Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago, Author at Study Breaks

In an article about the ric, white gaze that U.S. Vogue implores, a mannequin with pale skin and red lips stands with one arm behind their head and one arm across their belly. An off-screen figure's hand holds cash while another off-screen figure's hand holds a red credit card.

The Rich, White Gaze: Why Vogue Covers are so Boring

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

The lack of risk in Vogue's creative direction is notable and based in white mediocrity. …

October 2, 2023

In an article about Latinx History Month, two hands carry a sun while rays and flowers surround.

“Latinx” Reclamation of Hispanic Heritage Month

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

Changing the celebration’s name to “Latinx” isn’t an exclusion. It’s a reclamation.…

September 25, 2023

The “Hot Girlfriend, Ugly Boyfriend” Phenomenon

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

While many accuse women of yearning for male validation, it is usually other men who seek it the most. …

September 22, 2023

In an article about 'Blue Beetle,' superhero Jaime Reyes strikes a defiant and protective stance in front of his family home.

‘Blue Beetle’: The Start of Unrestrained Representation?

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

Many critics have accused the film’s accurate portrayal of Mexican American culture as an attempt to “fit an agenda.”…

September 8, 2023

In an article about stan culture, a stan livestreams an artist's performance at a concert and receives thousands of views on social media.

A Deep Dive Into Stan Culture

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

Despite its unflattering origins, the term “stan” has become a badge of honor to many fans who have dedicated their lives to promoting and defending their artists — by any means necessary. …

August 31, 2023

In an article about Latino representation, the main character of the upcoming show 'Primos' cries "oye?" as the sun sets over the Hollywood sign and a neighborhood called "Terremoto Heights" in the background.

Disney’s ‘Primos’: Representation Only Matters When Done Right

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

The upcoming Disney Channel animated show has prompted many Latinos to question what it really means to be represented.…

August 28, 2023

In an article about Mexican American culture and identity, an outstretched hand of invitation covers the emblem of the Mexican flag.

Yahritza y Su Esencia: Mexican American Identity Is Complex

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

Carrying two identities is a lovely, aching thing. Make sure to honor both. …

August 25, 2023

In an article about being a creative writing major, a miniaturized writer stares up at colossal gavels, test tubes and stethoscopes that loom over her.

Being a Creative Writing Major in a Family of Non-Creatives

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

There is no shame in pursuing your own dreams.…

August 25, 2023

In an article about the female characters in 'Naruto,' Hinata Hyuga emerges from a dense forest and stares directly at the viewer with pale eyes.

Wasted Potential: How ‘Naruto’ Failed Its Female Characters

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

All of the women on the show are underutilized, underdeveloped and unrelatable. They could have been so much more. …

August 18, 2023

In an article about fan fiction, two writers holding books and sheets of paper excitedly discuss and compare the stories they wrote about their favorite fictional characters.

Fan Fiction Is Representative of the Human Spirit

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

It's time to recognize that this popular medium is a legitimate form of art.…

August 14, 2023

In an article about Penelope Featherington, Penelope, framed against an open archway and wearing a yellow dress, stares boldly into the distance as purple flowers encircle her.

In Defense of Penelope Featherington

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

The small screen needs more female characters as cunning and complex as the 'Bridgerton' series' pivotal wallflower.…

August 8, 2023

In an article about the collapse of the DCEU, Superman stares dejectedly at the ground as speech bubbles with criticisms such as "DCU crumbles!" and "ongoing controversy" flock around him.

The Downfall of the DCEU

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

The DC Extended Universe is officially dead. It's time for a postmortem.…

August 3, 2023

In an article about the 'Latin Lover' stereotype, a trio of Latino actors glance warily over their shoulders at anonymous fans shouting sexual innuendos at them.

Miguel O’Hara Is Caught in the Web of the ‘Latin Lover’ Stereotype

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

Latino characters and actors are becoming more prominent in Hollywood. It is imperative that audiences preserve their dignity.…

July 20, 2023

An illustration of the Justice League for an article about the recently released Snyder Cut. (Illustration by Sonja Vasiljeva, San Jose State University)

Was the 2021 DCEU ‘Snyder Cut’ Worth the Wait?

Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago

A spoiler-free analysis of the recent release of an extended version of the 2017 film ‘Justice League.’…

March 29, 2021

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Kimberly Vazquez, Columbia College Chicago