Everest English Blog

 Prompt Response: One thing that stood out to me was the book Wild. The process of Cheryl moving through her trauma despite all the things she has done and experienced was therapeutic for me. Along with the experience of her hiking the trail provides some entertainment for us the audience while she works out her trauma. It connects to my life because for me hiking is one of the easiest ways to healthily work through my trauma. 

 Prompt Response: The cultural group I found to be the most interesting was the Middle Eastern men, specifically how the film they used about terrorists was made before 9-11. I’d known the U.S for some time had strained relationships with the Middle East but I didn’t know they were making films poking fun at them too. It made me feel more sympathy for them that I didn’t have before because I lacked context.  Summary: In class we presented our cultural group project and listened to others do the same.  Reflection: I am Middle Eastern by blood, though I haven’t been raised in its culture. So it was nice to hear more about something distantly related to me. I’ll admit before after 9-11 I was understanding of American fear of Middle Easterns but having this film before that puzzles me. I know there was a history of a tug of war but to make films insulting your enemy seems low even if it was for fun. 

 Prompt Response: I think it has to be a combination of all three working together but if I had to pick one I valued more it would be my interest in a field. I have a hard time doing work for things I don’t deem to matter. So if I’m passionate about something, all the other details can fall into place but if I’m missing the passion then I could care less.  Summary: In class we did research about some different careers we are interested in.  Reflection: Financial benefits and stability are extremely important to me although they are not the first thing I look for. Though they are game changers. I won’t pursue something if I don’t think it can offer me these things. It needs to be a balance although passion and interest comes first. 

 Prompt Response: What is most exciting about graduating from high school is the prospect of going to college. I love that idea of independence while pursuing a personalized degree. The idea of less classes per week, that is mostly work done alone excites me greatly. I'm now 19 years old, and I've wanted to be on my own since I was 13 years old. Now this day is nearly upon me. For me graduating represents a building of what seem like my entire life to pursue what I want in life.  Summary: In class we watched a video about preparing for our future, and the ted talk assured us that changing career paths is normal and sometimes encouraged.  Reflection: I cannot wait to start the next portion of my life. I've dreamed of the following days for years now. Though now more than ever I'm aware of what I'm giving up. I'm saying goodbye to my home and environment hear. I won't get to see some of the people I adore as much because of where we are going to school. It is ...

 Prompt Response: I like the alternative style. I personally like what I wear but I enjoy being around those who wear clothing like this. I like it because it shows the connection we share in our culture and more than not love of shared music. People may assume these people are troubled or no good because of how they look, but in reality they are people just living too.  Summary: I was absent from class this day.  Reflection: I like people who openly wear how they feel on their sleeve. Its refreshing, so I enjoy being around people like them. We share an interest of common music but also a way in which we interact. We will tell it straight to one another, and that's a privilege not shared by many. 

 Prompt Response: A film that represents my culture in a meaningful way is The Great Gatsby. The film's portrayal of how materialism becomes more valued than relationships is relevant to me. My family often breaks up due to one member wanting to seek out their own goals particularly money. They are obsessed with this idea of a perfect life they chase, like many of the characters in The Great Gatsby. For example Daisy and Tom pursue this perfect lifestyle and do what it takes to preserve that.  Summary: I was absent from class.  Reflection: My family's chase of materialism confuses me and yet seems like the natural solution for us. Many of us grew up in poverty and extreme situations so we cope but pursing the top, the best this life can offer us. But it leads to us neglecting our relationships and what truly matters in life.