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The Traits of a Perfect Couple: What We Admire Most
Submitted by Steven Pham When we think of the perfect couple, images of love-filled moments, mutual respect, and unwavering support often come to mind. Whether it’s inspired by a romantic comedy or an Instagram post, society tends to paint an idealized picture of relationships. But what truly makes a couple “perfect”? Perfection doesn’t mean flawless, rather, it’s about the qualities that help couples thrive and grow together. Let’s take a look at some of the most cherished qualities that help a relationship endure and thrive over time. 1. Communication: The Foundation of Strong Relationships At the heart of every successful relationship is clear and honest communication. Perfect couples are those…
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How I Keep In Touch With Friends I Never See
Submitted by Will Chen As a college student, I have grown up with many friends, some of whom I do not get to see often. Graduating high school was an emotional time as the people I grew up with would soon go down their own paths and live their own lives. Three years into college, it is now apparent that maintaining the connections grown throughout the years of middle and high school would require effort. I do not get to see some of my closest friends for months. However, each time I see them in person, it is as if we haven’t spent even a day apart. This is thanks…
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My Best First Date Story
Submitted by Ruthie Suarez It was the end of October, with Halloween just around the corner– and I was about to head out for my first date ever in my life. I had never gone on one before so I wasn’t sure what to expect. We decided to go to a movie theatre on Main Street to watch Five Nights at Freddy’s. As a big fan of the game franchise, I was super excited. He had offered to buy the tickets for both of us beforehand so we could get good seats. At this time, I was so nervous that I kept fidgeting in my seat and thinking about what…
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Why Valentine’s Day Should Be Everyday
Submitted by Angelina Ng One of the most popular holidays in the month of February is Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day is represented to celebrate love, whether it is romantically, platonically, or pure admiration. Every year, on February 14th, loved ones express their love through words and actions. The National Retail Federation (NRF) conducted an annual survey, which resulted in a statistic that concluded that in 2024, Americans spent around $25.8 billion on Valentine’s Day. The average American spent over half their Valentine’s Day budget on their significant other. Additionally, Americans spend the majority on gifts for family members, friends, teachers, classmates, and even pets! February’s month encompasses a time of…
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A Letter To My Best Friends
Submitted by Daniella Avisado Dear Best Friend(s), If someone were to ask me what I’m most thankful for, my answer would be instant: you guys. That’s a question that doesn’t require any thought—because I’m so sure. Of course, I’m thankful for family, food, and good health, but you all are right up there at the top of the list. I think a lot of people underestimate the power of friendship. The difference it makes to be surrounded by good people is life-changing. Being able to find people who share the same values, morals, and lifestyle as you is a blessing. I’m lucky to say I’ve found mine. I’ve never met…
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Why I Always Finish Each Grain of Rice
Submitted by Ruthie Suarez “Every Grain of Rice: A Lesson from Nanay” Growing up, my Filipino nanay—my grandmother— was a source of endless wisdom and gentle teachings. When she moved to America she worked for S.O.M.E (So Others Might Eat) where they strive to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness. Her voice was a steady guide in my childhood, weaving lessons into my everyday life. Of all the teachings she taught me, one stuck with me the most: “Finish every grain of rice on your plate. There are hungry children in the Philippines who would give anything for what you have.” As a child, I didn’t fully understand her…
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Unspoken Struggles: A Gap with My Family
Submitted by Jodie Li Like everyone else, I’ve had my ups and downs. I’ve struggled, felt lost, and been overwhelmed, but these thoughts have never been shared with my family. It’s not that I don’t trust them—it’s that I don’t want to burden them. There’s also a part of me that worries they might not understand how I feel; worse, I fear they might even be disappointed. My parents, specifically, are traditional Chinese immigrants—strong-willed and hardworking. I wanted to appear just as strong, capable, and independent—the person they raised me to be. But in choosing not to share my struggles, I often felt disconnected from them, carrying burdens that might…
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Lies I’ve Told My Asian Parents (And Will Continue to Tell Them)
Submitted by Ruthie Suarez Growing up in a strict but loving household means navigating the trials of expectations and family traditions. In my journey, I’ve found that telling little white lies has become a survival skill. I know that sounds terrible but it works! Here are some common little lies I’ve told my Asian parents—and some I’ll probably keep telling them for years to come. 1. “I Never Go Out with Wet Hair” The classic fear my mom has against me: to go outside with wet hair. My mom surely believes this is a way to catch a cold, fever, or any other mysterious illness that might come upon me.…
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Lost in Translation: My Year in Vietnam and the English I Left Behind
Submitted by Steven Pham It was the spring of my third-grade year when my world shifted dramatically. My family decided to spend nearly a year in Vietnam, a choice that felt both exhilarating and daunting. Little did I know, this journey would lead me to a profound moment of change in my life. In Vietnam, everything was vibrant and new—the bustling streets filled with the sound of laughter and the fragrant aroma of street food. Surrounded by my family, I quickly became immersed in Vietnamese. With everyone speaking the language, I found myself picking it up effortlessly. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, while my English sat neglected…
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A Letter to My Past and Future Self
Dear Past and Future Me, I sit down to write this letter currently at the age of 20 years, 6 months, and 26 days. I find myself in a moment of reflection, caught between the memories of my past and the expectations of my future. At 20 years old, I stand on the threshold of adulthood as well as feeling like a child. I have thoughts of unrealistic dreams of the future like a child, but harsh realities headed my adult life. However...
