn and have a Halloween movie night. Pick a mix of classic horror films, family-friendly spooky movies, or even some Halloween comedies. Spooky Treats Get in the Halloween spirit by making some themed snacks. Baking with friends can be a lot of fun, and you can make some creepy treats. Ideas for Treats Ghost Cupcakes: Decorate cupcakes with white frosting and use chocolate chips for eyes. Monster Rice Krispie Treats: Shape them into monsters using candy eyes and chocolate. Witch’s Brew Punch: Mix green punch with gummy worms for a fun drink. Haunted House Tour If you enjoy a good scare, look for haunted houses in your area. Many places offer spooky tours during October. It’s a great way to get into the Halloween spirit and have some thrills! Volunteer for a Halloween Event Many communities host Halloween events like trick-or-treating or festivals. Consider volunteering to help out. It’s a great way to meet new people and give back while having fun. Halloween Games If you’re hanging out with friends, why not play some Halloween-themed games? Here are a few ideas: Murder Mystery Party: Host a themed dinner where everyone plays a character and solves a mystery. Halloween Trivia: Test your knowledge of Halloween facts and lore. Scavenger Hunt: Create a spooky scavenger hunt around your neighborhood. Halloween is a fantastic time for students to bond with friends and create lasting memories. Whether you’re dressing up, carving pumpkins, or watching movies, the key is to have fun and enjoy the spooky season. So gather your friends, get creative, and make this Halloween one to remember ! Read also : What Is A Winter Arc? The TikTok Trend, Explained

When fall and winter roll around, most of us think it’s time to relax, cozy up, and enjoy the downtime. But there’s a fresh trend on TikTok that suggests we might be missing out. Enter the " Winter Arc " — a concept that’s all about being disciplined during these chilly months. So, what’s a winter arc ? Basically, it’s a way to focus on your goals from October to December. Whether you want to improve your fitness, studies, mental well-being, or social life, this is the perfect time to buckle down.The idea is to put in the effort now so you can step into the new year as a better version of yourself. If you’re curious about joining the winter arc movement, here’s what you need to know. In a popular TikTok video, Carly ( @carlyupgraded )explains that a winter arc is about “ getting super laser-focused ” on your personal growth. By the time January 1st arrives, you’ll feel like a whole new person. Another TikTok creator, Kelly Story ( @kellybstory ), shares her tips for kicking off a winter arc. She suggests starting with a daily checklist . It can feel daunting to commit for three months, but tackling it one day at a time makes it manageable and keeps you accountable. Waking up early is another strategy Kelly recommends. It helps you make the most of your day and boosts your productivity. Plus, having a clear plan or program to follow can guide you toward achieving your goals. If you’re feeling lost about how to start your winter arc, don’t worry! Many TikTokers are using AI tools to help create their schedules, like Bhali Elizabeth ( @eli.bxoxo ). If you prefer a little guidance, this could be a great option for you. While some people kicked off their winter arcs on October 1st, the TikTok community agrees that it doesn’t really matter when you begin. The key is to start in those last months of the year. The beauty of the winter arc is that it’s flexible — you can tailor it to fit your personal goals. So, take some time to think about what you want to achieve before the year ends and dive in!. Read also : What Autumn Burnout Is and How College Students Can Overcome It

Lately, thrifting has become super popular among Gen-Z, and it’s also a big part of my life. With fast fashion being such a problem, thrifting is a great way to shop more responsibly and give new life to clothes and items that are still in great shape. Plus, it’s a fun way to find pieces that match your personal style without spending too much money. It’s also a perfect activity to enjoy with friends! Here are my top five favorite places to thrift in Connecticut! 1- Lower Forms Let me tell you about my favorite thrift store, Lower Forms, in New Haven, CT. This place has a cozy vibe and a carefully curated selection. When you walk in, you’ll find boxes up front where you can dig around for hidden gems, kind of like the Goodwill bins. The rest of the store is neatly organized by clothing types—shirts, jeans, skirts, and more. They often host pop-up shops with local brands selling things like handmade jewelry, extra thrifted clothes, and unique upcycled items. The staff is super friendly and always ready to chat. They give great tips on what to look for, too. It’s a perfect spot for thrifting, and you can easily spend a lovely day exploring New Haven afterward! 2. Pandemonium Thrift Shop Next up is Pandemonium Thrift Shop, and let me tell you, it’s a blast! Located in a house in Deep River, CT, this two-story thrift store actually extends into the backyard. On the first floor, you’ll find a mix of vintage and modern clothes, usually priced between $5 and $15, plus a wall full of unique jewelry. There’s even a cozy café, a book room, and a furniture area, not to mention a friendly cat that wanders around! Downstairs, you can discover everything from chandeliers to sewing supplies, and outside, there’s a trailer packed with vinyl records, CDs, and cassettes. But the best part? The animals! There are goats and a whole area for exploration, making it a fun spot to shop for treasures while enjoying the lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to hunt for great finds and have a memorable time! 3. Three Graces Vintage Next on my list is Three Graces Vintage. True to its name, this shop specializes in vintage clothing and jewelry. The owner is one of the nicest, most imaginative people I’ve ever met. You can really tell how much care she puts into selecting each piece. Located in the charming town of Stafford, this store brings so much energy to the community. When I visited for the first time this summer, it felt completely different from any other thrift store I had been to in Connecticut. It’s definitely a must-visit for anyone who loves unique, vintage finds! 4. Elephant’s Trunk If you’re looking for a bigger thrifting experience, you have to check out Elephant’s Trunk in New Milford. It’s the largest flea market in New England and takes place every Sunday, weather permitting. There are tons of vendors selling just about anything you can imagine, and you’ll often find live music and food trucks to enjoy! One important tip: make sure to bring cash! I learned the hard way that many sellers don’t accept cards, Venmo, or anything like that. But trust me, this flea market is worth a visit if you want to spend hours exploring and hunting for great finds! 5. Pop-up Vendors My last recommendation for thrifting is to keep an eye out for pop-up vendors! Events like those from @Forgotten.Flea and @Thrift2Death are super popular on Instagram and often take place in Connecticut. I went to a Forgotten Flea event this past summer, and you could really feel how much the vendors care about their small businesses. One vendor even gave me a free 3D-printed keychain because we had something in common! If you’re looking for something convenient, there are vendors who set up a few times a year right in Downtown Storrs, especially at Fairfield Way and the Student Union. Broadbin Vintage is a favorite on campus, but you can usually find other unique items around the center of campus throughout the year. It’s a fun way to discover new treasures! Another great spot for thrifting on campus is the University of Connecticut Swap Shop . Here, you can bring in clothes you no longer want, and in exchange, you get credits to pick out new pieces from what they have available. It’s a really fun idea and a great way to refresh your wardrobe! Overall, being curious and exploring new places to thrift can lead you to some amazing, timeless, and trendy finds for your closet. Enjoy the adventure! Connecticut has so many unique places for thrifting, making it a great way to get outside and explore with friends or even by yourself. While online shopping is always an option, CT offers some really interesting thrift stores and events that are fun to visit, all while being eco-friendly and budget-friendly. So, the next time you’re in the mood to thrift or look for some cool items, remember to check out these local spots!

With all the new technology changing education lately, imagine if I told you there's now an AI that can turn your written notes into a full podcast episode. Sounds pretty cool, right? Well, it actually exists! It's called NotebookLM , developed by Google Labs, and it's changing how students study and remember what they learn for exams. NotebookLM is an AI tool that helps with research and note-taking. One feature that's getting a lot of buzz on social media is called audio overview, which lets you create a podcast from your notes. Here’s how it works First, you type your notes into a document and save it as a PDF file. Once you have the PDF on your computer, you upload it to NotebookLM. In just a few minutes, the program takes all your information and turns it into a podcast version of your notes. But it’s not just reading your notes back to you. Instead, the program creates a conversation where AI “hosts” discuss the content of your notes. After watching so many videos of students using AI to create podcasts for studying, I decided to give it a try. I used notes from an old class about the history of radio broadcasting, and I was surprised by how well it worked! The program sounded like a real conversation between two experienced podcast hosts, making my notes much easier to understand. This way of studying could really help a lot of students, especially those who learn best by listening. If you’re someone who needs to hear things multiple times to remember them, you can easily replay sections of the podcast. Plus, you can download the podcast episodes, which makes it simple to fit studying into your busy life. You can listen while you’re in the library, walking between classes, at the gym, or even on your way to campus. NotebookLM also offers other features, like creating FAQs, study guides, tables of contents, timelines, and summary documents based on your notes. This means you can customize your study materials in the way that works best for you. You can even share your notebooks with friends using a link, which is great for sharing notes in different formats. The best part? This program is free for everyone, making it a fantastic tool for students! .

When I first arrived at my Historically Black College and University (HBCU), I was both excited and a bit scared. I had heard wonderful things about the school, but I didn’t know what to expect for myself. From day one, I felt an incredible sense of belonging. The campus was alive with energy, and everywhere I looked, I saw students celebrating their culture and achievements. It felt like I was part of a big, welcoming family. In class, my professors were inspiring. They not only taught us about our subjects but also connected the lessons to our histories and identities. One professor, in particular, encouraged us to dig deep into our roots and understand the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us. Learning about my heritage filled me with pride and a newfound appreciation for who I am. Outside of class, I got involved in student organizations that aligned with my interests. I made friends who shared my passions, and we worked together on various projects and events. Whether we were celebrating cultural heritage or just hanging out, I felt a sense of camaraderie that made me feel at home. One unforgettable night, I attended a campus event where everyone gathered to celebrate our culture. The energy was electric as we sang and danced together. In that moment, I realized I was part of something much larger than myself—a rich legacy of strength and unity. As my college years went on, I became more confident in my identity and goals. I learned to speak up for myself and others, and I understood the importance of community. My HBCU didn’t just provide me with an education; it shaped me into a more aware and passionate person. Looking back, attending an HBCU transformed my life. It opened my eyes to my culture, boosted my confidence, and surrounded me with a community that I cherish. I graduated with more than just a degree; I left with a deeper understanding of who I am and where I belong. I’ll always be grateful for the experiences and lessons I gained during my time there. Read also : How I Used AI to Turn My Study Notes into a Podcast: A Student’s Journey from Illinois

The views in this article are my own and don’t reflect those of Daddycampus. This post is written by a guest student writer. College life often means juggling weird schedules and tight budgets. Many of us find that part-time jobs in customer service are the best option. Cafés and restaurants offer flexible hours that can fit around classes while helping to pay the bills. So, what do employers really want? I’ve managed a coffee shop in Boulder and interviewed lots of people for barista positions, so I have some insights into what goes on during the hiring process. Applying for a Job One of the best things you can do is drop off your resume in person. Even if you’ve already applied online, bringing a physical resume shows that you’re serious about the job. It helps make a good first impression. Keep your resume to one page and tailor it to the job you’re applying for. If I’m hiring for a barista, I want to see your experience in customer service or food. Things like knowing how to code or your GPA aren’t as important in this context, so make sure to use your space wisely. It also helps to include your availability and preferred hours. If they match what I need, you’re likely to get an interview. During the Interview Think of the interview as a conversation. It should feel natural. Your personality is just as important as your experience. I can teach someone how to make a latte, but I can’t teach them how to connect with customers or get along with coworkers. Be confident, but avoid coming off as arrogant. Let the conversation flow, but don’t take over. And remember, you’re not the only one interviewing. You want to leave a positive impression, so don’t be too aggressive or pushy. The Benefits of Customer Service Jobs No matter what you’re studying, working in customer service teaches you valuable skills. I’ve learned to manage my time better and balance work with school. I’ve also developed important interpersonal skills, like connecting with coworkers and customers, which helps me work better with others. Overall, while job hunting can be tough, these insights can help you navigate the process successfully. Read also : What Is A Winter Arc? The TikTok Trend, Explained

The views expressed here are entirely my own. This post is by a Student guest writer. Growing up, I often found myself trapped in a cycle of overthinking. I was always anxious about how others perceived me, determined to make everyone around me feel comfortable—even at my own expense. I thought this was just who I was. For a long time, I worried about everything. A less-than-perfect test score or a missed volleyball serve would play on repeat in my mind. I focused on my mistakes and how to avoid repeating them. This led me to sit alone at the front of the classroom instead of enjoying time with my friends. I practiced one serve until it landed perfectly every time. Conversely, when good things happened, like receiving an award or getting invited to a party, I brushed it off as luck or kindness from others. I felt like the joy was fleeting. To me, anything positive was merely a coincidence, while the negatives were all my fault. Because of this, whenever I felt happy, it was overshadowed by a constant fear. Happiness seemed like a fragile moment before inevitable disappointment. Growing up in Chile, where earthquakes were a part of life, I learned that sudden upheaval was always a possibility. We were always prepared for the next quake—stocking up on water, keeping flashlights handy, and ensuring fragile items were tucked away. We knew that when an earthquake hit, it could disrupt everything, and I began to mirror this mindset in my own life. I braced myself for catastrophe, especially when things felt good. Happiness felt like the calm before the storm, those rare moments of quiet before something might go wrong. I thought that worrying was a way to prepare for disaster. If I fretted enough, maybe I could prevent it. But this constant state of worry robbed me of enjoying happiness. I became my own worst enemy, assuming every little tremor in life was a sign of impending doom. Now, I see things differently. I understand that mistakes happen, and failure is a part of growth. Not every rumble signifies disaster; sometimes, it's just the sound of a truck passing by. A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). This diagnosis brought a wave of understanding about my experiences. It was comforting to finally have a name for what I was feeling. I felt hopeful about my future, envisioning a life with less worry and more joy. I began therapy, experimented with medication for a time (though ultimately, that wasn’t the right path for me), and started journaling to clear my mind. Recently, I’ve noticed real progress. One day, out of the blue, I simply felt happy. There was nothing special about it—no dramatic revelation or sudden insight. Just happiness, pure and simple. For the first time in ages, I wasn’t weighed down by worry or negative thoughts. It felt liberating. While I still keep bottled water in the garage and avoid hanging things above my bed, I’ve learned to embrace happiness. I allow myself to smile and look forward to all the good that’s yet to come. Read also : How I Used AI to Turn My Study Notes into a Podcast: A Student’s Journey from Illinois

I’ve always lived in two languages: English and Spanish. Growing up in California with Chilean parents, and later moving to Boulder, Colorado, I picked up both languages simultaneously. For a long time, though, I kept them separate. In my early years, I spoke English outside and Spanish at home. After my dad finished his PhD, we moved to Santiago, Chile, where my world became fast-paced Chilean Spanish, while English stayed tied to music, TV, and playing games with my sisters. My parents wanted us to keep our English skills, so they sent us to a bilingual school. Until fourth grade, most classes were in English, and Spanish was reserved for playtime and chatting. When I was 16, we moved back to Boulder. I felt ready: I was fluent in English, had good grades, and even reached out to the softball coach at my new school, eager to join the JV team despite having no experience. I was confident, but I soon realized that speaking a language isn’t enough to fit into a new culture. I knew I’d struggle with slang and casual conversations since my English was mostly from school. What surprised me was the pressure to prove my intelligence to both teachers and classmates. Many focused on how I spoke rather than what I said, pointing out grammar mistakes instead of listening to my ideas. One moment that stuck with me was when a classmate questioned how I ended up in AP U.S. History while tutoring her in chemistry. I wish I had reacted differently, but I was too stunned. I just said I was used to advanced classes, and that was that. Her comment, though not meant to hurt, still resonates with me. Despite these experiences, I chose to stay in Boulder for college at the University of Colorado Boulder . I was grateful for the diversity there. Even though it’s mostly a white institution, my classes included people of different backgrounds, allowing me to embrace both sides of my identity, including my languages. Entering college, I wondered if I’d ever write in Spanish since my academic work was always in English. For a while, I did stick to English, as workshops focused solely on that language. But last year, I wrote a short novel for my honors thesis about a character moving from Chile to Colorado, and I wanted to include Spanish in the story. It felt right to reflect my character’s experience authentically. I asked my advisor if I could do this, and she encouraged me. Once I realized I could mix languages in my writing, I began to do the same in everyday life, and it changed everything. After living in Colorado for six years, I had clear language boundaries: Spanish was for home, where I talked to my family and expressed my emotions, while English was for friends, school, and planning my day. Over the past year, I’ve started using Spanish beyond home. I incorporate familiar phrases into conversations, which has surprisingly strengthened my relationships. My Netflix lineup now includes both * La Casa de Papel * and * Brooklynn 99 *, and my music taste blends Chappell Roa n with Bon Jovi . In my literature classes, I reference authors like Don Quixote and Pablo Neruda, even if I have to translate. Breaking down the barriers I once had has been liberating. I’ve always lived in two languages, and allowing them to blend is truly a beautiful experience. Read also : Your Guide to Applying for CGI University 2025