All posts by Mirrorajah Metcalfe, Correspondent

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How NECC students feel about artist Lil Nas X’s new and most controversial project release, “Montero”

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On March 29, 2021, famous musician Lil Nas X released a scandalous new song entitled “Montero”, accompanied by a graphic music video and limited-edition pair of “Satan Shoes” created by MSCHF.

Due to the song’s satanic premise and demonic imagery of which has triggered much uproar within the religious community, the project has recently been a popular source of controversy throughout the media and entertainment industry.

After speaking with various NECC students about the matter, some are in full support of the musician’s creative expression, while others are not.

The song “Montero” itself includes many biblical references of which may be considered blasphemous, while the music video depicts Lil Nas X participating in sodomy with the devil. Other settings include his seduction by a serpent in the Garden of Eden and sliding down a stripper pole from heaven to hell. At the end of the video, Lil Nas X murders Satan by breaking his neck and placing Satan’s devil horns on his own head, thus becoming Satan himself. Concerning Lil Nas X’s “Satan Shoes”, only 666 pairs were exclusively created and sold for 1,018$ each—selling out within a minute of its initial release.

The custom design for the Nike Air Max 97’s is red and black, featuring a gold pentagram atop the lace front, the bible verse “Luke 10:18” at the heel, and a single drop of human blood contained inside the sole of the shoe, visible in a clear bubble on the outside.

Isa Grullon, 34, a journalism and communications major from Lawrence, stated that her opinion regarding Lil Nas X’s music is indifferent despite finding the song “Montero” to be catchy.

As she prefers listening to 90s music, “The song is not my preference, but I could see someone else being into it and that would not bother me,” said Grullon.

Regarding his music video, “They did a good job of using imagery to evoke feelings. The use of pastels to portray heaven and the stripper pole for hell was very symbolic and well done. It was also cool how he played every character, showing off his diversity,” said Grullon.

She further explained how, in her opinion, the video was meant to showcase Lil Nas X’s personal journey of being a black, gay man and public figure in modern society. She stated that his portrayal of becoming Satan in the end symbolizes his victory of self-acceptance as an underdog.

Concerning his expensive footwear, Grullon stated that she would rather spend the $1,018 on food.

“I don’t understand the shoes. To me, that’s an over-the-top publicity stunt to get a rise out of people. Plus, where did they get the human blood from? Was it donated?” said Grullon. She further explained how that, in her opinion, there is a fine line between creating art for self-expression and attempting to trigger a reaction from the public.

“It is not our place to tell others how to express themselves—as long as they’re not hurting anyone. No one is forced to see other people’s creations. For me, the sneakers are a bit much, but to each his own,” said Grullon

Serai Bogran, 19, a film major from Haverhill, explained how that as a Christian, she has become more aware of the satanic imagery and subliminal messages of which artists and celebrities may advocate and/or incorporate into their work.

She further stated that over the last few years, the discreetness of Satanism has lessened and is now more openly advertised and promoted throughout entertainment media than ever before. As the religious community totals a large portion of the public’s backlash and hate regarding “Montero”, Bogran stated that it saddens her to witness those who claim to be of the church harassing Lil Nas X for being gay.

“As a Christian, it is not our job to judge others, make them feel bad about themselves, or tell them that they’re going to hell. God doesn’t want us to hate on anyone. Being gay is not going to send you to hell,” said Bogran. She further explained how religious people who discriminate against the gay community are actually tainting God’s image. However, as a Christian, she does still find it unfortunate that Satanism is the way in which Lil Nas X chooses to express himself.

“I do not agree with what he has been posting lately and personally find the drop of blood situation to be very weird and creepy,” said Bogran. “The backlash, however, is not helping things at all, and is in fact only proving his point. If anything, we should be praying for him, loving him, and showing him support. We should be telling him in a respectful manner that what he is doing is not okay.”

Nisaly Gonzalez, 22, a liberal arts major from Haverhill, stated that although she does not listen to Lil Nas X often, she does still appreciate his creativity as an artist. “I thought that the video was pretty interesting, and the setting was cool. The song symbolizes him trying to make a statement about being free in your own skin,” said Gonzalez. Despite her personally liking the design of his “Satan Shoes”, Gonzalez stated that she will not be wearing them.

When asked about her opinions on Lil Nas X’s received media backlash regarding the “Montero” project, Gonzalez stated, “I don’t disagree with it because he is living his life the way that he wants to. I feel that artists should have the freedom to do whatever makes them happy.”

While many find the considered vulgar and satanic themes within the “Montero” project to be inappropriate and offensive, others view Lil Nas X’s creations as a work of art and freedom of expression.

Grullon, Bogran, and Gonzalez all concur that the way in which both the religious community and general public has responded to the artist and his project could have been handled and improved in more positive and uplifting ways.

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Students reflect on the influence of advertising in the entertainment industry

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Advertising is a billion-dollar industry marketed globally to millions and is often the reason why people want the newest, trendiest, or most expensive luxuries and experiences in life.

Popular products extending from fashion and technology, to food and culture, are displayed everywhere throughout television and social media for the sole purpose of selling a product.

Many believe that the influence of advertisement on a population even plays a large role—consciously and subconsciously—in molding our personal principles, perceptions, and opinions.

After speaking with several NECC students, most have expressed both positive and negative positions concerning the influence of advertisement in the entertainment industry.

“To me, an advertisement is an announcement or notice via any media to promote a product or event.” Said Isa Grullon, 34, a journalism and communications major from Lawrence who is also the editor-in-chief of the Observer.

“I definitely think that advertisement helps to shape our consciousness in everyday life. It is a very strategic pursuit and there is a whole psychology behind it. They [advertisers] don’t tell you what to think, but they can tell you what to think about,” said Grullon.

She further explained how, in her opinion, certain advertisements may also lead to cultural appropriation — in which trends are stolen, distorted, and Americanized from the form in which they were originally derived (i.e., Boxed-braids, Chinese food, slang). When asked about the impact of advertisement regarding social media platforms, Grullon stated, “I’m personally fine with social media apps marketing to me because I’m not going to fall for it. But there are people out there that are more naïve — especially young teenagers or older people — who have no idea how social media can target or place them in a certain category. I feel that in general, social media is not the greatest for society.”

Grullon’s evolved understanding of advertisement, she says, has enabled her to feel less inclined to buy or need the products advertised to her through the entertainment industry. Despite this understanding, however, she also confessed that the advertisement of Snickers candy bars does occasionally take advantage of her perception. “I can’t lie, sometimes when I see a Snickers commercial, I’m like I want a Snickers bar now. And that’s how they play with your mind.” Said Grullon.

According to Serai Bogran, 19, a film major from Haverhill, “advertisements are often used in a negative way and can cause more harm than good.”

Bogran further expressed how she personally doesn’t feel the need to buy what she sees on television, despite knowing that many others struggle with this compulsion.

As various social media platforms (i.e. Instagram, Snapchat, Tik Tok, Twitter) incorporate ads throughout their app’s feed, Bogran stated “I’ve definitely noticed a lot more ads on Tik Tok and Instagram recently that are based on what I like. Even when I talk about a product sometimes, I’ll see it advertised on social media. It’s really, really, weird.”

Conversely, Bogran also stated that “Advertisements can be used in a positive way, such as supporting local businesses.”

Jeremy Isabelle, 20, a journalism and communications major stated “TV usually scares me away from a product because of those cheesy, early 2000s commercials that I always used to see as a child.”

Isabelle also began to explain how, in his opinion, advertisements set up unrealistic standards for ordinary people to aspire to, such as flawless beauty and/or an abundance of wealth.

“I think it [advertisement] can negatively affect people’s mental health if they’re constantly trying to look like the next perfect boy or girl from a Hollister commercial,” said Isabelle.

A negative aspect about advertisement concerning social media, in his opinion, is the way in which companies collect personal data and market information.

“The way that your phone will listen to your conversations and then advertise a product based on what you were talking about—I completely disagree with. It eliminates the self-discovery aspect and is a complete invasion of privacy,” said Isabelle. Conversely, he also thinks that a positive aspect about advertisement is how it can be used to enlighten the masses on current environmental issues.

Although advertisement in the entertainment industry plays a crucial role in positively cultivating the culture of society, the manner in which products are advertised are not always considered ethical or correct.

Bogran, Grullon, and Isabelle all agree that the deceptive intentions of advertisers may also limit the people’s rights to personal privacy and freedom of mind. “

I’m not sure if it is ethical or not to have advertisement in entertainment and social media. I feel like they have always gone hand in hand. It just depends on how you use it, and how you target your audience, while also doing it in a way that is appropriate,” said Grullon.

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NECC alumn, Gyani Wasp, discusses creative inspirations and pursuit of a career in filmmaking

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A photo of Gyani Wasp

Gyani Pradhan Wong Ah Sui (a.k.a. Gyani Wasp), 18, is an international student and NECC film major alumni who is currently majoring in screen studies at Clark University in Worcester, Mass. Originating from Mauritius, a country in East Africa where his father grew up, Wasp moved to Sikkim, India, where his mother is from when he was 9 years old.

By the eighth grade, Wasp had developed an affinity for reading and writing  — especially after devouring the entire “Percy Jackson” book series by Rick Riordan. This creative spark soon translated into an interest in storytelling, as he began to write his own stories and watch various genres of film. At age 15, Wasp moved to the United States as an exchange student after the principal from his high school in Sikkim suggested that he study abroad. “

He [the principal] was like a mentor to me—an encouraging and charismatic leader who motivated many students. A lot of my ambition comes from what he believed was possible for me,” said Wasp. “My new high school had a big focus on creativity and encouraged me to think outside the box. It made me begin to look at film as art because it blends so many different art forms together, and that really excited me.”

Soon enough, Wasp realized that he wanted to actually see the visions of the stories he had written come to life. “I begged my parents to get me a camera for Christmas and started working on small goofy projects with friends. Then throughout high school, I started making travel videos and vlogs with my family,” said Wasp.

When the COVID-19 pandemic initially began in 2020, Wasp decided to spend his free time watching at least one film a day for the duration of lockdown to learn more about the history of filmography. By using the app called Letterbox, Wasp participated in writing numerous critical reviews and journals to keep track of his movie recommendations and watching progress.

Photos by Gyani Wasp

Wasp is particularly drawn to international films, as he stated that only listening to American voices can feel limiting, as different cultures have alternative perspectives on film and the art of storytelling. Some of his favorite international directors include Alfonzo Cuaron, Edward Yang, and Gaspar Noe. “I watched a lot of Wes Anderson and Christopher Nolan movies, followed many major production houses, such as A26, and also watched many YouTube film essays from “The Criterion Collection”, which discusses a variety of films more in-depth,” said Wasp. His favorite actors include Ryan Gosling, Scarlett Johansson, and Ethan Hawke. Wasp also stated that despite Stanley Kubrick’s controversial personality, he would most like to work with him as a director because he appreciates his talent.

“I want to change the landscape of what people talk about, and I want my stories to be personal and authentic. The idea of ‘home’ is a super relevant theme to me, personally, because I’ve moved around all throughout my life,” said Wasp.

Wasp plans to stay in the United States and pursue a career in filmmaking. He is hoping to find a job or an internship at a film production company after graduation.

“I would love to work at Sundance, and I’m hoping to direct movies someday. That’s the plan,” said Wasp.

Wasp has also created a YouTube channel under the name of “Gyani Wasp” in which his films and videos are displayed and can be viewed by the public.

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Students find ways to be entertained and creatively inspired in 2021

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As we emerge from the year of 2020 — a year of which could be generally described as a global catastrophe and a stressful period for most — the remaining effects have still left many people feeling unhappy in their daily lives, as well as isolated from friends and family due to Covid-19.

The isolation is also having an especially large impact on college students — specifically regarding their current lack of social and live educational experience(s). While the chilling February weather and gloomy skies may also trigger a depressing mood, having a creative outlet and/or source(s) of entertainment may help to alleviate some of this negative energy.

Many NECC students have found various ways to be motivated, creatively inspired, and entertained in 2021.

“I think that covid has helped me to isolate away from people and only think about myself, and the things that I want to do in my life,” said Jeremy Isabelle, 20, a journalism and communications major from Haverhill.

Isabelle began to further express his love for writing and movie-watching as his form of a creative outlet and entertainment. “It feels as though I have a giant canyon to just scream into whenever I get overwhelmed by my daily life. Like if schoolwork is really dragging me down, I start to write down what’s going on with me. Then it starts to feel like I’ve thrown a giant weight off my shoulders,” he said.

Furthermore, he also explained his love for Stanley Kubrick and Christopher Nolan movies, as well as how he draws much of his personal inspiration from the entertainment media. “Stanley Kubrick, Hunter S. Thompson, George Orwell, and Arthur C. Clarke—each of these creatives have their own kind of genre that represents its own portion of my life,” said Isabelle.

Isa Grullon, 34, is a journalism and communications major from Lawrence, as well as the editor-in-chief of the NECC Observer. When asked about her creative outlets, Grullon stated that although she loves to write “2020 made it hard to write about anything aside from covid. I even had a file that I kept called the ‘Corona Chronicles’.”

Grullon further explained, “Because I haven’t been doing all the activities that I would normally do, like going to concerts and restaurants, I’ve been watching a lot of new shows and movies on Netflix.”

Grullon also loves to watch popular Youtubers, such as Bailey Sarian, a lady who tells thriller stories about crime and mystery while doing her makeup. When asked about her motivation and inspirations, Grullon stated, “My daughter and my sense of responsibility to the world are what inspires me to stay motivated — it’s a feeling that comes from within. I don’t really have to search outwards.”

“I love to paint and listen to music. It helps me think about what I am feeling. I also like to think of ways that will make my room feel cozier since I’m in it all the time now,” said Victoria Martinez, 19, a Health major from Haverhill.

She began to further explain that by managing her college courses, it has also helped to keep her mind active and structured during these times. When asked about what she does to stay motivated throughout her life and personal obligations, she stated, “I have a hair, skin, and self-care routine that I do every day to help myself stay positive. I always try to have a positive mindset and make sure that I’m good, even when things go bad.”

Martinez further expressed how she feels that focusing on oneself is the most important and effective way stay productive and inspired. “My mother is what also motivates me, one hundred percent.” says Martinez. “I need to at least be happy and successful for her.”

Writing, watching films, listening to music, and practicing self-care are all valuable creative outlets and sources of entertainment that have helped NECC students. Despite these blue times, students are hopeful for a positive change, and looking forward to a brighter future in 2021.

 

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How NECC students plan to spend the holidays this winter break

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As Christmas, New Years, and winter break swiftly approach, one semester  at NECC is coming to an end. Because the coronavirus pandemic caused significant disarray for most throughout the last several months, many are feeling excited and relieved about this upcoming conclusion.

After speaking with numerous NECC students regarding their holiday plans and traditions, they mainly revolve around a joyous occasion spent with family, friends, presents, and resolutions.

Shanely Jimenez, 18, a student taking ASL courses, stated that she and her family love spending the holidays together and traditionally gather every year for a Christmas and New Year’s Eve party.

“We wait until twelve to hug and kiss everyone. It usually ends with all of us girls in tears,” she said.

Jimenez’s favorite Christmas movie is “Elf” and she says that if she could be any Christmas character, she would choose Santa Claus because she wants to make sure that her loved ones are taken care of. Jimenez’s New Year’s resolutions are “To move out of my parent’s house and find self-love.”

Victoria Martinez, 19, a health major from Haverhill, stated “I’m actually looking forward to winter break and am excited for a fresh start.”

As semester one has helped her to improve her time management skills and work ethic, Martinez says that she will be spending winter break preparing for next semester.

For Christmas, her family tradition is to participate in “Secret Santa,”  an activity in which everyone is anonymously assigned a person to give a gift to and the recipient has to guess whom they received the present from.

Martinez also stated that she loves eggnog, her favorite Christmas movie is “Home Alone”, and that she prefers real Christmas trees over fake ones.

“For some people, Christmas is about Christ and religion, for others it’s about trees, gifts, and Santa; Christmas is just another day for me,”  says Isa Grullon, 34, a journalism and communications major from Lawrence, who is also editor-in-chief of the NECC Observer.

Generally, Grullon does not celebrate Christmas or New Years, and typically spends the holidays at work.

Grullon is, however, excited for winter break and states “I’ll have one less thing to worry about.”

Her advice to those preparing for semester two of online college is to “Keep an open mind and don’t overwhelm yourself with the workload. It’s okay to take things slow because each class is one step toward your goal.”

Grullon stated that if she could be any Christmas character, she would choose the Grinch because she can relate the character’s point of view.

She also wants “a personal blender, a reporter’s notebook, a can opener, and a 2021 Lexus RX 350 F Sport in Mica Red with Cookies n’ Cream colored seats and a red bow on top” for Christmas.

As cheerful and elated as the holiday season may be, it can also be a very challenging and stressful time for some.

Jimenez, Martinez, and Grullon all encourage NECC students to stay positive, relax and enjoy their much-deserved vacation, take life responsibilities one step at a time, and gradually prepare for next semester.

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Students reflect on first semester of online courses

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Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, students have been required to experience college life through virtual events and online curriculum.

Participating in online courses instead of in-person classes has greatly influenced the academic involvement of many — both positively and negatively.

After speaking with several NECC students, most have shared and expressed their personal feelings regarding how they’ve managed to cope with online learning and the lack of social interaction among peers and professors throughout this past semester.

“I’m so behind in a lot of my classes, but I’m just going to have to power through it,” says Isa Grullon, 34, a journalism and communications major from Lawrence, who is also the editor-in-chief of the NECC Observer.

“I miss being in a classroom with people to interact with in real time and have well-rounded discussions, as opposed to via Blackboard,” Grullon explains.

When asked if online learning is easier or more difficult for her to manage, Grullon said that she has felt more discouraged to participate because of her frustration at the “disconnected social medium.”

“I like listening to other people’s questions in case they think of something I didn’t.” she continues, “The experience is different in a Blackboard setting because it takes days for people to respond.”

Grullon also described her struggle with procrastination, as she feels it is, “A gift and a curse. I work better under pressure, but I realized I only cause myself more grief. By rushing through the process, I’m only robbing myself of the true experiences that I should be having.”

Regarding her overall impression of taking online courses, Grullon states, “It’s not for me.”

On the contrary, Finn Sparrow, 19, a journalism and communications major from Haverhill, expressed that he loves online learning more than in-person because, “I can work at my own pace and I don’t have to listen to a teacher talk for such a long time. I’ve primarily taken online classes and have been pretty successful.”

Sparrow has taken online courses at NECC since his junior year of high school and has managed to maintain a 3.5 GPA throughout the entirety of that duration.

“I’ve been able to balance work, school, and time for myself. I get everything in on time. I think the only thing that I would change is for me to be able to meet new people,” he stated.

Sparrow’s three recommendations for an improved online college experience are, “Keep up with your work, check your email, and don’t get lazy.”

Victoria Martinez, 19, a health major from Haverhill, explained how she feels overwhelmed with what’s going on in the present world. As she recently graduated from high school in May, experiencing college online has been a major transition.

Martinez finds that it is more challenging for her to remain motivated and focused because using the computer is her only source of communication.

“I don’t go on the computer every day. I would have a better chance at success by attending my classes in-person. The environment gives me motivation,” she says.

Martinez does, however, appreciate that by using Blackboard, she has access to all course work material, is visually reminded of assignments due dates, and can repeat lecture videos according to her own pace.

As the upcoming conclusion of semester-one swiftly approaches, Martinez expressed, “I’m excited for a fresh start now that I know what to expect in the future.”

The stressful habit of procrastination, wavering control of self-discipline, and the lack of social interaction and communication have been the focal struggles of which many NECC students are currently facing throughout their first semester of college online.

Nevertheless, despite adversity and an unfamiliar atmosphere for most, NECC students have successfully managed to learn and progress in a positive light — potentially looking forward to a brighter future as they now are now equipped with the knowledge and experience of this new virtual reality.

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How NECC students are feeling about the 2020 election results

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Millions nationwide have anxiously awaited and anticipated the final deliberations of the 2020 presidential election between current President Donald Trump and Former Vice President Joe Biden. As the last ballots were finally counted, Biden and his Vice President elect Kamala Harris were officially announced the new leaders of America for the upcoming term of 2021. After speaking with many NECC students about the concluding results and aftermath of the election, most remain hopeful for the future of this country.

Victoria Martinez, 19, a health major from Haverhill, explained how despite her not being a very political person, she did have hope for Biden and Harris to win the election — surprised that they actually did. She continued to explain that as she still does not expect for much change to occur during this upcoming term, she is hopeful that things will change eventually — especially concerning the recent, on-going social and political justice issues in America.

When asked about her feelings regarding Harris becoming the first African American woman Vice President, she explained that “Having a woman of color in office could bring much peace for Women’s Rights and racial equality.” She stated, “I think she’s [Harris] a really good influence for women—especially of women mixed-race. If Biden doesn’t do anything for America, Kamala will.”

Jeremy Isabelle, 20, a journalism and communications major from Haverhill, stated “This was the first election I was eligible to vote in. I thought it was my civic duty to try to inspire the change in the country that I wished to see.”

When asked about his wishes for the future of America, he explained that he’d like to see “A revaluation of the immigration system in this country and a thoughtful reconstruction of the Supreme Court — so that it doesn’t always dominate one political party’s agenda.”

Isabelle also desires a socialized healthcare system, because “It has been proven to work in other countries that are not entirely socialist states.”

When asked about which social/political problem he would change or fix in America if he could choose any, Isabelle explained, “I would probably change the healthcare or education system. I feel like both healthcare and education prices are at exorbitant rates. Both strike home for me because I have celiac disease and also wish to raise a child in a system that doesn’t view education as a commodity.”

Isa Grullon, 34, a journalism and communications major from Lawrence, said that although she believed Biden would win, she was “flabbergasted at how many people voted for Trump.”

When asked whom she would personally choose, living or dead, to be the next president of the United States, she decided on Trevor Noah — a famous South African comedian and political commentator. She explained, “I enjoy his sense of humor and view on life. His perspective is very thoughtful, and his zodiac sign is a cancer.”

The Presidential Election of 2020 was, and still is, a highly controversial topic and source of much debate and discontent for most. However, as the new year quickly approaches, many NECC students seem pleased with the results of this year’s election and the elected future leaders of our country.

Martinez, Isabelle, and Grullon all remain encouraged and optimistic for a major change that will positively impact the future of American citizens — potentially beginning with Biden and Harris.

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Time management: How creatives are coping with COVID-19

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Since Covid-19, young artists have dealt with managing their time evenly and balancing out their work life while staying inspired and driven to continue working on their personal craft.

Young artists have struggled to maintain focus and find inspiration as they deal with the repercussions of the pandemic. Virtual courses have also interfered with their ability to create content.

Students at NECC have shared their artistic processes and the effects that COVID-19 has had on them.

Art & Design major Susan Elias shares that since the pandemic she has had little to no time to work on her personal craft outside of immediate course assignments. Virtual courses have also hindered Elias from dedicating time to her hobby.

She states, “When it comes to schoolwork, I do mostly design work because that’s what I work on. As for, personally driven work, I really haven’t had the time for that at all.”

In terms of balance, Elias has found a way to incorporate her personal artistic endeavors within her lifestyle. She says, “I’ve had like a couple freelance jobs outside of school. It’s client work, but still creative.

Despite the inability to dedicate time into her artistry, she has not lost motivation or inspiration.

“If I can’t fit it into my schedule, I’ll avoid it until I have more time. Any free time that I currently have is to relax or catch up with work,” she says.

However, Elias finds some positivity amongst the difficulties stating, “I think I’ve been kind of benefiting from being home, I think I like it better,” she says.

NECC student Mirrorajah Metcalfe is a Journalism major. In her free time, she likes to create personal videos.

“Eventually I want to make a movie/short film. Corona definitely affected it. I have less people to work with,” she says.

For Metcalfe finding the time and motivation is a lot more difficult because of the change in environment.

“I think it’s a lot easier to stick with your craft if your environment is full of things to have to do with your craft. It has both its positives and negatives as well. It’s positive because I’ve had more time to be alone and focus on things, but negative because I have less people to reach out to. I rely heavily on people and my interactions with them. Since I have no people around me, I have less stimulation, thus less inspiration,” she said.

 

 

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How students plan to spend Halloween during COVID-19

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As Halloween begins this upcoming holiday season, many celebratory plans have been negatively affected (or even canceled) due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Dressing-up in costumes for communal “Trick-or-Treating” and attending chilling “Haunted Houses” are only a couple among the countless cancelled festivities of this beloved Holiday, causing a sense of despair among many —especially within the NECC community. Despite hardship, students have found several safe, alternative ways in which to spend and appreciate their Halloween of 2020.

Jeremy Isabelle, a journalism and communications major whose favorite candy is Almond Joy, typically loves visiting the bloodcurdling haunted houses at Canobie Lake Park — enjoying the thrill of being chased by loud chainsaws.

Isabelle reminisced on a childhood memory of the gothic, Victorian-style house near the street of his home, of which was always particularly frightening during fall season.

This year, Isabelle will be pumpkin carving in attempt to keep alive the holiday spirit. When asked if he feels that COVID-19 will cause a long-term effect on the celebration of Halloween, Isabelle stated, “I feel bad for my sister, she’s only a sophomore in high school — and for future generations.” Isabelle believes that social distancing will “encourage future people to be more conscious of personal space.”

Bryan Fernandez, a journalism and communications major whose favorite candy is gummy worms, proclaimed his love for Halloween while disclosing his annual ritual of watching his three favorite scary movies: “Monster’s House”, “Cabin in the Woods”, and “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

Fernandez normally spends his Halloween dressing-up in costumes and partying with friends. This year, he will instead be galivanting social-distanced style — a “Netflix Party” over group facetime.

Fernandez and his friends plan to simultaneously watch scary movies on Netflix while using technology to collectively practice social distancing. As multiple households interacting with each other could potentially increase the risk of virus spread, Fernandez says that he doesn’t think “trick-or-treating” will come back for a long time. “It sucks for the children—It gives kids their first taste of independence. Halloween is an important part of childhood,” said Fernandez.

Although many traditional Halloween activities are at high-risk for coronavirus spread, there are still various others that can be enjoyable alternatives.

Alternative activities such as pumpkin carving, scary-movie marathons, virtual Halloween costume contests, and/or having a family “Haunted-House-Candy-Scavenger Hunt”, are all ways in which to celebrate safely. Both Isabelle and Fernandez have remained positive in discovering new ways to enjoy the holiday. How will you spend this spooky season?

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Creative outlets help NECC students during COVID-19

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Since March of 2020, the spread of COVID-19 has forced NECC students into the isolation of their homes.

Despite these difficult times, many students have found the use of creative outlets to be extremely beneficial for their creativity and mental health. Creative outlets are unique to everyone and can be any interest or hobby that releases anxiety and stress—a break from everyday life.

Isa Grullon, 33, is a journalism and communications major from Lawrence who loves writing poetry, singing alone in her car, and choreographing popular cultural dances for her friends’ quinceañeras. She is also a Features Editor for the NECC Observer. Writing allows Grullon to release all negative thoughts and express her true self. She explained that without writing, her negative thoughts would fester inside, leading her to become an angry person. Having a creative outlet brings her happiness, as she states, “if you’re happy, you get to share that with other people,”

Gyani Wasp, 18, is an international student and film major from West Newbury who enjoys filmmaking, movie-watching, photography, and writing film reviews for critical thinking. He explained how the isolation has affected his movie-watching experience by restricting him to appreciate films alone instead of at a theater with his friends. Wasp has been making films for four years, and when asked about his love for creating, he responded “I want to make people feel the way I feel [while watching movies].”

Lastly, Erik Terrio, 24, is a journalism and communications major from Haverhill who strongly believes in dedicating at least one hour of the day to himself.

“We [everyone] totally forget about ourselves. You need something fun to look forward to in order to be productive,” he said.

Terrio enjoys movies, video games, drawing, painting, and writing in his journal. He describes writing for him as a form of meditation and makes a daily “Gratitude List” of everything he his thankful for despite adversity. Terrio also implores students to spend time with their families.

NECC students’ use of creative outlets have contributed a positive effect on their lives, creativity, and mental health during COVID-19. Isa, Gyani, and Erik all encourage other students to find their own creative outlets, interest, or hobbies, as they feel it will be a beneficial resource for those battling with mental health and struggles of everyday life.