This column is dedicated to my “writing playlist.” The compilation of approximately 30 songs that has played in the background while I’ve written nearly every essay or story throughout my South career.  The...

I only remember one thing about my first day of freshman year of high school. I was really, really scared. I look back and see myself stumbling through the halls, lost during the passing period,...

My dad’s favorite quote by Rumi, one of the greatest Persian poets of all time, questions our inability to embrace our most outstanding qualities; for “[if we] were born with wings, why prefer to crawl...

I’ve never been someone who jumps with joy when hearing the word “exercise.”  I used to grimace at this word because I associated it with uncomfortable and unenjoyable activities. I thought exercise...

“Do you think greater social acceptance of people who are transgender is…” “a. Very good for society.” “b. Somewhat good for society.” “c. Neither good nor bad for society.” “d....

I remember when I watched the Disney movie “Encanto” for the first time. I loved the catchy songs and the genuine Latinx representation, but aside from the fun characters and songs, the movie explored...

I remember the exact moment I thought we had finally made it to the end of the pandemic. Newly vaccinated and unmasked, I was seeing A Quiet Place II in theaters. It felt freeing, that life would return...

“How are we going to pay for that?” Whether it’s a widely-popular infrastructure bill or a climate program, the first question on everyone’s mind is: where the money is going to come from? The...

Christmas is my favorite holiday.  Ever since I was little, I have counted down the days on my chocolate Advent calendar. I love the holiday because we get to spend time with family and friends, but...