Angelina Cuenca's Blog Reflection #2
Looking Back, Thinking Forward: A Reflection on Our SPC Class Presentations🌊
Over the past few weeks, our
class presentations have revealed just how powerful collaboration,
communication, and shared purpose can be. Participating in and observing the
different groups helped me realize just how interconnected our chosen topics
were. Even though each group had a distinct theme, they all painted a bigger
picture of our generation’s concerns and hopes for the future. Our
presentations were not only informative, but also deeply personal and relevant
to the real-world challenges we’re all beginning to face.
Reflecting on my own group’s
presentation and those of my peers, I’ve come to appreciate the
creativity and dedication that went into each project. More than simple
classroom assignments, these projects were explorations of topics that impact
our everyday lives, such as our mental health, our families and education systems, our
careers, and our connections with each other.
Our Group’s Message: Mental Health and Social Life🧠
The group I participated in,
which included Omar, Melody, William, Vinka, Sebastian, Ketsia, Steven, and
myself, focused on the relationship between mental health and social life. One
of the things I appreciated most about our group was the respectful and
thoughtful way we approached the topic. Mental health is personal and often
sensitive, but we worked together to present it with care and intention. It was
clear that everyone wanted to raise awareness and reduce stigma, whether or not
they had direct experiences with mental health challenges. We focused on facts,
resources, and real-life examples to help our audience connect with the
message. We explored how digital platforms, while a convenient form of
communication, can sometimes fuel social comparison, anxiety, and isolation. It
was important to us to not just talk about the negatives, but also to
acknowledge how these platforms can be tools for building community and support
when used mindfully. We looked at the pros and cons of being constantly
connected and discussed how boundaries and digital wellness practices can help
us reclaim our peace of mind.
One of the most powerful topics in our presentation was
the conversation around stigma. Many people still feel uncomfortable talking
about mental health, especially in certain cultural or family environments. We
wanted to challenge that silence and offer encouragement to speak up, reach out,
and prioritize self-care. It felt meaningful to share resources and practical
tips regarding time management, seeking therapy, and being intentional about
the people we surround ourselves with. I felt that this opportunity to inform
others benefited me as well, helping me become more aware of
mental health resources and introduced habits and strategies I could apply in
my own life.
What stood out to me most during this process was how much the topic encouraged personal reflection. As we worked on the presentation, I found myself thinking more deeply about what mental wellness looks like in everyday life, both for myself and for those around me. The experience reminded me of how important it is to create space for open, honest conversations, not just in the classroom, but in daily life as well.
Group 1: Careers, the Economy, and Our Future⏳
The first group tackled the
intersection of career development and the economy. Their presentation did a great
job of breaking down such an abstract topic down to feel accessible. They explained
complex trends like automation, AI, and the rise of gig work in a way that
connected directly to our lives as students preparing to enter the workforce.
One thing I really appreciated about their presentation
was how they emphasized adaptability. The world is changing fast, and careers
that existed 10 years ago may look completely different 10 years from now. However,
instead of making that feel overwhelming, their message felt empowering. They
encouraged us to be lifelong learners, to develop a wide range of skills, and
to stay curious about emerging industries like green tech and digital
entrepreneurship.
They also addressed the realities of economic inequality
and how different students might experience opportunities differently depending
on background, access to education, and support systems. That added a layer of
nuance and inclusivity that made their message stronger.
Group 2: Families, Education, and Systems of Support📘
The second group delivered a
presentation that focused on how families and education are deeply connected.
They touched on a wide range of issues, from parental involvement in schools to
the challenges single parents and working families face when trying to support
their children's education.
I admired their attention to
inclusivity. They discussed how school systems can unintentionally exclude
certain types of families, whether due to language barriers, work schedules, or
a lack of cultural sensitivity. The group also did an amazing job of bringing
in solutions, like flexible parent-teacher communication options, multilingual
support, and programs that bridge gaps between schools and underserved
communities.
Their use of local Miami-Dade
programs added authenticity and made the presentation both relatable and
useful, especially as MDC students who may benefit from those same resources. I
especially appreciated their discussion around student-parents and whether they
should be allowed to bring children to class. That’s a topic we rarely hear
about, but it’s so important. It showed a level of empathy and awareness that
made their message even more impactful.
The way they presented their material, using both data and stories, served to remind us that behind every statistic is a real person. Their presentation didn’t just point out problems; it called for compassion, innovation, and real community support.
What I Learned: The Power of Connection🫂
Across all three presentations,
I kept coming back to the same theme: connection. Whether we were talking about
careers, mental health, or education, every group emphasized the importance of
staying connected, both to ourselves and to each other.
For example, in the workforce, effective communication
can set us apart. In families, it builds trust. In mental health, it can
literally save lives. Each group approached communication from a different
angle, but they all made it clear that how we speak, listen, and engage with
others matters more than ever.
I also saw how empathy and vulnerability can aid a
presentation. People shared real stories, real concerns, and real hopes, and that
honesty helped us connect with the audience on a human level. When we present
on such topics, we aren’t just talking about issues, we are living
them.
And perhaps most importantly, I was reminded that we’re
stronger when we work together. Each group had its own strengths, some had
powerful storytelling, while others had impressive research or visuals, but all
of them succeeded because they were collaborative. I saw classmates support
each other, adapt when things didn’t go as planned, and grow in confidence
throughout the process.
Looking Ahead: Applying These Lessons🔍
These presentations weren’t just
a way to wrap up the semester, they were a learning experience in themselves. I
left with a better understanding of my peers, of the world we’re stepping into,
and of the kind of communicator I want to be. I’ve learned that good
communication isn’t just about speaking clearly: it’s about listening deeply,
thinking critically, and being willing to grow. I want to carry that with me,
whether I’m presenting in a classroom, applying for a job, or just having a
conversation with someone who needs support.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside so many thoughtful and dedicated classmates. Together, we turned important conversations into meaningful action, and that’s something I’ll take with me long after this class ends.
Excellent reflection. I too took so much from these presentations.
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