Emma Smith, Wesleyan University, Author at Study Breaks

back to class playlist illustration by June Le

5 Songs for Your Back to Class Mix

Every new semester merits a new playlist. These five tracks are the staples of mine.…

October 8, 2020

4 Ways That Season 2 of ‘Trinkets’ Improves on Season 1

Thanks to character-driven storylines that are even more compelling than the first season, the show avoids falling into a second-season-slump.…

October 1, 2020

In an article about The Scaredy Cats Horror Show podcast, a shot from horror movie Get Out

If You Hate the Horror Genre Then You’ll Love ‘The Scaredy Cats Horror Show’

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

The new podcast is helping people learn how to deal with their fear of watching horror movies.…

September 12, 2020

Zendaya from Euphoria in purple makeup against a black background

‘Euphoria’ Shows Why Transformative Justice Should Be the Norm

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

HBO’s show offers a crystal clear picture of why communities need new ways to resolve conflicts and combat interpersonal violence.…

September 7, 2020

In an article about the coronavirus and living with parents in the medical profession, a photo of a doctor holding a stethoscope

How My Medical Professional Parents Shaped My View of the Coronavirus

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

I’ve come to understand the pandemic through a scientific lens, thanks to the medical insights of my parents. …

August 28, 2020

An illustration of the Glass Animals "Dreamland" album cover

Glass Animals’ ‘Dreamland’ Uses Multimedia To Redefine the Album Release

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

Their latest record is far more than just a collection of songs: Here’s a closer look at how the band has changed the game when it comes to debuting new music.…

August 25, 2020

In an article about her new EP, minor, a photo of Gracie Abrams in her bedroom with her recording equipment

Gracie Abrams’ ‘Minor’ Is an Honest EP About Young Love

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

At just 20 years old, the singer-songwriter passionately weaves lyrics about teenage romance and heartbreak into her debut EP.…

August 13, 2020

The cast of Hamilton on stage during a performance

The Pros and Cons of Being a Second Wave ‘Hamilton’ Fan

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

Even though I became obsessed with the theatrical masterpiece four years after everyone else, there are some upsides to experiencing the musical in 2020.…

August 11, 2020

The cover of The Third Hotel by Laura van den Berg

‘The Third Hotel’ Is Strangely Relevant During These Uncertain Times

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

The psychological realism of Laura van den Berg's second book parallels the isolation many are feeling during the pandemic.…

August 1, 2020

In an article about the what animal are you Instagram trend, a photo of two poodles in sunglasses

A Closer Look at ‘What Animal Are You,’ the Latest Instagram Sensation

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

Social media stories are awash with various images that correspond to users’ names. But where do these entertaining photos come from?…

July 28, 2020

The Fab Five of Queer Eye sit on couches together

How ‘Queer Eye’ Both Fails and Succeeds at Representation

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

The depiction of queer people on the show's fifth season is reigniting questions about how LGBTQ+ characters are portrayed in the media.…

July 18, 2020

Dancers on Dance Moms wait for instruction during rehearsal

Is ‘Dance Moms’ a Feminist Show?

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

The reality TV sensation features fierce rivalry, but it also offers a lens into female empowerment and dynamic female representation.…

July 11, 2020

Characters from Love, Victor standing in a crowd

‘Love, Victor’ Is a Triumph of Queer Representation

Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

Hulu's 'Love, Simon' spin-off, with its complex story about sexuality and understanding oneself, is just what the teenage high school television canon needs.…

July 3, 2020