Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley, Author at Study Breaks

The Brilliance That Is Caroline Ricke, YouTuber Turned TikToker

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Originally known for her impersonation of the ultra-wealthy in college admissions scandals, the creator has brought her satire and witty humor to TikTok, rising even further in popularity.…

October 8, 2020

In an article about postal service, an illustration by Baz Pugmire

How the Postal Service Works Around the Globe

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

What can 55 cents get you? As it turns out, a trip across the country. A closer look into what the postal service looks like in developed countries around the world.…

September 30, 2020

‘9-1-1: Lone Star’ Is Relatable, Even If Its Plot Is Not

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Starring and co-produced by Rob Lowe, the firefighter drama series highlights underrepresented perspectives, but fails to deliver realistic plot lines.…

September 14, 2020

Earth Overshoot Day 2020 Shows Humanity’s Big Impact on the Planet

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Because of COVID-19 and quarantine, we depleted our environmental resources a little more slowly this year. That's still not enough though.…

September 3, 2020

Male Short Shorts Have Made a Comeback With the Five-Inch Inseam

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Many men are afraid showing more skin will cause their masculinity to take a hit, but short shorts are sending toxic masculinity out the window.…

August 31, 2020

The Closure of Several MUJI Stores Reflects Bigger Shift Toward Online Shopping

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

As the beloved brand prepares to close its California locations due to the pandemic, an uncertain future for the company’s U.S. operations presents itself.…

August 24, 2020

Advice for When Art Feels Like an Obligation and Not a Space for Inspiration

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Sometimes, motivation to make art doesn't come, and that's perfectly okay. Rather than forcing yourself into an old hobby, find new forms of inspiration.…

August 16, 2020

While Unconventional, Digital Journaling Is Not Completely Bogus

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

As is the case for many things, going digital can often make for a less personal experience. However, in this case, there are several benefits. …

August 10, 2020

Sweet Tomatoes’ Closure Hits Hard for Young Adults

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

The iconic buffet chain is another victim of the pandemic, but what will we remember about them, and what can we expect from similar restaurants in the future?…

July 31, 2020

The Non-Minimalist Lifestyle Can Still Spark Joy

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

While minimalism is all the rage, throwing out those 'unnecessary' items may be one of your biggest regrets in the long run.…

July 27, 2020

Do Online Petitions Make a Difference?

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Online mobilization might not have the same impact as making a donation or participating in protests, but it is still an important tool for political change.…

July 16, 2020

Hunger Games TikTok Reveals Gen Z’s Outlook on the World

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

What seems to be a comical trend on the popular video-sharing platform actually hints at a larger discontent with the status quo.…

July 11, 2020

The Late Christo and Jeanne-Claude Made Art Out of Impermanence

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Famous for wrapping the Reichstag among other things, the husband-wife duo embraced the ephemerality of their installations.…

July 4, 2020

YouTubers Damon and Jo Make Travel Feel Accessible

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Traveling often feels expensive and out of reach. However, these two show viewers that seeing the world doesn't have to be difficult.…

June 29, 2020

Securing the Bag: A Student Guide on Applying for Outside Scholarships

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Let's face it — college is expensive. While financial aid and student loans are often the only resources considered, there are other ways to ease the financial burden.…

June 19, 2020

University of California Is Eliminating the SAT/ACT: Will There Be Consequences?

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Getting rid of standardized testing could alleviate some problems with the college admissions process, but it will also have some unexpected ramifications.…

June 11, 2020

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Writer Profile

Brian Xi

University of California, Berkeley
Environmental Economics and Policy

The Brilliance That Is Caroline Ricke, YouTuber Turned TikToker

How the Postal Service Works Around the Globe

‘9-1-1: Lone Star’ Is Relatable, Even If Its Plot Is Not

Earth Overshoot Day 2020 Shows Humanity’s Big Impact on the Planet

Male Short Shorts Have Made a Comeback With the Five-Inch Inseam

The Closure of Several MUJI Stores Reflects Bigger Shift Toward Online Shopping

Advice for When Art Feels Like an Obligation and Not a Space for Inspiration

While Unconventional, Digital Journaling Is Not Completely Bogus

Sweet Tomatoes’ Closure Hits Hard for Young Adults

The Non-Minimalist Lifestyle Can Still Spark Joy

Do Online Petitions Make a Difference?

The Late Christo and Jeanne-Claude Made Art Out of Impermanence

YouTubers Damon and Jo Make Travel Feel Accessible

Securing the Bag: A Student Guide on Applying for Outside Scholarships

University of California Is Eliminating the SAT/ACT: Will There Be Consequences?

Suggestions

Suggestions

Brian Xi, University of California, Berkeley

Writer Profile

University of California, Berkeley Environmental Economics and Policy

University of California, Berkeley
Environmental Economics and Policy