Benjamin Chen, Columbia University, Author at Study Breaks

in an article about economics courses, a computer with a stocks line graph

Economics Courses Aren’t Just for Economics Majors

No matter what you're studying, the lessons you learn in these classes can still apply to your day-to-day life.…

June 3, 2021

An illustration of the Douyin/TikTok symbol for an article about the Chinese app's benefits. (Illustration by Julie Chow, University of California, Berkeley)

Douyin Is the Captivating Chinese Counterpart to TikTok

Social media influencers and members of the public alike are benefitting from the way in which this Beijing-based app allows for dissipating and receiving information.…

May 26, 2021

A photo of marketing graphics for an article about why marketing courses are beneficial. (Photo by Carlos Muza from Unsplash)

Why Should College Students Take a Marketing Course?

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Learn about the business world as well as how to better your communication skills and your understanding of advertising, all in just one class.…

May 15, 2021

An illustration of the three members of TFBoys for an article about their rising popularity and emotional impact. (Illustration by Julie Chow, University of California, Berkeley)

The Music of TFBoys Resonates With the Youth of China

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

This popular band skyrocketed to the top of the charts by providing its audience with genuine connections and passionate music.…

May 4, 2021

An illustration of the Chinese film Hi, Mom for an article about familial bonds. (Illustration by Julie Chow, University of California, Berkeley)

‘Hi, Mom’ Uses Time Travel To Display the Bond of Mothers and Daughters

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

This 2021 hit became the second-highest-grossing Chinese film ever by presenting familial love and sacrifice in an unprecedented way.…

April 29, 2021

A photo of some of the contestants on "Where Are We Going, Dad?" for an article about Asian toxic masculinity. (Image via Google Images)

‘Where Are We Going, Dad?’ Reveals the Expectations for East Asian Family Men

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Toxic masculinity and the importance of filial piety in Chinese families are put on display in this popular reality TV series.…

April 22, 2021

A photo of a scene from I Am the Actor for an article about's how the show impacts audiences. (Image via Google Images)

‘I Am the Actor’ Series Unveils the Secrets of the Performance World

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

The Chinese TV competition show gives viewers the chance to witness the ins and outs of the acting process. …

April 15, 2021

An illustration of a van for an article about the film Nomadland and nomadic living. (Illustration by Julie Chow, University of California, Berkeley)

‘Nomadland’ Challenges Important Social Norms and the Meaning of Life

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Chloé Zhao’s awarding winning film makes viewers question what’s truly valuable to them.…

April 5, 2021

A photo of the Clubhouse for an article about why the exclusive app is so successful. (Photo by Erin Kwon from Unsplash)

Clubhouse Succeeds by Fostering a Sense of Community

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

One year after its release, this famous app is still growing, partially because its exclusivity and audio-only format facilitate a close-knit group experience.…

March 30, 2021

A photo of a singer from Produce Camp 2019 for an article about the show's emphasis on collectivism and audience power. (Image via Google Images)

‘Produce Camp 2019’ Reflects the Communal Values of Another Culture

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

This Chinese reality show displays both a strong sense of community and the importance of grit and a growth mindset.…

March 23, 2021

Image of a newspaper for an article about the benefits of startup accelerators. (Photo by AbsolutVision from Unsplash)

Startup Accelerators Can Be the Catalyst for Your Entrepreneurial Dreams

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

If you’re looking for a bit of advice on entering the business world, try considering the mentorship, training, funding and peer network advantages of this great pathway.…

March 15, 2021

Photo of a girl procrastinating for an article about Coursera and Psychology of Learning. (Photo by Tony Tran from Unsplash)

‘Psychology of Learning’ Offers Winning Strategies for Studying and Acquiring Knowledge

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Struggling with procrastination and feeling overworked? This free class through Coursera will make researching much easier so you can excel in college.…

March 9, 2021

A photo of Taylor Swift playing the piano in the Miss Americana documentary. (Image via Google Images)

What Does ‘Miss Americana’ Tell Us About Passion and Life?

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

The 2020 Taylor Swift documentary expertly highlights the impact that stardom has had on the singer, while also showing the value of the little moments.…

March 4, 2021

Image of walkers from "The Walking Dead" in an article about the psychology behind horror movies and TV shows. (Image via Google Images)

Why Do We Enjoy Watching Horror Movies and TV Series?

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Films and television shows intended to frighten their audience oftentimes make viewers feel calm and peaceful instead. How is this done?…

February 24, 2021

Image of Jolin Tsai in her music video for Ugly Beauty

‘Ugly Beauty’ Portrays a Dramatic Journey of Self-Exploration and Self-Awakening

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Jolin Tsai’s hit 2018 song and music video explore her personal struggles as an artist by diving into a study of one’s identity.…

February 17, 2021

An illustration of Asian pop singer Jolin Tsai for an article about the song Ego-Holic and self-worth. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

‘Ego-Holic’ Is a Song That Allows You To Realize Your Intrinsic Value

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Jolin Tsai’s feature in this Taiwanese pop hit encourages listeners to break conventions and appreciate one’s individuality.…

February 9, 2021

An illustration of the two main characters of Your Name Engraved Herein in an embrace

‘Your Name Engraved Herein’ Explores the Nuances of Love and Self-Acceptance

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

While the Taiwanese blockbuster focuses on themes that particularly pertain to the LGBTQ+ community, its messages are universal.…

January 31, 2021

Illustration of cheerleaders in an article about the Cheer documentary on Netflix. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

Even Beyond Cheerleading, ‘Cheer’ Tells a Story of Value and Purpose

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

This inspiring Netflix documentary highlights Navarro Community College coach Monica Aldama and her dedication to giving her students the drive and opportunity to succeed.…

January 21, 2021

Image of main characters in "The Princess Switch" in an article about gender roles. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

‘The Princess Switch’ Reflects on Gender Roles and Relationships

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

These royal romances are more than meets the eye when it comes to lessons in commitment and love.…

January 17, 2021

Psychology course in college. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

Why You Should Take Psychology Courses in College

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Even if it's not your field of study, taking one of these classes will help you gain a better understanding of yourself and the world around you.…

January 7, 2021

Coursera. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

Coursera Is an Academic Recharge Station for College Students

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Online studying options will never replace in-person education, but they are still useful for learning and reviewing.…

December 21, 2020

‘Teenager Therapy’ Is an Emotional Ride Full of Joys and Tears

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

This relatable podcast is the perfect listen for young adults searching for a bit of peer guidance and support.…

December 15, 2020

Image of the sharks on the show Shark Tank. (Image via Google Images)

‘Shark Tank’ Will Teach You How To Become an Entrepreneur

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Watch ABC's hit reality business show to learn more about the world of venture capital.…

December 9, 2020

Glee. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

Ahead of Its Time, ‘Glee’ Portrays What the Future Should Look Like

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

The musical comedy is much more than just a show to watch for laughs; it introduces young viewers to the possibility of a positive and inclusive future.…

November 22, 2020

LinkedIn. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

LinkedIn Will Connect You With the Professional World

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

The popular app is much more than just a job site — it's a place to meet both old friends and new acquaintances in a professional space.…

November 16, 2020

Smule. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

Smule Is an App That Will Feed Your Mind and Soul

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

The singing app is a great way to stay connected with friends and will keep your spirits high during these stressful times.…

November 9, 2020

The Politician. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

‘The Politician’ Uses High School Politics to Reflect on Real World Issues

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Payton Hobart is an ambitious student with White House aspirations, but he faces challenges that all viewers can relate to.…

November 3, 2020

Selling Sunset. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

What Is ‘Selling Sunset’ Really Selling?

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

This Netflix reality TV show focuses on the lives of West Coast real estate agents, but the social issues buried within it are anything but glamorous.…

October 29, 2020

Online courses. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

Online Courses: We Can Make the Most of It!

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Taking your school courses digitally can be difficult, but here are a few tips to help you stay on track.…

October 22, 2020

Social isolation and relationships. (Illustration by Eri Iguchi, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

How To Manage a Relationship With Your Romantic Partner in Quarantine

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Being in social isolation with your significant other during college can be difficult, but here are a few things to think about that may help.…

October 14, 2020

Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Writer Profile

Xiaobin (Benjamin) Chen

Columbia University
Economics and Psychology

Economics Courses Aren’t Just for Economics Majors

Why Should College Students Take a Marketing Course?

The Music of TFBoys Resonates With the Youth of China

‘Hi, Mom’ Uses Time Travel To Display the Bond of Mothers and Daughters

‘Where Are We Going, Dad?’ Reveals the Expectations for East Asian Family Men

‘I Am the Actor’ Series Unveils the Secrets of the Performance World

‘Nomadland’ Challenges Important Social Norms and the Meaning of Life

‘Produce Camp 2019’ Reflects the Communal Values of Another Culture

Startup Accelerators Can Be the Catalyst for Your Entrepreneurial Dreams

‘Psychology of Learning’ Offers Winning Strategies for Studying and Acquiring Knowledge

What Does ‘Miss Americana’ Tell Us About Passion and Life?

Why Do We Enjoy Watching Horror Movies and TV Series?

‘Ugly Beauty’ Portrays a Dramatic Journey of Self-Exploration and Self-Awakening

‘Ego-Holic’ Is a Song That Allows You To Realize Your Intrinsic Value

‘Your Name Engraved Herein’ Explores the Nuances of Love and Self-Acceptance

Even Beyond Cheerleading, ‘Cheer’ Tells a Story of Value and Purpose

‘The Princess Switch’ Reflects on Gender Roles and Relationships

Why You Should Take Psychology Courses in College

Coursera Is an Academic Recharge Station for College Students

‘Shark Tank’ Will Teach You How To Become an Entrepreneur

Ahead of Its Time, ‘Glee’ Portrays What the Future Should Look Like

Smule Is an App That Will Feed Your Mind and Soul

‘The Politician’ Uses High School Politics to Reflect on Real World Issues

Online Courses: We Can Make the Most of It!

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Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

Writer Profile

Columbia University Economics and Psychology

Columbia University
Economics and Psychology