Anders 340

  “Social media is what’s wrong with the world today!” We’ve all heard this statement from our grandparents and we always roll our eyes and dismiss them. But what if they were right? Social media grants people access to easily stay in touch with friends and family, communicate their voices around the world, and share funny cat videos. However, major social media platforms have become hubs for negativity, such as violent or harmful content, to be spread globally. Project Positive Engagement And Creative Expression (or PEACE) hopes to combat negativity in social media by encouraging major companies to promote PEACE over hate. PEACE would work alongside other major companies, such as news companies and popular influencers to promote content that promotes the positive aspects of the world, such as wholesome videos, scenic views of nature, or updates on how the world is improving.  I am passionate about the PEACE project because people consume so much negativity on a daily basis, b...

As an International Relations major, I frequently read about conflict, wars, and corruption. While I read those assigned readings, I often think about how all the negative aspects of the world are often what get the spotlight, even though there is so much good that is not talked about. The same countries that have the highest corruption and crime rates also have some of the most beautiful people with the kindest hearts, but that is never discussed by the media or the readings. The average person has a good heart, but that is not an entertaining story, so it is blocked away by more eye-catching stories, like violence and people having different values.    I believe that the advancements in technology and social media has contributed to some of the negativity produced in the world, but I also believe it has so much potential to show the world how much good there is around us. I have watched so many stories of people helping strangers for nothing more than to brighten someone's d...

Pickleball I have recently picked up playing pickleball with friends and it has been such a fun way to go outside and be active. Pickleball is a sport that lies somewhere between tennis and ping pong, with more of an athletic demand that one would expect. You can either play 1v1 or 2v2 (fair warning: 1v1 matches become tiring very quickly). There are a lot of rules that make pickleball unique (which I won’t go into too much detail about since it is confusing without being able to play the game while learning). One of the game’s odd rules regards The Kitchen: an area in the center of the court that players are not allowed to step in to return hits unless the ball has touched the ground prior. This is one of many odd rules that makes pickleball so much fun because it makes the players have to implement strategies that are different from other sports.  Pickleball is rapidly rising in popularity. While some may see the sport as an alternative to tennis for people who are not as physica...