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Perspectives

Nam Knows Best: The hills are alive and you can be too

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I’m going to vent for a minute on the behalf of, well, everyone: nothing is right. Nothing. I feel like I am a walking disclaimer of “fine, but not quite good enough.” Whether it be classes or a grade on a test or a particular friendship that is just not where I want it to be or the more superficial but just as impactful to my morning routine running out of coffee on a Monday — … [Read more...] about Nam Knows Best: The hills are alive and you can be too

Part II: There is a Difference between Islam and IS

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Editor’s note: This is the second of a two-part series exploring the differences between Islam and IS. Read part I here.  The Problem with the Western Perspective Western media has not done a good job representing the Muslim population in a balanced or even accurate manner. The impact of that neglect has been very negative in terms of the treatment of Muslims and … [Read more...] about Part II: There is a Difference between Islam and IS

The Cost of My Skyline: A Reflection on Shanghai

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Answering where I call home is always tricky. As I say “Shanghai,” rhyming it with an American vernacular to “Slang-high,” I grimace and anticipate the shock. “Wow, your English is really amazing,” is usually the first response. Following a series of “Wow, were you adopted?” or “Did you come here when you were really young?” I finish the song and dance of explaining that … [Read more...] about The Cost of My Skyline: A Reflection on Shanghai

Until the Pink Ribbon, I Wasn’t Aware of Breast Cancer

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I was not aware breast cancer existed until I saw your pink ribbon. As Breast Cancer Awareness Month just came to an end, we say goodbye to Halloween and pink ribbon paraphernalia. Pink merchandise, along with no-shave November, the ice-bucket challenge and a host of other forms of activism that generate a visceral response from the public, as I see it, create and sustain a … [Read more...] about Until the Pink Ribbon, I Wasn’t Aware of Breast Cancer