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Group 9: Kyra S, Jada M, Carlu, Priscila, Jonatán, Lei, Val

Not more than half an hour ago, Luna was crying because she felt stressed out: work, studying, life, everything made her feel overwhelmed. But now that she had washed her face and put on some makeup she looked, if not as if nothing happened, at least as if she was barely distracted by something. She looked at the mirror and smiled, and felt satisfied with her image. “That will do”, she told herself.

“Hi girl! How are you doing?”, asked Olivia across the screen.

“All good, and you?, answered with a timid smile

“Amazing, you know, life couldn’t be better. By the way, I’ve seen the pictures you posted, looked so beautiful”, said Olivia

“Which pictures?”, Luna thought to herself. She tried to remember all the things she had posted, ”Oh, you mean those in uni?”

“Yes, books, nature, coffee, friends and you, those pics looked straight off Pinterest.”

She remembered that moment, a free period after an exhausting and unproductive class because she was late. She was stressed because she had too much to do, and so little time to do it. She was questioning herself: did I make the right choice? Because if it wasn’t, she was working too hard for nothing.

“Yes, yes, it felt absolutely divine”, said while she smiled and looked down. If only she knew. She seemed to have the perfect life: living in the US, studying with a scholarship for a job that will pay her off, perfect routine, friends and boyfriend. What would she know of economic struggles if she lived in a country with a stable economy, not like Argentina’s, “but I’ve looked at your photos on the beach, I feel so jealous. It looks so relaxing”.

“Absolutely”, said Olivia while she laughed. Was it that relaxing? No, absolutely not. She went to the beach that day only because her friends forced her to do so. She wanted to keep studying for her exams, even more so as she almost failed her last exam. And she couldn’t keep those grades, in no way. “I have to study, I can’t go have fun, I have responsibilities!”, she told her friends. “Sweetie, if you only study you are going to burnout and I think you like that brilliant mind of yours. So, take a break and breathe a little, there is life besides study.” She passed, but could’ve been just luck. She couldn’t afford the risk again. She wouldn’t. “Thank God it’s summer here, because if it wasn’t then it would’ve been so annoying. However,” she asked quickly, “how are your exams going?”. She felt guilty, she wouldn’t like to be asked that. But what else could she do? What else did she know besides school?

“Fine, I mean, I am really scared for my exam, the teacher has really really high standards for a passing mark but, besides that, it’s not that hard”, Luna answered. She wanted to convince herself that her degree wasn’t that hard. But working and taking all those classes, it made it harder than she expected. Was it worth it, again? What if AI replaced it? What if she lost five years of her life with something that had no future? What if she didn’t have the opportunity to study later on? What if, what if?, “what about yours?”

“Oh,”she thought quickly, she couldn’t tell her she almost didn’t pass, she would look like a failure, “I did my best, you know, studied the most I could to get the best grade I could. Many A’s”

“I have no idea what A’s are,” answered Luna, laughing, “I will check but I think those are like 10s right? Oh yes they are, it's pretty impressive”. She couldn’t stop thinking about anything but that. I’m a failure.

“Sorry, I have to go, but we will talk any time you could”

“Yes, no problem, we will. Bye!”

“Bye”

They stopped smiling. The call ends in heavy silence. As they close their laptops, they both stare at the ceiling, knowing that the struggle continues and that the promise of 'tomorrow' might not be enough. Reality hurts, and hurts a lot but they are still trying.

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When I heard we were doing a flash fiction with another school, especially one from South America, I knew it was going to be the coolest thing ever. Being able to collab and share our different ideas/songs was so much more entertaining than just talking about it in class. I was able to see views on life that weren't so different from mine, even when we are so far away from each other. Much like everyone else's reflection, communication was a little difficult at first but not because of our language, everyone was just shy to talk. That didn't last long though! I hope to do collabs like this in the future.

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Headlines: Drake

Hi, my name is Paige and I am a nursing major.

This song relates to my expierence as a nursing studebt because nursing takes a lot of hard work and throughout my classes, I did an essay about nursing. We had to do something about our major and the nursing shortage was my topic. There are many stressful days with balancing school work, work, and my sorority. This song has a determined feeling that reminds me to stay focus.

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This group project was a good experience to work with other people that werent from ODU. I think that a challenge we had to overcome was communication. I know a few of my group members can agree that we had a little trouble making a group with all of us. We ended up making it work and having a great project at the end.

I think that global communication should be encouraged more and put into more classes because I do think that it was cool and a good expierence. 3. I think that I would reccomend keeping up with the project and making sure you are following the rules on padlet because it is easy to get lost. I also think keeping a good communication with the group members also helps a lot.

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This flash fiction project helped me get out of my comfort zone and become more comfortable working with others. I usually prefer working independently, so sharing ideas and collaborating with a group was challenging at first, but it taught me how to communicate better, listen to different perspectives, and compromise when needed. Working together also showed me that combining different ideas can make a story more creative and stronger overall. I feel like this experience will help me moving forward because it made me more confident in group settings and more open to trying new things, which are skills I can use in future classes, projects, and other situations outside of school.

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Working on this project truly brought me out of my comfort zone since it was the first time I collaborated with people from a different culture at such a level. Dissecting "Unwritten" with the Argentinian students was great Yet the language barrier almost made it impossible to communicate. Even after explaining the metaphor "the rest is still unwritten" I felt the message was lost because it relied not only on words, but also on the emotional "vibe" behind them. So, it was a great lesson in patience and in inventing nonverbal means to express myself when verbal means fail.

Coming into this, I saw global collaboration as just a method to get a job done Though this project opened up my eyes to the extent of our commonalities. With all the differences and barriers between us, we are all facing the metaphorical "empty pages" of our lives, uncertainty of what tomorrow holds. This has made me appreciate how a real connection can be formed through technology and that the world, in a way, has become a very small place.

My advice for the next students to come is to remain calm and not get stressed about looking silly a little bit. The awkward instances due to the language barrier are really the times when you understand the most. Don't be a silent spectator, interrogate and attempt to forge a real relationship with your partners. If you dwell on establishing a bond rather than simply completing the task, you will gain a lot more from it. Have a flexible attitude and take pleasure in the unplanned discussions. And overall just be involved.

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Song: Lonely Child

Artist: Youngboy Never Broke Again

Hi everyone! My name is Jenissi Amonoo, and I am an Exercise Science student at ODU.

I picked this song in connection with my experience in the university because it speaks about the pressure and the mental struggle of having a great ambition. As an Exercise Science student working toward my Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, the journey to graduation may feel long and overwhelming at times.

Lyric Excerpt: "I pay for therapy because my thoughts ahead of me / They keep on calling me, I'm way too far for them to get to me / I'm just a lonely child who need someone to help him out."

This song connects with me in a way where it portrays the kind of "tunnel vision" that college demands. Going for a doctorate time means you are making a lot of sacrifices and sometimes even feeling like a solo journey while you focus on your studies. At times, the stress of the future can really "run wild, " but this song is a reminder for me that I have to recognize the struggle and continue from now on. It signifies the determination and the deep feeling behind the efforts that I am putting in now so that one day I will be able to help others as a physical therapist.

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YoungBoy Never Broke Again - Lonely Child [Official Audio]

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Song: Heart On Ice

Artist: Rod Wave

Hello, My name is Destin Danquah, and I am an Cybersecurity Major.

I choose this song to talk about my experience at old dominion university because it shows staying focus and pushing through challenges while im working towards my future goals.

Lyric: “And I been through the storm and it turned me to a soldier.”

My personal connection to this song is that college comes with too many downs and ups, but those experience is what helps you grow as a person. Throughout my time at the university, I’ve leaned how important it is to keep pushing and stay motivated and keep working towards my success even during stressful times. I feel like this song represents determination, growth, and looking forward for the future after graduation.

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Rod Wave - Heart On Ice (Official Music Video)

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1) This experience pushed me outside of my comfort zone by making me speak to different people with a different cultural background. 2) Yes, this experience changed the way I viewed global collaboration in a negative way. I didnt understand a lot of my group mates and the process was quite uncomfortable and wish it was better. 3) One piece of advice I would pass on to the next group that participates in COIL is communication, make sure you guys talk and understand what you are doing. Don’t wait till it’s too late.

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1) It makes me get away from my comfort zone, cheering up to know new people. The simple fact that is creating a flash-fiction in group was rather challenging and what I take away from this activity, it is something entertaining.

2) What it changes the way I look international collaboration, I never thought gathering people and coordinating with them would not be easy. I do not foresee how to manage the schedules of everyone having remarkable time zones.

3) Every time your global collaboration task must do in groups, set up a schedule to do the homework so the members can share their ideas and communicate without delay or misunderstandings throughout the process. Another advice, agree upon what specific communication media will use and seek alternatives if the chosen media leaves difficulties to gather the group members.

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This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone as it gave me the opportunity to interact with people from a whole other part of the world. It helped me establish proper communication skills useful for group project settings and such which will be beneficial in the future for sure. The most challenging part of this assignment was having to communicate across time zones to properly conversate with my other groupmates which, as I mentioned before, helped establish my communication skills for future similar scenarios. Through this experience, my view on global collaboration has become more realistic since I've gotten the chance to experience it firsthand. It brought my expectations a bit lower on the complexity of global communications as it wasn't as bad as I thought. I would say to communicate and converse with your global group partners a lot more to understand and work with them much more closely so your assignment goes off with a hitch.

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This project pushed me out of my comfort zone because I am used to work with people who, even if they do not contribute much, at least maintain good communication with the group. In this case, the experience was far more challenging because, besides working with foreign people, which already made communication more difficult due to language and cultural differences. There was also a lack of feedback and meaningful collaboration from some members. At times, it felt frustrating and overwhelming, since teamwork depends greatly on cooperation and communication. However, this experience taught me an important lesson: people may choose to collaborate or not, but that should never become a reason for you to stop doing your own work or giving your best effort.

Working with people from another country and experiencing global collaboration were both a challenge and an opportunity for me. On one hand, it allowed me to create new experiences with people from different cultures, including native speakers, which helped me grow both personally and academically. However, it also became difficult because communication was not always easy, especially there were language barriers, different ways of expressing ideas, or cultural differences. In addition, I have learned that each person may have a different attitude toward teamwork and collaboration. Some people choose to contribute actively, while others decide not to participate as much. For that reason, I learnt that successful global collaboration depends greatly on the individuals involved and on the quality of communication they maintain throughout the activity.

Personally, and based on the experience I had during this COIL project, my advice would be to never abandon your work, regardless of whether your classmates decide to participate actively or not. I believe that you should always give your best effort because, at the end, the project will be presented and the work you contributed will still be recognized and valued. Even if the other person did not collaborate, you can feel proud of knowing that you did your part responsibly and with commitment. I also think that continuing to participate and staying engaged helps you grow both academically and personally, since the way you face these situations also reflects the kind of person you are and the values you choose to maintain.

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1) This experience took me out of my comfort zone, allowing me to connect and interact with people from another country who have different perspectives on life. The challenge that taught me the most was sharing and reading different interpretations of the same literary work, and how each of us has our own truth.

2) Yes, definitely. It is very enriching, and this kind of activity teaches you to respect other people’s opinions, to be tolerant and also to work as a team.

3) My main advice would be to get involved and be clear with your teams, whether you’re going to participate or not, because it’s about managing your time and not waiting for people to get in touch with you or letting them take the first step; you can do it too. Treat others as you would like to be tre

ated.

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1. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone by requiring me to reach out to people whom I had never met before. It has been a great experience getting to know my group members and working together to create a piece of Flash Fiction. Luckily, we all got along great and had similar ideas, so the writing process was pretty straightforward. A challenge that taught me the most was communication. It is very hard to communicate when we all have different class schedules and are in different time zones. What I learned from this was that your sleep sometimes has to be sacrificed to get the work done. I am beyond thrilled and proud of what we came up with together!

2. It did change the way that I think about global collaboration! In the beginning, I was worried about people not wanting to help, a potential language barrier, or constant differences of views. Nevertheless, I looked past these potential complications, and I am beyond glad that I did because it worked out for the best. We worked together, figured out a way to communicate, and got the work done! I am looking forward to the next opportunity I have with global collaboration!

3. One piece of advice I would pass down to the next group of COIL participants is that your group should create a schedule of when to work on your project. Even if it is only once a week, where you work for an hour or two one night. I feel like that would have helped my group a lot more instead of reaching out when one of us was free. I believe if we had planned it out better, we could have been done sooner, and the writing process would have been much smoother. Overall, this was an amazing experience!

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​1) How did this experience push you outside of your comfort zone? Which challenge taught you the most?

Writing flash fiction inspired by a song was already a big step, but doing it in a group made me feel a bit nervous at first. The biggest lesson was learning how to blend different ideas into one story. It taught me that being flexible and open to suggestions is the best way to make a project work

​2) Did this experience change the way you think about global collaboration?

Yes, it did. I used to think of global collaboration as something very complicated, but I realized it can be much simpler. Even though we didn't talk much about our personal lives or interests, just the fact that we were working together on the same story from different parts of the world was amazing

3) What is one piece of advice you would pass on to the next group of COIL participants?

My advice is to talk and participate as much as you can. Don't be afraid to speak up, even if you feel shy. It is a lovely experience and a great opportunity to connect with people from another part of the world, so make the most of it and enjoy the process

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This experience has forced me to push beyond my comfort zone when it comes to finding effective ways to communicate in a language that isn’t my mother tongue. I have been working hard to avoid misunderstandings, to understand others and to ensure that they understand me.

Group work is always challenging, but overcoming the communication barrier was key to successfully completing the task. Being open and willing to listen to and understand others is important when dealing with other cultures. It is a valuable learning experience and facing the challenges involved in the activity itself is useful preparation for future work of this kind.

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Group 2 Reflection prompt

1. This COIL project pushed us out of my comfort zone because we had to communicate and collaborate with people from another country who had different schedules, habits, and ways of expressing ideas. At first, I wasn’t sure how well we’d connect or if we’d even understand each other clearly. The biggest challenge was figuring out how to work as a team when we weren’t in the same place and couldn’t just talk face‑to‑face.

2. Yes, this experience changed how I see global collaboration. Before, I thought working with people from other countries would be complicated or awkward. But after doing this project, I realized it’s actually pretty normal and easier than I expected. Even though we live in different places, we were still able to share ideas, communicate, and create something together. It showed me that teamwork can happen anywhere, and different perspectives actually make the project better

3. My biggest advice is to communicate early and communicate often. Don’t wait until the last minute to reach out to your group, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or share your ideas. Even a quick message can keep the project moving. Also, be open‑minded your partners might approach things differently than you’re used to, but that’s part of what makes the experience valuable. If you stay flexible and respectful, the project will go a lot smoother and you’ll actually enjoy it.

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This experience was difficult because the other part of the group didn’t collaborate with us, so we ended up having to do the flash fiction by ourselves, which pushed me outside of my comfort zone since I had to take on more responsibility than expected. It taught me that clear communication and reliability are essential when working as a team, and that being adaptable and proactive can help you move forward even when things don’t go as planned. It also changed how I think about global collaboration, because I realized that without commitment from all members, the workload becomes unbalanced and the project suffers. My advice to the next group of COIL participants would be to set clear expectations from the beginning and to maintain open communication, but also to be prepared to step up and handle tasks independently if needed.

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1. Doing this project definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone because I normally am not the type to talk a lot to people other than my friends. I was able to communicate my thoughts and feelings without being worried about judgment. The most challenging part of this project was what pushed me out of my comfort zone. I struggled with communication at first, but this challenge taught me that it takes everyone's thoughts and opinions to complete a group project. The biggest thing that was a take away from this project was teamwork and communication. I will definitely take teamwork and communication because it is the key to working with others.

2. This project definitely changed the way I think about global collaboration. At first I was worried that communication was going to be difficult, but as time went on it wasn’t bad. Time zone differences were probably the thing I was most worried about because that could affect the group's communication. After this project I realized it is not as bad as some people make it seem. The key important details are communication and teamwork.

3.  The one piece of advice that I would pass on is to start this project early. If you start the project early there are less problems to worry about because there is still time to make edits. Also you won’t be stressed out the day that it's due.

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1. This project didn't push me out of my comfort zone. I'm an older student, and have had a great deal of challenges in my life. Working in groups is usually a case of "herding cats", but we had a good group that collaborated.

2. Most of my adult life has been spent overseas, and I've worked with many people from many countries. Nothing new on the global collaboration front.

3. I'd pass on to other COIL groups to take advantage of direct communication with students from the opposite country. There's a world of culture out there, beyond where you've been raised.

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When it comes to an assignment like this, I usually think that I would be better off working by myself. I often think that I can get things done faster, especially when the thought of having to globally collaborate with other students comes into effect. But working with new faces with different mindsets and thought processes helped me grow in a way. I don't think it changed the way I thought of global collaboration, but rather it reassured how different global education systems are set up in comparison to here. A piece of advice I would give to future COIL project students, would be to be open to new ideas and try working in a way you aren't used to.

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This experience pushed me outside of my comfort zone because it required me to communicate and work with people I didn’t know, including students from a different country. At first, it felt a little intimidating because I was not sure how communication would flow or if everyone would have the same expectations for the project. The challenge that taught me the most was learning how to collaborate with people who may have different schedules, ideas, and communication styles. I learned that patience, flexibility, and clear communication are important when working in a group. This experience changed the way I think about global collaboration because it showed me that people from different places can still share similar goals and ideas. Even though we may come from different backgrounds, we can still work together, learn from each other, and create something meaningful. One piece of advice I would give to the next group of COIL participants is to be open-minded and communicate early. Do not be afraid to ask questions, share ideas, and connect with your group members. The experience becomes more valuable when everyone makes an effort to participate and build relationships.

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1.) this experience push me out of my comfort zone by because it makes me read about things I do not usually think about. Some stories show different cultures, problems, and feelings that help me understand other people better. Sometimes the books are challenging because I always don't like to read or they're not interesting, but they help me become a stronger reader.

Reading literature also makes me think about my own life and choices. Even when a story feels sad or uncomfortable, it can teach me important lessons. That is why literature helps me grow and try new ways of thinking.

2.) yes this experience change the way i think about collaboration because it helps me out more about hearing other people ideas make me think and open my mind up.

3.) the one piece of adicve i would pass on to the next group of COIL participants are , to work together and communicate, please !

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1. I believe that this assignment was something that was way out of my comfort zone but it was definitely something that was enjoyable and really great to hear what everyone had to say and what they thought about the project.

2. I don't think it changes the way I think about global collaboration I think that it is something that is interesting but I like the availability to work with other students from all over the world.

3. Always work with your partners and hear them out because they will have some unique ideas that you may not have and always have fun with he assignment.

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1)

This project pushed me out of my comfort zone because I had to work with new people and share ideas creatively. The biggest challenge was combining different ideas into one story, which taught me the importance of communication and compromise.

2)

Yes, it showed me that people from different backgrounds can still relate through shared experiences like stress and student life.

3)

Communicate early and make sure everyone contributes ideas. It makes the project much easier.

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How this experience pushed me outside of my comfort zone is talking to people from another country and as well as another college! I'm not a big and outgoing person but I genuinely did try on it! The challenge that I faced most is really the communication aspect and really making sure that everyone is on board with certain plans and that we can all come into agreement. What I took away from it is that it is fun interacting with people that you aren't really used to being with. This experience for sure made me change the way I though about global collaboration because there are many individuals that are like minded as me and are willing to work with me and that is for sure something I take into consideration. The one piece of advice is to just have fun and attempt to build or connect and create a relationship with the new people you meet!

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1. This flash fiction experience pushed me outside of my comfort zone because I had to communicate and collaborate with people who had different backgrounds, perspectives, and ways of learning. At first, I was nervous about working with others in a global setting and unsure about how well we would connect as a team. One challenge that taught me the most was learning how to communicate effectively despite differences in schedules, communication styles, and ideas. Through this experience, I learned the importance of patience, flexibility, and active listening. I also realized that collaboration becomes stronger when everyone feels respected and included in writing the piece.

2. Yes, this experience changed the way I think about global collaboration. Before this project, I viewed collaboration mostly as working together to complete assignments. Now, I see global collaboration as an opportunity to learn from people with different cultures, experiences, and viewpoints. It showed me how technology can connect people across the world and create meaningful learning experiences.

3. One piece of advice I would give to the next group of COIL participants is to stay open-minded and willing to step outside of your comfort zone. The more effort you put into communicating and building connections with your group members, the more rewarding the experience will be. Flexibility and patience are also important because global collaboration may come with challenges, but those challenges often lead to the most growth and learning.

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Too many faces, no one there.

I am alone. The mansion is always quiet, the only sound is my crying. I have friends, but no one I trust enough to really get to know.

At parties, where everyone dresses in their most expensive clothes, blinding jewelry, and fake personas. Sure on social media we look like the closest pack of friends, but in reality we are all backstabbers. None of us have futures in mind, the only thoughts in our minds are how we can portray ourselves better than the others. Hangouts are filled with fake personalities and forced confidence. The ropes that string our lives together are nothing but loose ends to an endless life of loneliness. Even at school you have to watch your back in case someone decides to stab it that day. Growing up our parents have always told us to stick to our own type of people, but what if my own type of people are nothing but empty carcasses made to fool the outside world?

I know I need to leave this life in order for my happiness to finally show, but all I have ever known is super rich kids with nothing but loose ends and super rich kids with nothing but fake friends. I need to grow, like the flowers planted outside my prison. I need to escape this hell and live a true and meaningful life, where I will never be alone again.

Odu students:

Kaylie Pruitt

Camden Lewis

Kyra Sharkey

UCASAL Students:

Nadia Corimayo

Luciano Arias

Mateo Agüero

lara Fayoni

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Cherry Blossom

The early morning sun was starting to shine through the horizon as she stood next to the railing of her town’s train station. A day as boring as ever, a mundane routine of places to pass through, listening to the same songs she always did, smelling the same smells she always had, but it all somehow felt warmer in her heart on this particular day. As she waits in line for the next train, she smiles at the sight of her friend’s recent post, happy that they’ve found love like she once had. She got lost in that thought, that feeling, when the train arrived. She stepped in, followed by the crowd. Her favorite seat was waiting for her. It was her favorite because it was the perfect combination of being close to the exit and watching the trees out the window. As she takes her seat, as if it were calling to her, her attention turns towards her phone again. A song named “Cherry,” her favorite one, comes on. She giggles, then turns to the cherry blossoms outside once more.

The song “Cherry,” the cherry trees, and that sweet cherry perfume she always wore. At that moment, her life was cherries, and how she loved cherries. She was like a cherry… sweet and innocent. And in this moment of sweet bliss, she closed her eyes. Her mind goes elsewhere, back to her old apartment, but not quite. The walls were all pink, and there were red balloons all around. Two white wood chairs lay in the middle of the room, facing each other. They were so close, and so dimly lit by the warm light of the cherry-scented candles around them, that it almost felt like they were in love. And she was in love again. She sat there, looking at the hall door, waiting for whomever was supposed to enter and read the big ‘Happy Anniversary’ made of cherry blossoms on the wall behind her. And she waited, and waited, and didn’t want to acknowledge the fading sunlight, so she waited. And the minutes were hours. She kept checking her phone, then the door, then her nervous feet, and how the red from her shoes suddenly faded as well. All the color seemed to fade, her walls now dull and grey, the balloons deflated, falling sad and defeated to the ground. She checked her phone once more. It had been an hour, and her message remained unread. The sweet smell from the candles was no more; a bitter smell now filled her room. All she could do was cry. Because she was like a cherry… so sweet and innocent.

She opened her eyes quickly, and the sweet scent returned briefly. Cherry blossoms drifted in front of her once more, like getting on the train and now were both the same moment. She thought of them, and what they meant to her, to life. Cherry blossoms only bloom for a short period, then fall, but that brief spell of nature is magical. A beauty that fades fast. A reminder of how everything is temporary, and how even that tight verse fear once recited is gone. As the train stopped, the song had finished. She looked out the window for one last second and smiled, and smiling she carried on.

Members:

Butus, Ángel Leonel

Casso, Romina Belén

Giddens, Brandon

Liendro, Sofía

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“The Monsters We Fight with”

He used to say I was too much. Too loud. Too emotional. Too hard to deal with.

At first, I tried to fix it. I talked less. I kept things to myself. I tried to be easier.

But it didn’t really matter. There was always something wrong.

Even when I stayed quiet, he still looked at me like I was a problem.

After a while, I started to feel like I didn’t recognize myself anymore. Like I was shrinking just to fit what he wanted.

Then one day, I just stopped.

When he reached for me again, I didn’t pull away or fight. I just stepped back.

“You always said I was too much,” I told him.

I paused for a second.

“Maybe you’re just not enough.”

And for the first time in a long time, I actually believed it.

Members:

Santoshi Pudasaini

Ana Lucia Dorini

Cayden Spraker

Lujan Marconetto

Cuitlahuac Aaron Sanchez

Lara Pagola

Justin Sager

Agustina Muñoz

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In the darkness of the room, searching for something to live for, I remember your number and all the things I could tell you about my boring life. I run to the kitchen, where the only phone in the house is waiting for me. It’s late, everybody else is sleeping, so I have to speak quietly. I dial your number, waiting for the beeps.

It isn’t your voice I hear on the other end. They tell me you’re not there, that you left over a month ago. If I ever find you, we’ll have to talk, because I’d bet anything your life is just as boring as mine, and I’m sure we once had a great love, so why not now?

If someday you find me, please ask about the time I called your house and you were already gone, because it’s a funny anecdote. I think I know your number by heart, and I’ll never forget it.

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"Tall Grass"

Walking to my fishin’ spot, the dusty dirt road under my bare feet, I stopped by the old gas station. These days I'm it's only customer and we only exchange pleasantries. Its tall grasses have kept the best worms for miles, just like when they were sold on the inside, and the pumps were lined with Studebakers. I leave a blueberry muffin as payment to the critters keeping an eye on the place, and wonder what memories and treasures will be found in my tall grasses.

I step my bare feet onto the dusty dirt road once more. Leaving a cloud of dirt puffing under my heavy steps disturbing the desolated area, only critters roam around here now. The wind blew by softly as it graced gently upon my skin reminding me of going fishin’ with my brothers. Memories suddenly become tangible as I’m almost able to hear their jokes and giggles somewhere inside my head. My feet trample the tall soft grass as I cut off the road. The Sun goes down in its usual direction; the dust in the air tastes the same. Everything here stayed the same. It’s only me that has changed.

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Not more than half an hour ago, Luna was crying because she felt stressed out: work, studying, life, everything made her feel overwhelmed. But now that she had washed her face and put on some makeup she looked, if not as if nothing happened, at least as if she was barely distracted by something. She looked at the mirror and smiled, and felt satisfied with her image. “That will do”, she told herself.

“Hi girl! How are you doing?”, asked Olivia across the screen.

“All good, and you?, answered with a timid smile

“Amazing, you know, life couldn’t be better. By the way, I’ve seen the pictures you posted, looked so beautiful”, said Olivia

“Which pictures?”, Luna thought to herself. She tried to remember all the things she had posted, ”Oh, you mean those in uni?”

“Yes, books, nature, coffee, friends and you, those pics looked straight off Pinterest.”

She remembered that moment, a free period after an exhausting and unproductive class because she was late. She was stressed because she had too much to do, and so little time to do it. She was questioning herself: did I make the right choice? Because if it wasn’t, she was working too hard for nothing.

“Yes, yes, it felt absolutely divine”, said while she smiled and looked down. If only she knew. She seemed to have the perfect life: living in the US, studying with a scholarship for a job that will pay her off, perfect routine, friends and boyfriend. What would she know of economic struggles if she lived in a country with a stable economy, not like Argentina’s, “but I’ve looked at your photos on the beach, I feel so jealous. It looks so relaxing”.

“Absolutely”, said Olivia while she laughed. Was it that relaxing? No, absolutely not. She went to the beach that day only because her friends forced her to do so. She wanted to keep studying for her exams, even more so as she almost failed her last exam. And she couldn’t keep those grades, in no way. “I have to study, I can’t go have fun, I have responsibilities!”, she told her friends. “Sweetie, if you only study you are going to burnout and I think you like that brilliant mind of yours. So, take a break and breathe a little, there is life besides study.” She passed, but could’ve been just luck. She couldn’t afford the risk again. She wouldn’t. “Thank God it’s summer here, because if it wasn’t then it would’ve been so annoying. However,” she asked quickly, “how are your exams going?”. She felt guilty, she wouldn’t like to be asked that. But what else could she do? What else did she know besides school?

“Fine, I mean, I am really scared for my exam, the teacher has really really high standards for a passing mark but, besides that, it’s not that hard”. She wanted to convince herself that her degree wasn’t that hard. But working and taking all those classes, it made it harder than she expected. Was it worth it, again? What if AI replaced it? What if she lost five years of her life with something that had no future? What if she didn’t have the opportunity to study later on? What if, what if?, “what about yours?”

“Oh,”she thought quickly, she couldn’t tell her she almost didn’t pass, I will look like a failure, “I did my best, you know, studied the most I could to get the best grade I could. Many A’s”

“I have no idea what A’s are,” answered Luna, laughing, “I will check but I think those are like 10s right? Oh yes they are, it's pretty impressive”. She couldn’t stop thinking about anything but that. I’m a failure.

“Sorry, I have to go, but we will talk any time you could”

“Yes, no problem, we will. Bye!”

“Bye”

They stopped smiling. The call ends in heavy silence. As they close their laptops, they both stare at the ceiling, knowing that the struggle continues and that the promise of 'tomorrow' might not be enough. Reality hurts, and hurts a lot but they are still trying.

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The Crown Prince

The Crown Prince, whose life had always been shaped by expectation, was raised to be perfect; raised to be a golden child. Every success made people admire him more, but also expect more from him.

He mastered everything, never falling behind, always trying to be the best. Upon the birth of his siblings, he decided he had to set an example. He wanted to be the one everyone looked up to, to be the bravest and strongest, even when simple things like storms caused him to tremble with fear.

But the Crown Prince was tired.

Beneath the endless praise and triumphs, he no longer knew whether he lived for himself or for the expectations placed upon his shoulders.

Standing alone, he wondered whether any of it had ever truly been worth it. He had everything, and still felt like the worst.

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MARINA · The Family Jewels · Song · 2009

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Surface’s Bottom

The cursor blinked. 3:14 am.

The assignment stared back, an unfinished wall. Tall, cold, impossible to climb. Everything seemed impossible. Or at least that was how it felt.

The entire room smelled of stale coffee and overheated electronics. Papers covered the desk in uneven piles. Highlighted phrases bled into each other under the weak yellow light. But for Aila, words weren’t a plan. They were a grip. On the desk, on the keyboard, on the last shred of sanity. It wasn’t the hour, minute or second that mattered. The important thing was how to make it work in her favour. Outside the window, the city had disappeared into silence. Inside, the weight of expectation was pressing down on her: deadlines, family, and a part-time job. The future demanded answers.

The clock on the wall kept ticking, as if mocking her. Every second sounded louder than the last, as if time itself was impatient.

'Whatever it takes,' she thought.

Her hands shook. Her eyes burned. Her body begged her to quit, but her mind counted steps in circles across the floor. One more line. One more page. “Do not stop till you get enough”. The phrase echoed again. It was no longer motivational. Not inspiring. Just necessary. Like breathing. Like survival. The mantra had no melody, only repetition. Success wasn’t bright or clean. It was messy, heavy, earned in silence.

The clock moved to 3:47 am.

Then the panic broke. Not with a victory, but with a shift. The wall didn’t vanish. It just stopped being a barrier and became a surface.

The fingers kept typing. One word. One step. One breath.

The room was silent, except for the humming of the computer and the sense of her future waiting for an answer. All she could see was a pile of assignments. Great fear. But what motivated her was the progress of each word, each step, each passion murmuring above her shoulders: the love of her loved ones and her own expectations.

But the cursor kept blinking, waiting.

The sound of the keys and the approaching sunrise made her wonder: Had success ever been the destination at all? Or if it was simply the decision to continue typing before the light disappeared again.

Perhaps success was never about reaching the end before anyone else. The objective was simply survival of the night without losing herself in the attempt. She had to survive the night and that was all.

-UCASAL STUDENTS:

Brezezinski, Priscila

Colque, Belkys

Figueroa, Brisa

Iriarte, Milagros Rosalia

Vargas, Fabiana

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1)How did this experience push you outside of your comfort zone? Which challenge during the project taught you the most, and what did you take away from it? 2) Did this experience change the way you think about global collaboration? 3)What is one piece of advice you would pass on to the next group of COIL participants?

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"Cherry Blossom"

The early morning sun was starting to shine through the horizon as she stood next to the railing of her town’s train station. A day as boring as ever, a mundane routine of places to pass through, listening to the same songs she always did, smelling the same smells she always had, but it all somehow felt warmer in her heart on this particular day. As she waits in line for the next train, she smiles at the sight of her friend’s recent post, happy that they’ve found love like she once had. She got lost in that thought, that feeling, when the train arrived. She stepped in, followed by the crowd. Her favorite seat was waiting for her. It was her favorite because it was the perfect combination of being close to the exit and watching the trees out the window. As she takes her seat, as if it were calling to her, her attention turns towards her phone again. A song named “Cherry,” her favorite one, comes on. She giggles, then turns to the cherry blossoms outside once more.

The song “Cherry,” the cherry trees, and that sweet cherry perfume she always wore. At that moment, her life was cherries, and how she loved cherries. She was like a cherry… sweet and innocent. And in this moment of sweet bliss, she closed her eyes. Her mind goes elsewhere, back to her old apartment, but not quite. The walls were all pink, and there were red balloons all around. Two white wood chairs lay in the middle of the room, facing each other. They were so close, and so dimly lit by the warm light of the cherry-scented candles around them, that it almost felt like they were in love. And she was in love again. She sat there, looking at the hall door, waiting for whomever was supposed to enter and read the big ‘Happy Anniversary’ made of cherry blossoms on the wall behind her. And she waited, and waited, and didn’t want to acknowledge the fading sunlight, so she waited. And the minutes were hours. She kept checking her phone, then the door, then her nervous feet, and how the red from her shoes suddenly faded as well. All the color seemed to fade, her walls now dull and grey, the balloons deflated, falling sad and defeated to the ground. She checked her phone once more. It had been an hour, and her message remained unread. The sweet smell from the candles was no more; a bitter smell now filled her room. All she could do was cry. Because she was like a cherry… so sweet and innocent.

She opened her eyes quickly, and the sweet scent returned briefly. Cherry blossoms drifted in front of her once more, like getting on the train and now were both the same moment. She thought of them, and what they meant to her, to life. Cherry blossoms only bloom for a short period, then fall, but that brief spell of nature is magical. A beauty that fades fast. A reminder of how everything is temporary, and how even that tight verse fear once recited is gone. As the train stopped, the song had finished. She looked out the window for one last second and smiled, and smiling she carried on.

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The Last Song Before Tomorrow

On the last Friday before graduation, the gym lights flickered as music filled the room—loud, nostalgic, the kind that made people shout lyrics like they were promises. Someone yelled, “This is our song,” and a group rushed the floor, laughing like they were trying to outrun the future.

Maya stayed by the bleachers.

She watched her friends spin in messy circles, arms slung over each other’s shoulders, living loudly in a moment that already felt like a memory. Everyone kept talking about making it count, about remembering this forever. It sounded easy when everyone said it together.

Out here, it felt heavier.

The music softened, and the room shifted. Couples swayed, conversations dropped into something quieter. Maya checked her phone—another unopened email about what came next, another reminder that time didn’t slow down just because she wasn’t ready.

“Time’s weird, huh?” Ben said, appearing beside her.

“Yeah,” she replied. “It doesn’t ask permission.”

He nodded like that made perfect sense.

The next song hit harder—faster, louder. The floor came alive again. People jumped and shouted, letting everything out, like all the stress and doubt from the past four years could be shaken loose if they just moved enough.

“Do you ever feel like everything that hurts you is supposed to mean something?” Ben asked.

“All the time,” Maya said. “I’m just not sure what yet.”

He smiled. “Guess that’s the point.”

Later, when the crowd thinned and the lights dimmed, the music turned softer again. Not sad, exactly—just honest. A few people stayed on the floor, swaying slowly, like they needed that kind of quiet truth.

Maya closed her eyes.

She thought about the late nights, the tests she barely passed, the friendships that almost fell apart and somehow didn’t, the days she felt invisible, and the ones she wished she could freeze forever. None of it was perfect. But she kept showing up.

Every single time.

Ben nudged her. “Hey. You made it.”

She opened her eyes. “I’m still figuring that out.”

He shrugged. “Trying counts.”

As teachers started guiding everyone toward the exits, one last familiar melody filled the room. Someone started singing. Then another. Then suddenly, everyone joined in—voices uneven but loud, stretching the moment out like they weren’t ready to let it end.

Maya laughed and sang along.

For the first time all night, she wasn’t thinking about the future or the pressure of what came next.

Just this.

Just them.

Just the feeling that even if everything was about to change, she would carry it with her—the nights, the growth, the pain, the effort—and somehow, it would all matter.

The song ended.

For a second, no one moved.

Everyone seemed to have slumped their shoulders, as though aware all those last pieces of joy ended — aware of what was to come.

But Maya opened her eyes, and for a moment her face lit.

The lights were brighter now. The doors wide open.

And for the first time, it didn’t feel like the world was rushing her.

It was just waiting.

She stood there a bit longer, as if her feet were pleading to stay;

However, she moved towards the brightness — carrying a quiet promise, and a debt to that light. It wasn't certainty that pulled her forward, just a fragile kind of courage

Behind her, the music faded; ahead everything was unwritten. And maybe that was enough – for now.

Group members:

Katelyn Miller

Valentina Quiroga Vázquez

Martina Ledesma

Constanza Alarcón

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Group 4 Flash Fiction Piece. Final Draft

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Group 4 Flash Fiction Piece. Final Draft

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Ending unplanned

The last box sat by the door, half-taped, as if even it wasn’t sure about leaving.

Bea’s apartment was empty, no pictures, no furniture, and no more laughter going on within the walls. Nothing but a blank space.

A notification buzzed in her phone. Not the person they wanted it to be from. Of course it wasn't, why would it be?

So, there she was, right in the same spot that made things go wrong. Regardless of how many weeks had passed, the dread still lingered in the apartment like stale air. Just the thought of things going back to the way they were made her feel stuck.

Still, today felt different. Today she decided to get some fresh air. She sealed the last box and walked out the apartment.

The hallway felt longer than usual, but Bea finally made it to the elevator. For a moment, she hesitated, and before she could even touch the button,the doors glided open. She took it as a sign that what she was doing was the right thing to do.

Bea made her way out of the apartment building and went towards her car, loaded the box and finally closed the trunk.

Then, there was one more thing she noticed. A box truck with an ad on the side that read: “Today is where your book begins, the rest is still unwritten.”

She stared at it for a good second before it drove off into the distance. As her eyes still followed it going away.

Bea got into their car feeling different, ready and daring.

“Its time to leave my past behind and keep moving forward.”

Members:

(ODU)

Jenissi Amonoo

Michael Jones

Tara Johnson

(UCASAL)

Constanza Ruiz

Lucía Guaymás

Melissa Segerer

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In the darkness of the room, searching for something to live for, I remember your number and all the things I could tell you about my boring life. I run to the kitchen, where the only phone in the house is waiting for me. It’s late, everybody else is sleeping, so I have to speak quietly. I dial your number, waiting for the beeps.

It isn’t your voice I hear on the other end. They tell me you’re not there, that you left over a month ago. If I ever find you, we’ll have to talk, because I’d bet anything your life is just as boring as mine, and I’m sure we once had a great love, so why not now?

If someday you find me, please ask about the time I called your house and you were already gone, because it’s a funny anecdote. I think I know your number by heart, and I’ll never forget it.

Ángel Ávalos,Federica Gauffin, Jasmine Redford, Oscar Ibarra Lopez, Rosario Díaz, Nicolás Ortega

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"Tall Grass"

Walking to my fishin’ spot, the dusty dirt road under my bare feet, I stopped by the old gas station. These days I'm it's only customer and we only exchange pleasantries. Its tall grasses have kept the best worms for miles, just like when they were sold on the inside, and the pumps were lined with Studebakers. I leave a blueberry muffin as payment to the critters keeping an eye on the place, and wonder what memories and treasures will be found in my tall grasses.

I step my bare feet onto the dusty dirt road once more. Leaving a cloud of dirt puffing under my heavy steps disturbing the desolated area, only critters roam around here now. The wind blew by softly as it graced gently upon my skin reminding me of going fishin’ with my brothers. Memories suddenly become tangible as I’m almost able to hear their jokes and giggles somewhere inside my head. My feet trample the tall soft grass as I cut off the road. The Sun goes down in its usual direction; the dust in the air tastes the same. Everything here stayed the same. It’s only me that has changed.

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"Butterflies in my brain

These ideas of mine

Percolate the mind"

"I just want to feel everything

I just want to feel everything"

"My heart's made of parts of all that surround me

And that's why the devil just can't get around me"

The mind becomes overwhelming and invasive, something the speaker cannot escape from.

The speaker wants to experience everything and not only to achive some results, but to feel the process.

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Fiona Apple - Every Single Night (Official Audio)

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1. Exert - Title: Super Rich Kids

I am alone. The mansion is always quiet; the only sound is my crying. I have friends, but no one I trust enough to really get to know.

At parties, where everyone dresses in their most expensive clothes, blinding jewelry, and fake personas. Sure, on social media, we look like the closest pack of friends, but in reality, we are all backstabbers. None of us has futures in mind; the only thoughts in our minds are how we can portray ourselves better than the others. Hangouts are filled with fake personalities and forced confidence.

2. Challenge - Definitely communication and finding time when we can all work on the project together. Either someone is busy, or people aren't responding.

3. Question - How can we communicate better? Does it sound good so far?

4. Strongest part - Definitely the imagery and the wording that keeps you wanting to read more.

5. The hardest part so far was trying to incorporate the title of the song into our flash fiction, but I think we are on the right track.

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Frank Ocean - Super Rich Kids (Music Video)

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Just a draft:

Luna and Olivia speak to each other every week, despite being in different time zones: Salta in Argentina and Virginia in the United States. On social media, everything appears successful: scholarships, work placements, high grades, photos of everyday life, and virtual coffee dates.

Behind the scenes, however, the weight of the night is bearing down on them: insomnia, anxiety before class, the fear of not being good enough and mounting debts and rent that are leaving them struggling to breathe. Olivia pushes herself to maintain her scholarship, while Luna divides her time between work and study. Every achievement comes at an emotional cost.

During video calls, they usually smile and joke about exams, acting as if fear were someone else's problem. They consider seeking help in the form of therapy or support groups. They tell themselves that tomorrow will be different and that they will make it, but the days go by and they feel increasingly alone.

The last call ends in heavy silence. As they close their laptops, they both stare at the ceiling, knowing that the struggle continues and that the promise of 'tomorrow' might not be enough. Reality hurts, and hurts a lot but they are still trying.

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"Whatever It Takes" by Imagine Dragons.

"Whatever it takes

Cause I love the adrenaline in my veins

I do what it takes"

Short fragment:

Aila was paralyzed under a mountain of blankets, the looming virtual assignments feeling like an infinite Chinese Wall. The complex formula felt like a foreign language; she wasn't meant to touch the folder “go to the activity”. Just as she surrendered to the abyss of pillows, a pair of hands gripped her ankles. With a sudden, Aila was sliding across the floor and shouting for her life.

Why did we choose it?

I am inspired by the themes of resistance and resilience. It challenges the idea that success or progress comes naturally to everyone. In reality, most of us aren't "naturals". We are people who show up every single day and give our absolute best despite the obstacles. I chose these lines because they capture that drive to push through the "adrenaline" of a challenge and the commitment to do whatever is necessary to keep moving forward.

1. Our challenges nowadays are to maintain consistency after hard situations and to face internal battles.

2. One question for my peers: Do you agree that most people aren't "naturals," or do you think some people truly have it easier?

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Imagine Dragons - Whatever It Takes (Official Music Video)

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Excerpt:

Every way, yeah, I'm pressuring myself

This time, I'm the only one to blame

Mirror mirror shouldn't tell me what to see

'Cause I'm so tired of this stupid game

Explanation:

University is something I've been looking forward since I was a child, but now that I get to be in University, I've had a lot of doubts, have pressured myself to perform at the best I can and when my results weren't what I was expecting, blamed myself for not being good enough. And mentally, it can be exhausting.

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LIN D - Foolish Mind (Official Lyric Video)

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The last box sat by the door, halved taped, like the box itself was unsure about leaving.

Bea’s apartment was empty, no pictures, no furniture, and no more laughter going on within the walls. There was nothing but a blank space.

She got a notification on their phone, however, it wasn’t from the person they wanted it to be from. Of course it isn't, why would it be.

So there she was, back in the same spot that made things go wrong. Regardless of how many weeks have passed by there is still the feeling of dread. Just the thought of having things go back to the way there was could have her stuck there for days.

However, today was different, today she decided to not let the dread consume her. She finished the last box that needed to be moved and walked out the apartment.

The hallway felt longer than usual but Bea finally made it to the elevator.

There was a hesitation to press the button but the door opened suddenly before she could even press it. That was the sign that what she was doing was good and that it was the right step for her.

Bea exited the apartment building and went towards her car, loaded the box and finally closed the trunk.

Yet, there was one more thing she noticed. A box truck with an ad on the side that read: “Today is where your book begins, the rest is still unwritten.”

She stared at it for a good second before it drove off into the distance. As her eyes still followed it going away.

Bea got into their car feeling different; feeling ready and daring as those simple words changed everything.

“Its time to leave my past behind and keep moving forward.”

Members:

(ODU)

Jenissi Amonoo

Michael Jones

Tara Johnson

(UCASAL)

Constanza Ruiz

Lucía Guaymás

Melissa Segerer

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The last song before tomorrow

Senior year felt like it was happening too fast and not fast enough at the same time.

On the last Friday before graduation, the gym lights flickered as music filled the room—loud, nostalgic, the kind that made people shout lyrics like they were promises. Someone yelled, “This is our song,” and a group rushed the floor, laughing like they were trying to outrun the future.

Maya stayed by the bleachers.

She watched her friends spin in messy circles, arms slung over each other’s shoulders, living loudly in a moment that already felt like a memory. Everyone kept talking about making it count, about remembering this forever. It sounded easy when everyone said it together.

Out here, it felt heavier.

The music softened, and the room shifted. Couples swayed, conversations dropped into something quieter. Maya checked her phone—another unopened email about what came next, another reminder that time didn’t slow down just because she wasn’t ready.

“Time’s weird, huh?” Ben said, appearing beside her.

“Yeah,” she replied. “It doesn’t ask permission.”

He nodded like that made perfect sense.

The next song hit harder—faster, louder. The floor came alive again. People jumped and shouted, letting everything out, like all the stress and doubt from the past four years could be shaken loose if they just moved enough.

“Do you ever feel like everything that hurts you is supposed to mean something?” Ben asked.

“All the time,” Maya said. “I’m just not sure what yet.”

He smiled. “Guess that’s the point.”

Later, when the crowd thinned and the lights dimmed, the music turned softer again. Not sad, exactly—just honest. A few people stayed on the floor, swaying slowly, like they needed that kind of quiet truth.

Maya closed her eyes.

She thought about the late nights, the tests she barely passed, the friendships that almost fell apart and somehow didn’t, the days she felt invisible, and the ones she wished she could freeze forever. None of it was perfect. But she kept showing up.

Every single time.

Ben nudged her. “Hey. You made it.”

She opened her eyes. “I’m still figuring that out.”

He shrugged. “Trying counts.”

As teachers started guiding everyone toward the exits, one last familiar melody filled the room. Someone started singing. Then another. Then suddenly, everyone joined in—voices uneven but loud, stretching the moment out like they weren’t ready to let it end.

Maya laughed and sang along.

For the first time all night, she wasn’t thinking about the future or the pressure of what came next.

Just this.

Just them.

Just the feeling that even if everything was about to change, she would carry it with her—the nights, the growth, the pain, the effort—and somehow, it would all matter.

The song ended.

For a second, no one moved.

Everyone seemed to have slumped their shoulders, as though aware all those last pieces of joy ended — aware of what was to come.

But Maya opened her eyes, and for a moment her face lit.

The lights were brighter now. The doors wide open.

And for the first time, it didn’t feel like the world was rushing her.

It was just waiting.

She stood there a bit longer, as if her feet were pleading to stay;

However, she moved towards the brightness — carrying a quiet promise, and a debt to that light. It wasn't certainty that pulled her forward, just a fragile kind of courage

Behind her, the music faded; ahead everything was unwritten. And maybe that was enough – for now.

Group members:

Katelyn Miller

Valentina Quiroga Vázquez

Martina Ledesma

Constanza Alarcón

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SONG: “Oh No!” - Marina & the Diamonds

Fragment:

One track mind, one track heart

If I fail,

I'll fall apart.

Maybe it is all a test

'Cause I feel like I'm the worst

So I always act like I'm the best

"Crown Prince"

The Crown Prince, whose birth amidst adversity resembled a ray of sunlight piercing through the thickest fog, came into the world to restore harmony to the royal family.

Crown Prince, whose path was set even before he was born. The firstborn son, the first grandchild, a precious child who would one day sit on that throne to reign over an entire nation.

Crown Prince, who mastered flawlessly every lesson in fencing, calligraphy, and singing, and whose eyes would spark with joy every time his governess praised him.

Crown prince, who, upon the birth of his siblings, decided he had to set an example. He wanted to be the one everyone looked up to, to be the bravest and strongest, even when simple things like storms caused him to tremble with fear.

Crown prince, who by the age of twenty had achieved such great things in his life, had mastered the art of leadership both in the realm and on the battlefield, had conquered even the most difficult lands, and had vanquished even the most terrifying creatures.

Crown prince, who, having achieved so much, still felt such an inexplicable emptiness that consumed him every night, gnawing at him whenever he wondered if it was all worth it.

Crown Prince, standing alone before a mirror, weeping helplessly under the weight of his own crown, wondering how much longer would he be expected to be the best.

Crown Prince, who had achieved everything, and yet, Crown Prince: who still felt like the worst of them all; whose downfall shall not come by sword nor beast, but by the sorrow festering in his heart.

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Song: Going underground
Artist: The Jam

Excerpt:
"Some people might get some pleasure out of hate
Me, I've enough already on my plate
People might need some tension to relax
Me? I'm too busy dodging between the flak
What you see is what you get
You've made your bed, you better lie in it."

This excerpt particularly reflects how I usually feel at University: While some people seem to thrive on stress or even conflict, I usually feel overwhelmed by everything I already have to deal with. Between assignments, deadlines, and constant pressure, it feels like I'm always trying to keep up rather than actually enjoying the process. Like the line suggests, I don't need extra tension to feel motivated—I already have enough on my plate.

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“Slipping Through My Fingers" by ABBA feels like the perfect way to describe my life as a student right now. I’m already in my third year, and it honestly scares me how fast everything is moving. What once felt like a long journey is now starting to feel short.

The song really resonates with me because I’m far from my family. My brothers are growing up so fast, and every time I see them, they’ve changed. It feels like I’m missing important moments.

It captures that bittersweet feeling of time passing while I try to hold onto it.

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Song and Artist: “We Are One (Ole Ola)” by Pitbull.

A line that stands out to me is: “Put your flags up in the sky and wave them side to side.”

As a university student, I feel like I am constantly in a kind of “World Cup.” Just like in football, you have to give your best, stay focused, and keep pushing forward to achieve your goals. This is something I’m passionate about, and it helps me connect my personal interests with my academic work. Both football and my studies are really important in my life.

Additionally, this song mixes languages and brings together people from different parts of the world, showing that differences do not divide us. Instead, they create a sense of unity and belonging. This idea is especially meaningful to me because I am studying a Public Translation course. Language is not just a tool for communication it builds bridges between cultures and helps people understand each other.

Youtube link: https://youtu.be/TGtWWb9emYI?si=HNKCfPe6-qpNcE2J

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We Are One (Ole Ola) [The Official 2014 FIFA World Cup Song] (Olodum Mix)

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Exams and Smoke

I got out of the classroom. It ends.

Put a cig in my mouth, I shouldn’t be doing this. But the rules of the faculty are not my biggest problem. Let me kill myself slowly on my own terms.

I shake my lighter, lighting up the little gun between my lips.

Breathe in the smoke.

Maybe next time it will be better.

Maybe it won’t.

Breathe out.

Maybe I don’t deserve this.

Maybe I’ll quit.

Breathe in.

Breathe out.

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I've been up and down and over and out, and I know one thing

Each time I find myself flat on my face

I pick myself up and get back in the race

During my experience as a student, I've tried and failed so many times that often I thought that I wasn't made for this, and that all my efforts were in vain. However, I learnt to always get back up and try harder than before, and that being persistent is the key to achieve your goals. These lyrics describe my experience, because when I find something difficult, it doesn't mean that I should quit, it means that I must accept the challenge and keep going.

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short excerpt (50–100 words) from your group draft

The Forever That Never Happened

1. “To hold your hand and call you mine Im tryn be your man till the end of time”

Were the last words that I heard from him before he left me forever.

Walking into the chapel expecting to see him waiting for me at the altar.

I thought he was the one, the one i was going to spend the rest of my life with

Turns out it was all a lie, I was the one he couldn't spend the rest of his life with.

2. One challenge our group is facing is communication we all decided on messaging on Instagram but seems like nobody knows how to use it.

3. If anyone has any ideas for like a title to the short excerpt.

Also, if anyone has any ideas on how to make the story better, please let us know.

4. Jasmine, Oscar

5. (I feel like were struggling with ideas and structure) Oscar

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1. A short excerpt (50–100 words) from your group draft

The Monsters We Fight With

He used to say I was too much. Too loud. Too emotional. Too hard to deal with.

At first, I tried to fix it. I talked less. I kept things to myself. I tried to be easier. But it didn’t really matter. There was always something wrong. Even when I stayed quiet, he still looked at me like I was a problem. After a while, I started to feel like I didn’t recognize myself anymore. Like I was shrinking just to fit what he wanted.

2. One Challenge Our Group Is Facing:

-One of the problems that we are currently having is ensuring that the story remains concise but also meaningful. The problem is which parts to include and exclude. Additionally, we have tried to make sure that the story is relevant to the song without being very obvious about it.

3. One Question for Other Groups

-How can we show a clear change in the character without making the story longer?

4. Names of the group members

Santoshi Pudasaini, Cayden Spraker, Agustina Munoz, Ani Dorini, Cuitlahuac Sanchez, Lujii Marconetto, Lara Pagola

5. What does your group think is the strongest part of your story so far?

-The best aspect of the story in our opinion is the way it portrays how one feels about being termed "too much".

What are you struggling with (language, ideas, structure)? Individual student responses should identify the question to which they are responding with their feedback

-One of the things that we are currently having a hard time with is finding an end point for the story that remains brief.

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I deeply relate this song to my experience as a student because, aside from structure and perseverance, it is importante to know when to follow your instincts. That is something University has taught me since day -1.

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Song: Vienna

Artist: Billy Joel

Lyrics:

Slow down, you're doing fine

You can't be everything you wanna be before your time

Although it's so romantic on the borderline tonight

Tonight

In my first year as a university student, I felt very sad about my own performance, but a teacher told me, 'Aunque se le diga carrera, esto no es una carrera.' That means this is not a race and everyone has their own pace. To me, this song represents how nothing is lost, even if you aren't doing everything now and feel like you are falling behind.

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Song: Franchise

Artist: Travis Scott

Hello, my name is Brandon Giddens, and I am an Exercise Major.

I chose this song to describe my experience at Old Dominion because I want to be apart of some sort of business or franchise that'll help set my future path.

"And when they free us out, it's gonna be a film, a Kodak."

My personal connection to this song is that many say that the four years you spend in college will feel like the best in your life. Whenever someone says that, I think of those four years feeling like a movie. One that everyone wants to replay or relive. When I graduate from this university, I feel that the same feeling will remain in my mind once I leave.

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Travis Scott feat. Young Thug & M.I.A. - FRANCHISE (Official Music Video)

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Song: Hey Jude

Artist: The Beatles

Lyrics excerpt:

And anytime you feel the pain, hey Jude, refrain,
Don't carry the world upon your shoulders.
For well you know that it's a fool who plays it cool
By making his world a little colder.

This is a song that has been with me for a long time. I grew up listening to The Beatles and this one has been one of my favorites. Paul McCartney wrote it as a gesture of encouragement and it has helped me in times of hardship, especially during stressful times at university. It encourages me to not close myself off to the help of others and to keep going, there is always a reward for persevering.

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The Beatles - The Beatles - Hey Jude (Official Music Video) [Remastered 2015]

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Song: AOK by Tai Verdes

Lyrics:

Living in this big blue world
With my head up in outer space
I know I'll be A-O, A-O-K
I know I'll be A-O, A-O-K
When I see trouble come my way
I be makin' lemonade
I know I'll be A-O, A-O-K
I know I'll be A-O, A-O-K (mm, mm)

I chose this song because whenever I feel like the world is crumbling I know it can always be worse and sometimes you have to keep your head up and things will be OK.

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Artist: Imogen Heap Song: Just For Now Lyrics: "I think something is burning Now you've ruined the whole thing Muffle the smoke alarm (Da-da-da, da-da-da-da-da-da) Whoever put on this music had better quick, sharp, remove it Pour me another Oh, don't wag your finger at me (Da-da, da-da)" My connection to this song: I think this song is beautiful. A true work of art this song will allow you to float. When I first heard this song I felt all my stresses melt away and it made me feel better despite all the challenges sitting in front of me.

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Imogen Heap - Just For Now (Official Audio)

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Song: You’re On Your Own, Kid – Taylor Swift

Excerpt:

"You’re on your own, kid / Yeah, you can face this"

Personal view:

This song really reflects my experience as a university student because it captures the feeling of growing up and learning to rely on yourself. Being at university often means dealing with new responsibilities, pressure, and uncertainty about the future. Sometimes it feels overwhelming, but at the same time, it’s empowering. The song reminds me that even when things are difficult or I feel alone, I’m capable of handling challenges and growing from them. It represents both the anxiety and the strength that come with this stage of life.

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Taylor Swift - You're On Your Own, Kid (Official Lyric Video)

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Song: De Lunes A Viernes

(From Monday to Friday)

(De lunes a Viernes Ando trabajando

varios se preguntan que Como le Hago)

Revalance

I chose this song and lyrics because it basically says all week I be working and everyone always wonders how I do it.

The reason I chose this is because I'm just as surprised as them I thought I would've quit long before but I'm still here.

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Angel Ureta X Fuerza Regida X Calle 24 - De Lunes A Viernes [Official Video]

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Hi everyone! My name is Gage Thorn, and I’m a Sport Management major at ODU. Being a student can be stressful with all the classes and work, but I try to stay positive and enjoy the ride. The song that reflects my experience as a student is “Jammin’” by Bob Marley. A line that really speaks to me is: "We're jammin', jammin', and I hope you like jammin', too." These lyrics remind me to find moments of fun and relaxation even when life is busy. Like the song, student life is about enjoying the moment and staying positive. The rhythm and energy of the music also keep me motivated.

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Artist: Doechii

Song: Yucky Blucky Fruitcake

Lyrics: "Overly cocky, I'm hyper-ambitious
Me, me, me, me, b****, I'm narcin-assistic
I am a Black girl who beat the statistics
F*** the opinions and all the logistics, haha

This song has been something I have related to since I first heard it a few years ago. It has always made me feel seen since I feel that i fit in the "awkward black girl" stereotype. The song is all about being different and not fitting in. It perfectly conveys the little black girl experience. Being a black woman in college is a huge accomplishment for me, since there are many negative stereotypes about black women from where I come from and in general. Even now in college, I still feel like I'm different and don't always fit in, but that is one of the great experiences in life and what makes me unique.

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Doechii - Yucky Blucky Fruitcake (Official Music Video)

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Hii! I´m Fiore, The song The Nights by Avicii represents my university life because it talks about living fully and creating memories that will last forever. University is not only about studying and exams, but also about growing up, becoming independent, and building my future. Even when it feels stressful or exhausting, I know these are the years I will remember someday. The song reminds me to enjoy the process and make every moment meaningful.

The line “One day you'll leave this world behind, so live a life you will remember” means that life is short, so we should live in a meaningful way. In university, it represents taking opportunities, working hard, and creating memories that will matter in the future.

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Song & artist:

Beyond the sea

Author, Composer (Original in French) : Charles Trenet

Composer: Albert Lasry

Author (songwriter in English): Jack Lawrence

Singer: Robbie Williams

Lyrics excerpt:

"I know beyond a doubt, ow
My heart will lead me there soon
We'll meet, I know we'll meet beyond the shore
We'll kiss just as before

Happy we'll be beyond the sea
And never again I'll go sailing"

Personal view:

Although it's a romantic song, I like the idea to reach at the end of something because of my perseverance. The song is about two lovers separated by the sea; however, one of them is coming soon just have to cross the ocean to hold her.

In my case, far of being a lover, I don't always get the tools to face university life. When I started the career in 2023, my English level was rather low. I did what can do in the first semester until I got an illness called Pneumothorax. It refers to a problem with lungs charged with certain liquids; those lungs compress the chest having a bad time. Given that, I was hospitalized for 11 days. Afterwards, it was difficult to engage again the midterms and the tasks; thus, I lost three of six subjects and I was being delayed up to now. Today, as an outcome of four years, I'm still in the translator course. I improved a lot in this language. I can't continue on subjects of the forth year; I'm just keeping on those of second and third year.

Hearing this song reminds me the value on keeping up. Our success or rest will come soon. I hope you could enjoy this as I do.

https://youtu.be/FzKpTdQeQ34?si=gZW6D2qYpDF8bTBL

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Hello everyone! My name is Luján Marconetto, but you can call me by my nickname, Luji. I am currently studying for the Public Tnaslator in English and I am 25 years old.

The song that I choose is called "Too much" by Dove Cameron. It is one of many songs that has been in my head recently regardless university.

Lyrics: "If you say I'm too much, baby, go find less
If you can't keep up, stay below, I guess
If I'm such a big deal, maybe you're too little
Ooh, ooh, it's tough, I'm too, too, too much"

Explanation: I specific chose this song since I am not healthy person since I was a child. Even though studing has always been my safe place, that is not all the time. As I am in third year I realized how hard is for me,at least cathing up with every subject and be prepare for all the expectations I put myself but also the expectations my professors want for us as we are two ywars closer to graduate.

The reason what chose those lyrics may represent the hard work and the effort I put in every yearto learn and be closer from a professional translator.

Link: https://youtu.be/DEEL9nvxwsc?si=TvBljKxeuXdIJ0MZ

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Dove Cameron - Too Much (Official Visualizer)

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Song: City Noise

Artist: Scarling.

The calm before the storm
The shaking in your head
How you sacrificed - how you paid the price
All the words you wish you had said

It's the rawest of emotions
Drinking to forget - names written in the snow
It's the anxious feel - purging your last meal
It's the secret that you can't know

My overall experience as a student is very enjoyable and, for sure, less chaotic than those lines. However, I wanted to emphasize how I feel whenever I don't show up for a final oral exam because I don't feel completely ready (it's hard to accept that one will never know everything). I also get very anxious in the hours before the exam, to the point that even though I haven't eaten anything -my throat closes up- I still feel like I'm going to throw up.

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Artist: One Direction

Song: Nights Changes

Lyrics: "Does it ever drive you crazy

Just how fast the night changes?

Everything that you've ever dreamed of

Disappearing when you wake up"

I picked this song to describe my college experience because in the daily life as a student, the days go by really fast and it was just a few years ago I was rushing to be in college, and it feels like it's about to be over already.

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Hii everyone! My name is Jada and I’m an Environmental Science major.

Song: Unbreakable

Artist: Michael Jackson

Lyric Exerpt: “Now I'm just wondering why you think

That you can get to me with anything?

Seems like you'd know, by now, when and how I get down

And with all that I've been through, I'm still around"

My personal connection to this song is that it reminds me I am unbreakable. I want to prove that not only to my family, but to myself as well. As a student, there have been many times when I’ve wanted to give up, but through all the trials and tribulations, I’ve continued to persevere.

Link: https://youtu.be/WNQiROr5_AY?si=Cmewjoz-81PqidJX

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Hello my name is Jeffery and i’m a marketing major.

“It’s somewhere that I never been before”

This song shows my experience as a university student because it represents the idea of wanting a better life and enjoying the moment while you’re still figuring things out. In college, everything feels new, and you are building your own version of “paradise” through your experiences, friendships, and independence. The part where it says wanting to wake up somewhere you’ve never been before connects to how college pushes you into new environments and situations.

At the same time, the lyrics show how that “paradise” feeling isn’t permanent it’s more about living in the moment. The lyrics talk about enjoying good times, ignoring distractions, and focusing on what feels right right now, which is something a lot of students can relate to while balancing school and social life.

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Hello, my name is Cayden and I'm a Computer Science major.

Song: "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing"

Artist: Incognito

Lyrics:

"Everybody needs a change
A chance to check out the new
You're the only one who see
The changes you take yourself through

Don't you worry 'bout a thing"

Personal Relevance:

I chose this song because as a freshman going into college (even though it's the second semester now) my life is changing in many ways, both big and small. The change mentioned in the lyrics is reflecting my own change going through college and balancing the work for all of my classes along with everything outside of school. So, while I may be getting overwhelmed with all the work, I slow myself down and worry about one thing at a time in order to take these changes in stride as I grow as a person and a student.

Link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWd5379FMGU

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Incognito - Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing

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Lyrics: " And she works too hard needs hard needs paradise"

My name is Kaylie and I am a nursing major. I connect with this song because I have been working nonstop on school that I need a vacation. This first year has shown me that I need to be able to work hard in order to play hard.

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Hello! I am Michael Jones Jr and I am majoring in Electrical Engineering Tech

I chose RYD by Steve Lacy because this was one of the first songs that I was introduced to of him and I've been a fan ever since. I relate to him as someone who wants to please others and want to make sure I can be the best I can.

Staple Lyrics:

"I see the way you lookin' at me through my peripheral
Vision pretty, baby, as I ride on this empty road
I'm just lookin' for somethin' to do
Asked if she was hungry, does she want any food. "

For the personal relevance is that: I'm really big on taking care of others and making sure to give compliments to another when it is due.

Growing up I made to sure to treat others like I would treat my mom with respect so I am very big on that.

Link: https://youtu.be/BCV_vlRDrsQ?si=jrn5uJx132b583N_

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Song: Live Your Life - Tantric

"Time and time again I cannot find the reason, Why my life is all right"

This song resonates with me, because at this point with graduation coming up in a month things are changing. That as things change it is easier to just go with the flow like water over a rock than to change the flow by dropping a log and closing a path.

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Hi, My name is Kate and I am currently a Parks and Recreation Management major, but currently in the middle of transferring into an architecture program.

Lyrics: "I've been learning
Grabbin' my keepsakes, leavin' my burdens
Well, I brought a few with me, I'm not perfect
Lookin' at the view like, this concerns me
Pickin' up the cues, right? I'm quite nervous
Hate it when I lose sight, life gets blurry
And things might hurt me
It's prolly gonna be a long journey, but hey
It's worth it, though"

I connect with these lyrics because in my journey throughout high school, my previous career, and college, I sometimes struggle with losing sight of why I'm really doing this. I get a little lost with the point of doing all this work, and it causes my performance to suffer. For me personally, it will also be a longer journey till I graduate and am out of school like the average adult.

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Song and Artist: "Don´t Stop Believin´ " - Journey

Short excerpt:

"Just a small-town girl, living in a lonely world"

"Don´t stop believin´"

This song feels personally meaningful to me because it reflects my experience as a small-town student who moved to the city to pursue a challenging university career. It mirrors how I sometimes feel living away from home and my family, also the determination and perseverance I need to continue studying, even when things become difficult.

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Journey - Don't Stop Believin' (Escape Tour 1981: Live In Houston)

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My name is Valentine I am majoring in cybersecurity. The song that I chose is Dull by Asake A lyric that stands out to me is the chorus of the song which is in a different language. He basically says that he can't be lazy if he wants to be successful for his people. This line connects me with me because I try to use that same mindset.

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Song: "Walking On A Dream"

Lyrics:

"We are always running for the thrill of it, thrill of it
Always pushing up the hill, searching for the thrill of it
On and on and on we are calling out, and out again
Never looking down, I'm just in awe of what's in front of me."

Personal Relevance:

I chose this song by Empire of the Sun because it's been a favorite of mine for years, and it relates a lot to college. I feel in college, we are always searching for a thrill or a good time, just in different ways. I think it is best not to dwell on the past but appreciate what is right in front of me. Although there is a lot of work to focus on and get done, we still need to appreciate the little things and pursue that thrill wherever we can find it.

Link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eimgRedLkkU&t=2s

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Hi everyone! My name is Santoshi, and I’m currently a Finance major. I’m interested in areas like investing, financial markets, and building a strong foundation for a future career in finance.

A song that reflects my experience as a student is “Hall of Fame” by The Script

A lyric that stands out to me is: “You can be the greatest, you can be the best.”

This line really connects to my journey as a student because college is a time where I’m constantly working to improve myself and reach my goals. There are challenges along the way, but this song motivates me to stay disciplined, push through setbacks, and keep striving for success. It reminds me that hard work and consistency can take you far, especially in a competitive field like finance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk48xRzuNvA

Looking forward to connecting with everyone and learning about your experiences!

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The Script - Hall of Fame (Official Video) ft. will.i.am

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Song: "Believer"

Artist: Imagine Dragons

Lyrics:

“Pain! You made me a, you made me a believer, believer” — this connects to how the challenges you face in college can actually shape you into a stronger, more resilient person.

Imagine Dragons often centers their music on struggle, pressure, and pushing through self-doubt, which are things a lot of college students deal with while balancing academics, identity, and future goals. It reflects the mindset of doing whatever is necessary to succeed, even when it feels overwhelming. As a college student, that drive to keep going despite stress and uncertainty mirrors the themes in their music.

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Song: "Whatever It Takes"

Artist: Imagine Dragons

Lyric excerpt:

Hypocritical, egotistical
Don't wanna be the parenthetical, hypothetical
Working onto something that I'm proud of, out of the box
An epoxy to the world and the vision we've lost
I'm an apostrophe
I'm just a symbol to remind you that there's more to see
I'm just a product of the system, a catastrophe
And yet a masterpiece, and yet I'm half-diseased
And when I am deceased
At least I go down to the grave and die happily

For me, this phrase captures the chaotic intensity of university life as you try to stay sane and keep your feet on the ground. Being a “catastrophe” reflects the exhaustion of juggling required credits, complicated schedules, and high-stakes exams that can leave you feeling stressed out. However, the drive to work on something “out of the box” reflects the desire to go beyond simply passing a class to truly mastering complex theories.

Although the process is exhausting, the knowledge and resilience you develop are your own “masterpiece.”

Link:

https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=cnRB2CgUpSw&si=_AOXPl96dlMlYsA3

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Artist: Louis Tomlinson

Song: Don't let it break your heart

Lyric excerpt:

"What hurts you is gonna pass

You'll have learnt from it when it comes back

You'll be doing better, yeah, doing better."

Personal Relevance:

I chose this song because it reflects how I feel as a university student. Sometimes studying can be stressful and challenging, but these lyrics remind me that difficult moments pass and that we can learn from them. The message of the song encourages me to keep going and trust that things will get better with time.

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Song: Alone, Pt. II- Alana Walker and Ava Max

Lyric: "We all need a soul to rely on, a shoulder to cry on
A friend through the highs and the lows."

I always enjoy listening to and singing this music. Alan Walker's music has cheered me during my worst times. This, in particular, I found out a few days before beginning university studies. My fears were harsh because of my failure the year before, but Alan and Ava indirectly advised me: "You're not gonna be alone. Trust in your new friends and family; they are always there." I'm so thankful for all my friends, classmates, and family for supporting me throughout my career.

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Song: Workin' for a Livin'

Artist: Huey Lewis and The News

Lyrics:

"Some days won't end ever and some days pass on by

I'll be working here forever, at least until I die

Damned if you do, damned if you don't

I'm supposed to get a raise week, you know damn well I won't

Workin' for a livin'

(Workin')

Workin' for a livin'

(Workin')

Workin' for a livin', livin' and workin'

I'm taking what they're giving 'cause I'm workin' for a livin'"

As an older student, my college experience seems far different than the starry-eyed freshman experience of my counterparts. For me, this is a pragmatic, no-nonsense job to accomplish. I'm grinding through it, not romanticizing. I can't afford to screw-up this opportunity. It's not at all like the 80's college movies led me to believe...

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcIK3akktLU&list=RDlcIK3akktLU

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Huey Lewis And The News - Workin' For A Livin'

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Song: Sacrifice - Mariah the Scientist

Lyrics: "It's been at least 300 days

I got stuck in your maze, huh

I'm all out of places to run

But we"ll find a way out."

Personal Relevance: I love Mariah the Scientist as a whole. She's been my top artist since 2022. I resonate with the lyrics because being in college feels like you're in a maze and can be challenging at times. You feel stuck with nowhere to go. Eventually, there will be a way out or a solution to your problem.

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Mariah the Scientist - Sacrifice (Official Lyric Video)

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Get Free - Lana del Rey

Talks about freedom, choosing our own path, I like it because it’s an uplifting song about the future, and I relate it to my university life because, as I said earlier, it’s about choosing my own path, have somos existencial crisis about it before entering university and this song helped me a lot on this problem. Also gives hope about that no matter what obstacles I might face, I know I’ll be able to overcome them

Lyrics:

Finally, I'm crossing the threshold

From the ordinary world to the reveal of my heart

Undoubtedly, that will for certain

Take the dead out of the sea and the darkness from the arts

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COIL TASK: 'Don't stop til you get enough' by Michael Jackson.    Brisa Xiomara Figueroa

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COIL TASK: 'Don't stop til you get enough' by Michael Jackson.    Brisa Xiomara Figueroa

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Michael Jackson is my favorite artist, and his music has been a part of my life at every stage, influencing me with a range of emotions and feelings. His songs have taught me invaluable life lessons, guiding me through various challenges. For example, “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” perfectly captures my university experience. The line “Keep on with the force, don’t stop / Don’t stop ’til you get enough” has been a constant source of motivation during my time at university. It reminds me to keep pushing forward through the tough moments of studying, exams, and assignments. The energy and perseverance in this song resonate with my determination to succeed in my studies and in life.

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Michael Jackson - Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough (Official Video - Upscaled)

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Song and artist: RISK, RISK, RISK! by Jhariah

Lyrics excerpt:
"I just can't take another day
I need some change
I need more to put behind my name
It's all the same"

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7GCJXsyxnw0&pp=ygUWcmlzayByaXNrIHJpc2sgamhhcmlhaA%3D%3D

I've chosen this song because I relate to some parts of it and I aspire to be this depiction of somebody that faces challenges head-on. To be able to face life head-on and not just university. I also wish I could be as upbeat as the song rhythm but I am not, I'm a rather gloomy person.

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Song: Set Me Free

Artist: Avenged Sevenfold

Excerpt:

"Touch the water with your own two hands

Let the freedom bell bring calm to a troubled land

But all I feel are my two feet in chains

I know the system, but I can't figure out the game."

This song, and specially the excerpt I've chosen, represents my constantly changing experience of being a university student.

It reflects how I try to relax and keep up with everything I have to do, but when I think I figured it out, it turns out I'm just getting lost and overwhelmed, and then the cycle continues. It also helps me to realize that I only need keep going and improve, so I'll finally earn a well deserved rest until the next semester.

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Avenged Sevenfold - Set Me Free [Official Audio]

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I chose tis song "Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen", because it reflects the energy and motivation I feel as a university student. Studying can be challenging, but this stage of life is also exciting and full of opportunities to grow.

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Queen - Don't Stop Me Now (Official Video)

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Ana Laura Ramírez Jara 

Song: Hard Times by Paramore

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Ana Laura Ramírez Jara 

Song: Hard Times by Paramore

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(Hard times) Hard times

(Hard times) Hard times

Gonna make you wonder why you even try

(Hard times)

Gonna take you down and laugh when you cry

I chose this song because I can relate to the lyrics. Sometimes these hard times (mid-term exams/finals/assignments) become overwhelming and can get the best of me, making me wonder if I can do it, stressing me out and even making me cry. As a college student, there are moments of uncertainty and doubts about my potential. However, the contrast between the lyrics and the upbeat music shows how even when college life is a lot, I can still enjoy it because of the many positive things I get to experience. I made new friends who make this journey a lot more enjoyable, and I get to fulfill my dream of getting a degree.

Full version: https://youtu.be/AEB6ibtdPZc?si=va_RJAH-4Ip6VfRQ

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This particular song is one I tend to listen to whenever I need to relax in the face of the problems or issues I have to deal with in my life. It talks about all the time we have left to live and how much pressure we put on ourselves day in, day out to achieve what we want, yet we fail to see that we are still young and should enjoy the journey we’re on to reach our dreams. Personally, I identify deeply with the part of the lyrics that goes like this:

"Slow down, you crazy child

And take the phone off the hook and disappear for a while

It's all right, you can afford to lose a day or two..."

Because throughout my studies, if there’s one thing I’ve learnt, it’s to allow myself to rest when I feel like everything’s going wrong, when I feel overwhelmed by everything I have to do but still want to put pressure on myself to see if that works, when the right thing to do is to give my mind and heart a break so that I can function properly. It’s not a bad thing if you can’t get up for a day or two, but you must know that the next day will be better than the last; you mustn’t put pressure on yourself for not being able to do everything today – tomorrow will be waiting for you just the same, and that is what university really means: carrying on no matter what, taking as long as it takes, but never giving up on the goal.

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Song: Vienna by Billy Joel

"Too bad, but it's the life you lead

You're so ahead of yourself that you forgot what you need

Though you can see when you're wrong

You know, you can't always see when you're right

You're right"

I have chosen this song because reflects my experience as a university student. I feel a lot of pressure to succeed quickly and finish my degree as soon as possible. I recognize my mistakes, but I struggle to see my successes. Sometimes I so much on university that I neglect other parts of my life. Overall, this song remains me to slow down and that I don't have to have everything figured out right now.

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Frank Ocean in Odd Future "Oldie" music video

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Song - Seigfried

Quote - " This is not my life, it's just a fond farewell to a friend."

I'm not from the city. The song describes almost perfectly how it feels to move out. How I fell in love when I got here, how I used to prefer living in the streets before leaving my place, I was not brave enough to take those steps. In the end, "I'd do anything for you ( In the dark)" feels like the acceptance, knowing its good for me, for my mom, for my friends and family, no matter where it is "(In the dark)"

https://youtu.be/RWgpBlz16-s?si=qKkW9vQh_5cQo2qb

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Song & Artist:

“This Is Me Trying” by Taylor Swift

Lyric Excerpt:

“At least I’m trying”

Personal Experience:

This song reflects my experience as a university student because it captures the feeling of trying your best even when things feel overwhelming or uncertain. Throughout my studies, there have been moments where I doubted myself or felt like I wasn’t doing enough.The song represents perseverance, self-awareness, and the quiet determination to keep going, even when success isn’t immediate

Link:

https://youtu.be/9bdLTPNrlEg?si=JSQ4rCQERBMboXtY

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Taylor Swift – this is me trying (Official Lyric Video)

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Song and Artist:

"This is me trying" by Taylor Swift

Lyrics excerpt:

"They told me all of my cages were mental
So I got wasted like all my potential
And my words shoot to kill when I'm mad
I have a lot of regrets about that
I was so ahead of the curve, the curve became a sphere
Fell behind all my classmates, and I ended up here
Pouring out my heart to a stranger
But I didn't pour the whiskey"

Personal relevance:

I chose this song because, for me, university hasn’t always been about achieving things; it’s been about showing up, even when things felt overwhelming. The song captures the feeling of doing your best when you’re not sure if it’s enough. It also speaks to the pressure and self-doubt I felt when I thought I was falling behind. But it's also about resilience and continuing to try despite everything. It reflects the hidden side of university life the late nights, the self-doubt and the quiet determination to persevere. It's not about having it all figured out; it's about trying anyway.'

Youtube link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bdLTPNrlEg

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Taylor Swift – this is me trying (Official Lyric Video)

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"Ya está saliendo el sol
Que es sin duda mi Dios
Aunque no cierre el ojo en toda la semana
Y tenga ganas de desmayarme en la cama
Voy a salir a recibir su bendición, oh Dios"

-Esta Saiendo el Sol - Intoxiados.

I chose this song because it expresses the feeling of being exhausted after not sleeping all night, yet still recognizing the beauty of a new day. Even if yesterday was difficult, today offers a chance for things to improve. I relate to this as a university student: there are moments when I feel overwhelmed or drained, but I still try to face each day with a positive attitude and a smile.

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Intoxicados - Esta Saliendo El Sol (Letra/Lyrics)