Diana Carolina Enciso Santana in UIC Collective Thoughts
Blog Post Written by Diana Carolina Enciso Santana Class of 2027
Miramar, FL- Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students, and features fiction, creative writing, and creative nonfiction pieces of work submitted by our undergraduate students.
Meet Diana Carolina, in her essay on American values, she highlights four key pillars: freedom, equality, individualism, and patriotism, which collectively define the nation’s ethos and identity, rooted in the principles of the Founding Fathers and shaping societal norms and aspirations.
American Values by Diana Carolina Enciso Santana
FREEDOM
One of the foundational values in American society is freedom. Rooted in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, the concept of freedom has been a guiding principle for the nation. Americans value the freedom to express their opinions, practice their chosen religion, and pursue their individual aspirations. This commitment to personal and political freedom is evident in the emphasis on civil liberties and the democratic system. Americans believe that freedom fosters innovation, creativity, and a diverse society. It is considered a fundamental right that shapes the national identity and influences policy decisions, reflecting the enduring influence of the Founding Fathers’ commitment to liberty.
EQUALITY
Equality is another core value that has evolved over time in American society. While the nation’s history includes periods of inequality, the pursuit of equal rights has been a driving force. The belief in equal opportunities and treatment for all is deeply ingrained in the American ethos. From the Civil Rights Movement to ongoing discussions about gender and LGBTQ+ rights, the commitment to equality reflects a shared desire for a just and inclusive society. The Founding Fathers’ principles of equality before the law and the pursuit of happiness continue to resonate, inspiring ongoing efforts to address social injustices and disparities.
INDIVIDUALISM
Individualism is a distinctive American value that emphasizes the importance of personal autonomy and self-reliance. The idea that individuals can shape their destinies through hard work and determination is deeply ingrained in American culture. This value is reflected in the celebration of entrepreneurial spirit and the belief in the “American Dream.” While communal bonds and societal cooperation are acknowledged, individualism remains a defining trait. The Founding Fathers’ emphasis on individual rights and liberties has contributed to a culture that values personal responsibility and the pursuit of one’s unique goals and aspirations.
PATRIOTISM
Patriotism is a pervasive value in American society, reflecting a deep love and loyalty to the nation. Rooted in the sacrifices of the Revolutionary War, this value is evident in displays of national pride, such as the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of the national anthem. Patriotism is not just about love for the land but also a commitment to the principles enshrined in the Constitution. The Founding Fathers’ dedication to creating a nation where citizens actively participate in shaping its destiny has contributed to the enduring sense of patriotism. This value is seen as a unifying force that transcends differences and fosters a shared identity among Americans.
Celebrating Art and Activism: The Day I Heard the Sounds of the World Premiere
Blog Post Written by Valerie Seguin
Art has always been a vehicle for social change, a medium through which voices are amplified, narratives are reshaped, and communities are united. On March 21st, 2024, the Miami Museum of Contemporary Art of the African Diaspora (MoCAAD) welcomed artists, scholars, and activists to the premiere of The Day I heard the Sounds of the World: Art Connecting Communities – Overtown and Coral Gables (2024), a documentary by Michael Anderson, Five-X Regional Emmy-Award Winning Filmmaker/Storyteller, and featuring the groundbreaking work of Marielle Plaisir.
This event marked a significant milestone in the museum’s journey to discover, commission, and preserve the work of the most advanced contemporary artists of the Global African Diaspora and Africa itself.
At the heart of this premiere was the unveiling of Marielle Plaisir’s latest masterpiece, “The Day I heard the Sounds of the World: Art Connecting Communities – Overtown and Coral Gables.” Plaisir, a multimedia artist and activist, has long been dedicated to exploring the themes of domination, supremacy, and social justice. Her work transcends traditional boundaries, encompassing painting, sculpture, photography, installation, film, and performance. Through her art, she delves into the complexities of colonialism, race, class, and the construction of identity.
Plaisir’s artistic practice is deeply rooted in research and documentation, drawing from documentary history, literature, and sound sources to craft visually striking and emotionally resonant pieces. Her ability to fluidly navigate various mediums allows her to create powerful visual experiences that challenge harmful narratives and offer glimpses of hope for a more equitable future. Marielle Plaisir’s solo exhibition “Strange Fruits” is currently on view at the Coral Gables Art Museum. Her new work “The Day I Heard the Sounds of the World” will join the “Strange Fruits” exhibition and will be on view from April 5-28, 2024.
The premiere of Plaisir’s exhibition was accompanied by a fireside chat featuring esteemed guests Dr. Dorothy J. Fields and Marilyn Holifield. Dr. Fields, a luminary in the preservation of African-American heritage, shared insights into her lifelong mission to raise awareness of South Florida’s black history. Her tireless efforts, including the establishment of Miami’s Black Archives and the designation of historic sites, have paved the way for a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Similarly, Marilyn Holifield, a trailblazer in the legal profession and arts advocate, brought her unique perspective to the conversation. As the first black woman partner of a major law firm in Florida, Holifield’s journey exemplifies resilience and commitment to breaking barriers. Her passion for the arts, nurtured since childhood, underscores the importance of cultural expression in shaping identity and fostering social change.
To enhance the vibrancy of the event, independent recording artist Alexander Star graced the audience with a captivating performance. With a knack for merging entertainment with social impact, Star added an extra layer of depth to the premiere, echoing the themes of activism and empowerment woven throughout Plaisir’s work.
Beyond the physical exhibition, attendees were treated to a mix-and-mingle virtual reality art experience, marking a significant milestone for MoCAAD. The launch of this virtual reality and augmented reality museum experience signifies a bold step towards expanding access to art and culture on a global scale. Soon, audiences around the world will have the opportunity to engage with multilingual art, spoken word, and music experiences, further amplifying the museum’s mission of inclusivity and accessibility.
Communication students from United International College (UIC) were particularly drawn to attend this event due to the inherent interdisciplinary nature of their field of study. Communication encompasses various disciplines, including media studies, cultural studies, and public relations, all of which intersect with the themes explored in Marielle Plaisir’s artwork and the discussions at the premiere. By immersing themselves in this cross-disciplinary environment, communication students were able to broaden their perspectives and deepen their understanding of how communication functions within the context of contemporary art and activism. Moreover, attending events like the MoCAAD premiere allows communication students to cultivate their critical thinking skills, enhance their visual literacy, and gain valuable insights into the role of communication in shaping cultural narratives and fostering social change. As future communicators, their participation in such events catalyzes their academic and professional growth, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to make meaningful contributions to society through their communication practice.
For faculty and students from art classes at United International College, this event also served as an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of art and activism. Through Plaisir’s evocative artwork, Dr. Fields’ dedication to preserving heritage, Holifield’s trailblazing leadership, and Star’s dynamic performance, attendees were invited to reflect on their roles as agents of change in their communities and beyond.
As we celebrate this momentous occasion, let us continue to champion artists, scholars, and activists who dare to challenge the status quo and envision a more just and equitable world through their creativity and passion.
Join us in exploring the intersection of art and activism at Miami MoCAAD, where every brushstroke tells a story, and every voice is heard.
Mikael Silva in UIC Collective Thoughts
Blog Post Written by Mikael Silva, Class of 2027
Miramar, FL- Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students, and features fiction, creative writing, and creative nonfiction pieces of work submitted by our undergraduate students.
Meet Mikael, a keen observer of American society, whose insightful essay delves into the fundamental values that define the fabric of contemporary America. From his experiences transitioning from Brazil to Virginia and immersing himself in the vibrant culture of Miami, Mikael’s exploration captures the essence of American values with depth and clarity. Join us as we embark on a journey through Mikael’s reflections, gaining new perspectives on freedom, opportunity, and individualism, and their enduring significance in shaping the American identity.
American Values by Mikael Silva
First, I lived in Ferrum, Virginia and it was a totally different experience compared to my hometown in Brazil and Miami. Also, I have visited some places in the United States of America such as New York, Maryland, and North Carolina. Everywhere I went I observed differences in behavior, property, lifestyle, and ethics. In the Ferrum, I had a more country life and in Miami a beachier vibe which is very similar to life in Brazil.
One of the fundamental values deeply ingrained in American society is the search for freedom. Based on the nation’s founding principles, Americans value the ability to make choices, express opinions, and live without unjustified restrictions. This value includes political freedoms, such as the right to free speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of assembly. It also extends to personal autonomy and the individual life pursuit. The belief in liberty as a fundamental value is evident in documents such as the Declaration of Independence, which set out the fundamental rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Today, the concept of liberty continues to shape American identity and informs debates on issues ranging from civil liberties to economic policy.
American society values opportunity – the belief that hard work, determination, and talent should be recognized with the chance to achieve success and prosperity. This value is deeply rooted in the American Dream, the idea that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve their goals through merit and effort. From the original frontier spirit of expansion westward to the promise of social mobility, the belief in opportunity has inspired the aspirations of generations of Americans. While challenges such as economic inequality and systemic divides persist, the belief in the transformative power of opportunity remains a driving force in American society.
American society places a high value on individualism, the idea that each person is unique and has a value and humanity of their own. This value is based on the belief that individuals should be free to pursue their own interests and goals without interference from the government or society. Individualism is celebrated in American culture through narratives of personal success, the importance placed on personal autonomy, and the emphasis on individual rights and responsibilities. While this value can sometimes lead to a sense of rigid independence, it also promotes innovation, creativity, and the search for individual achievement.
In conclusion, the ideals supported by the Founding Fathers—individualism, equality, freedom, and democracy—remain relevant in contemporary American culture. The significance of individual liberty, equal opportunity, civil freedoms, and civic participation is emphasized by these ideals. They create social change, creativity, and advancement by adding to the vibrant and varied fabric of American culture. Even while the country is still facing difficulties and inequality, the persistent dedication to these fundamental principles acts as a light of hope, encouraging citizens to work into a more ideal union in which everyone is free to follow their aspirations and advance the common good.
Cagdas Sanligencler in UIC Collective Thoughts
Blog Post Written by Cagdas Sanligencler Class of 2027
Miramar, FL- Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students, and features fiction, creative writing, and creative nonfiction pieces of work submitted by our undergraduate students.
Discover the essence of American values through Cagdas Sanligencler’s insightful essay, where he explores themes like change, equality, informality, and time. Join us on a journey through the intricacies of contemporary American society, as Sanligencler delves into what these values mean and how they shape our everyday lives.
Literary Essay- American Values by Cagdas Sanligencler
Change and Mobility
America has this amazing power to shape people’s stories. What keeps America exciting is
how people always welcome change, making things grow with new ideas, being able to
adapt, and making positive social changes. The idea of going up in life, which we call the
American Dream, is like a quiet message saying, “Hey, no matter where you’re from, you can
totally go up and change your story.” Also, the ability to move around, change jobs, or start
over is like showing how strong we are – getting back up after tough times. In this place
where we often reinvent things, we don’t get scared of change; we like it. Moving around isn’t
just a far-off dream; it’s something we’re born with, making our ongoing story about moving
forward and having lots of possibilities.
Equality
Equality is a cornerstone of American values, deeply ingrained in the nation’s history and
ethics. I know its significance and impact on both my life and the lives of others.
Equality is really important for a couple of reasons. First of all, it’s a big idea in the United
States-the belief that all people are created equal. It is written in the Declaration of
Independence and it says that every person has value. Equality also helps people get along
better. When everyone has the same opportunities, it makes things fair. Think of it as
everyone playing the game by the same rules. And it’s not just a rule, it’s about treating
people with respect. Like school, work, or laws, equality makes sure that no one is left out or
treated badly. It’s about making sure that everyone has a fair chance to do well.
Informality
Informality holds a significant place in American culture, influencing interactions, language,
and behavior. I appreciate its role and impact on American society for several reasons. First,
it is consistent with the fundamental principle of equality, as Americans believe in treating
everyone with respect, regardless of social status. Informality plays a critical role in breaking
down barriers and fostering a sense of inclusiveness. In addition, casual interactions
contribute to openness and create a friendly atmosphere where people, such as store clerks
and waiters, often introduce themselves by their first names. This practice reflects the
American spirit of accessibility and connectedness. Finally, informality allows for flexibility
and adaptability, demonstrating Americans’ comfort with change in various aspects, including
dress, language, and daily routines.
Time
In the busy rhythm of American life, time is super important, it’s like precious money.
Americans really care about being efficient and on time for things like meetings or classes
because they believe that time equals productivity. Time is not just a ticking clock; it’s a
chance to make dreams come true. If you miss a moment, you miss an opportunity. Time
also keeps things moving, like when new ideas and changes happen, from cool tech startups
to important discoveries. In this place where every second counts, time is not just a ticking
clock; it’s the steady beat of ambition that makes dreams possible.
Maria Malaver in UIC Collective Thoughts
Blog Post Written by Maria Malaver Class of 2027
Miramar, FL- Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students, and features fiction, creative writing, and creative nonfiction pieces of work submitted by our undergraduate students.
Today we embark on a compelling exploration of American values through the unique lens of immigration, as presented by Maria Malaver in her insightful essay.
American Value through an Immigrant’s Perspective by Maria Malaver
We can define value as a person’s morals or ethical standards; their assessment of what matters in life. Those values define the behaviors of human beings in society, their relationships with others, their beliefs, and their achievements. For American people, as I have observed for the past five years, there are some values that they follow like; individualism, the importance of time, direct communication, and freedom.
We can interpret individualism as a value that emphasizes the rights, freedoms, and autonomy of the individual. Americans often prioritize personal choices, self-reliance, and the pursuit of individual happiness and success. This value encourages independence, entrepreneurship, and personal responsibility. This is something that you can see in any atmosphere around, for example, I’ve noticed that now of paying a bill at a restaurant, they prefer to do it separately. For example, they don’t want someone else to pay for something that they consume even though it’s a celebration or something important.
Another value is the importance of time, if you invite any American to your house or a meeting in a restaurant, they will be on time at exactly the hour that you said. For me as a Latin woman, that was new and more respectful than what we do in Latin America. Because if someone tells you to arrive home at 7, that means to arrive at 8, I know that does not make any sense!! But that is not how we grew up and now I have tried to change that to the American way. You can’t play with people’s time and should consider all Latinos around the US.
Generally, Americans value clear and factual communication. Of course, this can vary depending on the individual, but overall, you will find that Americans will choose to be direct, even if it means hurting or embarrassing another person. For me, it seems rude at the beginning, but through the years I found that important because sometimes people don’t take you seriously or they expect that you say what they want to hear and not what they really need.
Last but not least we have freedom value, a fundamental American ideal, freedom comes from the idea of liberty. The freedoms of expression, assembly, speech, and religion are greatly valued in America. This principle supports the notion that people must be free to live their lives following their own morals and convictions, so long as they do not violate the rights of others. I would say that one is my favorite one, the peace that you can breathe here talking about freedom than in my country Colombia is huge. Not only in the religion, but it is also more about what you really want to do with your life and there’s no one around judging you for that.
To conclude these statements, it seems that those values came years ago when the Founding Fathers of the United States provided valuable insights into the values and ethics that shaped the nation and continue to be influential today. They work so hard to make this country free and have those important values that make this a good society.
Collective Thoughts UIC Students Spring 2024
Blog Post Written by Dr. Debbie Mendez
Miramar, FL- Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students, and features fiction, creative writing, and creative nonfiction pieces of work submitted by our undergraduate students.
Our mission is to provide a platform to showcase the unique voice of the developing and emerging writer and to foster the love of writing.
During January and February, we as Americans, take time to celebrate the men and women who have made an impact on American life. In January, we celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King and in February we celebrate President’s Day. These national holidays pay homage to the remarkable leadership and enduring legacies of the leaders who shaped our nation. During this time of reflection, we would like to share our thoughts and give thanks to those who came before us!
Stay tuned to read the essays of :
Diana Carolina Enciso, Class of 2027
Maria Malavar, Class of 2027
Cagdas Sanligencler, Class of 2027
Mikael Silvia, Class of 2027
Exploring the Behind the Scenes of WPLG Local 10: A Fascinating Learning Experience
Blog Post Written by Valerie Seguin
Pembroke Park, FL- On a sunny Tuesday, March 5, 2024, students and faculty from United International College- UIC- embarked on an eye-opening visit to WPLG Local 10, a renowned television channel in South Florida. Led by Mayte Padron, the Community Relations Director of Local 10, the visit offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the dynamic world of broadcast journalism and production.
The experience began with a captivating voyage through time, tracing the rich history of Local 10 since its inception in 1957. From its humble beginnings to its evolution through different locations, owners, and pivotal moments, the chronological exploration provided invaluable insights into the channel's growth and impact on the local community.
Venturing further into the heart of the station, the group stepped into the bustling newsroom, an open space buzzing with activity as reporters worked tirelessly to cover breaking stories. With Mayte Padron's guidance, visitors had the unique opportunity to stand at the reporters' desks, immersing themselves in the adrenaline rush of recording a breaking news segment.
Amidst the flurry of activity, the group encountered William Damas, the Chief Photographer of Local 10. With over 19 years of experience, Damas shared his expertise in managing a team of photographers and editors, offering a glimpse into the meticulous process of capturing and editing news content. His dedication to excellence and attention to detail emphasizes the station's commitment to delivering high-quality journalism.
Professor of Communications & Mass Media at UIC, Joey Lamar Ashley stated: “I am incredibly proud that our communications and business students had the opportunity to learn, first-hand about the importance and impact of broadcasting journalism and newsroom production on this tour. This is a pivotal time for mass media influence, and it’s always a great highlight for me to have our students at UIC come on these spectacular tours to really see that their passions are valid and that they can become the future storytellers of the newsroom.’’
Continuing their exploration, the group delved into the control and production rooms, witnessing the master control at work. Responsible for overseeing the technical operations of broadcasting, the master control team ensures the seamless transmission of programs, commercials, and other content. This critical behind-the-scenes role highlighted the intricate coordination required to maintain a flawless on-air experience for viewers.
Edward Espinoza, a Mass Media and Communications Bachelor student at UIC observed “It was really good and educational to get to know how things work behind the scenes. The responsibility that every person has to bring a clear message to the audience was really inspirational.”
The journey culminated in an unforgettable encounter with the faces of Local 10: anchors Kristi Krueger and Jenise Fernandez, along with weather producer Jordan Patrick. Warm and welcoming, the anchors graciously shared insights into their roles, while Jordan Patrick offered fascinating insights into the intricacies of weather forecasting and the use of green screens.
Reflecting on the visit, Mayte Padron emphasized the importance of exposing students to the diverse array of careers within the television industry. From journalism and production to meteorology and community outreach, Local 10 showcased the myriad opportunities available to aspiring professionals.
“It was a pleasure to host the multinational students of United International College at our Local 10 studios. The students’ varied interests in writing, editing, and animation speak to broadcast journalism’s mass appeal. We wish them continued success in the field and are honored to have played a role in their journey.” added Padron.
As the group bid farewell to Local 10, they departed with a newfound appreciation for the dedication and passion that fuels the world of broadcast journalism. The visit served as a testament to the power of storytelling and the vital role that media plays in shaping our understanding of the world around us.
“We are so grateful to Mayte Padron and WPLG for giving UIC Communications and Mass Media students the opportunity to witness the behind-the-scenes of their production studios. Media industry tours are highly inspirational for our students as they demonstrate what their future can become.” Dr. Marcela Moyano, Director of Communications and Advancement at UIC.
The visit to Local 10 Channel was made possible through the collaboration between the Communications and Mass Media program of United International College and the Community Relations Department of Local 10, exemplifying the importance of fostering connections between academia and industry to provide students with invaluable real-world experiences.
Future Entrepreneurs Showcase Their Business
Blog Post Written by Prof. Rose
Miramar, Florida – Students in Professor Jack J. Rose’s Business Expo class will showcase their business at the Fall Business Expo Showcase on Friday, December 8th, at United International College, 3130 Commerce Boulevard, Miramar from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. in the Dr. Alberto Moyano Auditorium.
MD Alif Uddin Abir’s Coastal Manufacturing Company specializes in manufacturing high-quality products for various industries, utilizing advanced technologies and efficient processes.
Etereo House is the brainchild of Azul Barrios, a combination of a restaurant and nightclub to be located in Buenos Aires, Argentina. With a fusion of both, Etereo House will be a two-story establishment, with the restaurant on the first floor and the nightclub on the second floor. Her target market is college students because Etereo House will be a meeting place for nightlife and networking with peers.
Nedge Beubrun looks forward to opening Nedge’s Haitian Restaurant and enhancing the image of Haiti by showcasing their culture and flavorful foods. Her primary target market is the ever-increasing Haitian population and her secondary market will be introducing the Haitian culture and cuisine to non-Haitians.
A professional tennis player, Mariano Cabrera looks forward to opening Competition Tennis Academy, a high-performance tennis academy where children learn, grow, compete and develop as players in tournaments to reach a professional level. Mariano has traveled the world showcasing his exceptional tennis skills and his enthusiasm will result in successful entrepreneurial enterprise.
Cruz Developers is a web development company that provides customized solutions for clients through coding and programming. Entrepreneur, Elian Guillermo Cruz Rivera, intends to provide services for website design development, maintenance, and support to his primary target market, medium-sized businesses that require professional and efficient web development solutions, helping clients grow their online presence and enhance their digital marketing strategies.
Perspectuvas Cruz Photography is a professional photography business dedicated to capturing the beauty and significance of life’s most memorable moments. Entrepreneur, Elin Guillermo Cruz Rivera, has always had a passion for photography and is a believer in creating exceptional visual stories, that will be treasured forever.
Hotel Lindeza is the dream of entrepreneur, Luis Hernandez, to provide lodging services offering a variety of rooms/suites with many amenities, such as a fitness center and a restaurant focusing on providing a healthy lifestyle for their guests. Luis has always been a sports participant and, as a member of the UIC Baseball Team, he recognizes how difficult it is to be a sports enthusiast while maintaining a healthy lifestyle when traveling, whether for work or on a vacation. Luis also loves to be around people from all over the world and looks forward to welcoming global guests.
Gallardo’s Healthy Food is a meal prep and delivery service conceived by entrepreneur, George Gallardo, a member of the UIC Baseball Team. His business provides healthy pre-made meals to individuals and families with busy schedules who are keen on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. His goal is to convince customers and clients that junk food is unhealthy and his services are geared to educating everyone how a healthy lifestyle can become your best friend. His primary target market are individuals age 20-40 and his secondary market are for those over 40 that includes educational classes on nutritious foods that contribute to longer lives.
Jajees Pack & Ship is a professional preparation, packaging, and shipping service created by entrepreneur, Moeez Tanveer. His business specializes in assisting individuals and businesses with preparing documents, and securely packaging items for shipping, and coordinating the logistics to ensure safe and timely delivery. His target market is small and medium-sized businesses, and individuals needing cost-effective shipping solutions. His secondary market is e-commerce sellers needing safe and secure packaging and delivery of merchandise to their clients.
Reflections on Life by Edward Espinoza, Class of 2026
Blog Post Written by Edward Espinoza, Class of 2026
“This season, we pause to give thanks for our incredible students here at UIC.” Dr. Deborah Mendez, Collective Thoughts Editor
We´re all familiar with the fact that being a rockstar is a synonym for party, deprivation, excess and many other outrageous activities. Sex, drugs, and rock & roll has been the standard classification of an unbridled lifestyle that most musicians have accomplished through the years in order to maintain a status within the media and the audiences. But this behavior is getting into a more complicated place when it comes to explaining the reasons for premature deaths in the industry.
Being a musician, besides the personal satisfaction of playing, composing and being creative with others, contains a lot of emotions and uncertainty when it comes to understanding the behavioral aspect before performing live, doing an interview or simply being the focus of the media environment on a daily basis. Some people in the industry are extroverted and like to be the center of attention, while others are shy, introverted and quiet, with a natural tendency and commitment with the music and the audience.
Taylor Hawkins, an amazing drummer with an unbeatable talent and a powerful connection with the people was touring with his band (Foo Fighters) in 2022 as a part of their South American tour. They’ve played in Chile, Argentina and Colombia, but before playing in the last country and going to stage, he started to feel sick and experienced a lot of chest pain. He called 911 from his hotel room asking for help, but when the paramedics arrived it was too late. He was pronounced dead at the age of 50 years, on March 25th of 2022. He was suffering with insecurities, depression, personal deficiencies and stage fright, which he can only control by taking different types of medications, including antidepressants. The toxicological report states that more than ten different types of drugs were found in his body. He was the drummer for the Foo Fighters for almost 26 years and now he’s gone.
Mental issues can affect us all without even knowing how to manage or behave in specific situations. He was having a mental disorder by not being emotionally stable and not being able to show how he really felt while playing live or being in a crowded place. He sadly chose the path of drug use, even though he wasn’t a drug addict, that was the only thing that kept him away from his fears and insecurities. He had a beautiful family, an amazing band, and influenced a lot of drummers (including me), but this wasn’t enough for him in order to feel complete and blissful.
Being mentally and emotionally stable is more important than being the center of attention and this is why we need to encourage ourselves to maintain a solid awareness and relationship with our emotions and feelings without being affected of what other people think or by the media glorification for being a rockstar that could attract more people, money, readers and viewers all over the world. It’s important to feel good on the inside so we can share our emotions in a more healthy way and with a positive perspective when it comes to doing what we love.
Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students, and features fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and art submitted by our undergraduate students. Our mission is to provide a plat-form to showcase the unique voice of the developing and emerging writer and to foster the love of writing.