In 2009, Miley Cyrus gifted the world “Party in the U.S.A.” As a five-year-old, this anthem was my introduction to the vibrant world of popular hit songs. Growing up, the tune was a constant backdrop, from car rides with my older sister to middle school dances where it served as a nostalgic throwback. Little did I know, these early encounters with the popular music of the late 2000s and early 2010s would foreshadow my own coming-of-age moments set to similar catchy beats.
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Fast forward to this summer, stepping off a plane at LAX, dream in tow but cardigan left behind in the 85-degree heat, there was only one song that could soundtrack the moment. Blasting “Party in the U.S.A.” on repeat felt like a full-circle moment, a nod to that five-year-old version of myself who would undoubtedly be thrilled. It’s funny how certain popular hit songs become ingrained in our personal timelines, marking moments and transitions.
This summer adventure is all about gaining hands-on experience interning with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) in Los Angeles. For someone aspiring to a career in child advocacy law, CASA, a national non-profit championing systems-impacted youth, is an ideal fit. My days are filled with diverse aspects of non-profit operations, from social media and marketing to event planning, grant writing, and community outreach.
The CASA team has been incredibly supportive, offering invaluable career advice, adventurous rock climbing outings, and introductions to LA’s diverse culinary scene. Their energy and spirit remind me of another iconic song celebrating California vibes, Katy Perry’s “California Gurls” from her sensational 2010 album, “Teenage Dream.” This album was a defining soundscape of 2010, filled with popular hit songs that dominated the airwaves.
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California girls,
We’re undeniable,
Fine, fresh, fierce,
We got it on lock,
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West coast represent,
Now put your hands up
Ooh oh ooh!
This track, a quintessential summer anthem and a popular hit song of 2010, has found its way onto my summer playlist. Embracing the “fine, fresh, fierce” attitude feels fitting for this LA chapter, even for an East Coast Washingtonian who secretly acknowledges the unique charm of the West Coast. Indeed, West Coasters seem to have things “on lock,” much like the catchy hooks of the popular music that defined 2010.
Despite a year of college life away from home, this summer marks my first true experience of independent living. No more home-cooked breakfasts courtesy of mom or RoMa’s Howard. Navigating adulthood solo has come with its learning curves. One major lesson: dinner requires planning, hunger anticipation is key. Frozen dinners have become a more frequent occurrence than I’d like to admit. During these moments of “hangry” frustration, Sia’s empowering anthem “Unstoppable” becomes my go-to soundtrack. While not strictly a 2010 release, Sia’s music captures the resilient spirit found in many popular hit songs from that era, emphasizing strength and independence.
I’m unstoppable,
I’m a Porsche with no brakes.
I’m invincible,
Yeah, I win every single game.
I’m so powerful,
I don’t need batteries to play.
Digging through my compact mint-colored fridge, attempting to conjure a Howard-esque omelet from thin air, Sia’s lyrics become a personal mantra. Who needs perfectly timed meals when you’re “unstoppable”? (Just kidding – balanced eating is crucial, and cooking is a skill I’m actively developing when time allows). It’s all part of the journey of adulting, a theme often explored in popular hit songs about growing up and finding your way, many of which resonated in 2010.
However, my California summer isn’t solely about work and meal prep. Exploring Los Angeles has been a significant part of the experience. From Universal Studios and the Santa Monica Pier’s Ferris wheel to a 37-mile bike ride across LA and binge-watching “Gilmore Girls,” I’ve embraced the city’s offerings. Rooftop movie nights, a quintessential LA experience, have also been a highlight. This brings to mind another incredibly popular hit song from around 2010, Pharrell Williams’ infectious “Happy.” Although released later, it embodies the optimistic and feel-good vibes prevalent in the popular music scene that started taking shape around 2010.
Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof
(Because I’m happy)
Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth
(Because I’m happy)
Pharrell’s lyrics perfectly encapsulate my summer. Exploring a new city solo has been transformative, fostering personal growth and shifting perspectives. Networking with Princeton alumni, immersing myself in the city of fame and fortune, and discovering unforeseen aspirations have all contributed to a deeply enriching experience.
As my departure from LAX approaches, I know that the young girl who once danced to these popular hit songs of the early 2010s will cherish the memories of this summer as a “California Gurl.” This experience has solidified a sense of being truly “Unstoppable” and undeniably “Happy!” – feelings perfectly amplified by the soundtrack of popular hit songs that have accompanied me from childhood to this transformative summer.
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