In 2009, the airwaves were dominated by Miley Cyrus’s anthemic “Party in the U.S.A.” For a five-year-old like myself, it was more than just a song; it was a cultural touchstone. Growing up, this track was the soundtrack to countless backseat car rides with my older sister and even echoed through middle school dances as a nostalgic throwback. Little did I know, those early encounters with 2010 Pop Songs were setting the stage for my own “Hollywood” moment.
So, it was almost comical, and yet perfectly fitting, when “Party in the U.S.A.” started blasting through my headphones the moment my phone regained service after landing at LAX. Stepping off the plane, dream in tow, sans cardigan in the 85-degree heat, felt like stepping into the lyrics I’d sung so many times. Five-year-old me, bopping in the backseat, would have been ecstatic.
This summer marks a significant chapter: an internship with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) in Los Angeles. For someone aspiring to a career in child advocacy law, CASA, a national nonprofit supporting systems-impacted youth, is an ideal fit. My role is multifaceted, dipping into social media, marketing, event planning, grant writing, and community outreach—a comprehensive dive into nonprofit operations.
Every day with CASA has been enriching, and the team’s support has been incredible. Beyond career guidance, they’ve introduced me to LA’s vibrant culture, from rock climbing to the city’s diverse culinary scene. They embody the spirit of “California Gurls,” a quintessential 2010 pop song by Katy Perry from her iconic “Teenage Dream” album. This album, a defining sound of 2010, perfectly encapsulates the energy of that era’s pop music.
California girls,
We’re undeniable,
Fine, fresh, fierce,
We got it on lock,
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This track, “California Gurls,” has become a recurring theme in my summer playlist, a fun throwback to the vibrant pop landscape of 2010. I’m aiming to channel that “fine, fresh, fierce” energy and bring it back to the East Coast. Though, as a Washingtonian, I have to admit there’s a unique charm to the West Coast—they definitely seem to have things “on lock,” much like the catchy hooks of 2010 pop songs had us all hooked.
Despite a year of college life far from home, this LA summer is my first true experience of living independently. No more home-cooked breakfasts courtesy of my mom or RoMa’s Howard. Navigating adulthood solo has brought its share of learning curves, like realizing dinner requires an hour of foresight. Frozen dinners have become a more frequent guest at my table than I’d like to admit. In those moments of hunger-induced frustration, I turn to Sia’s “Unstoppable,” another powerful track that, while released later, carries the same empowering vibe reminiscent of 2010 pop anthems. Eating dinner at 8 p.m.? “Unstoppable,” I tell myself!
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.
These lyrics become my mantra as I rummage through my mini fridge, attempting to conjure a Howard-esque omelet. Who needs batteries, or even a timely dinner? (Just kidding – balanced eating is important, and when time allows, I genuinely enjoy cooking. It’s all a work in progress.)
But California hasn’t been all work and meal prepping. Exploring Los Angeles has been a major highlight. Universal Studios, the Santa Monica Pier Ferris wheel, a 37-mile bike ride across LA, and binging “Gilmore Girls” have filled my free time. Rooftop movie nights, a quintessential LA experience, have also been on the agenda. Which brings to mind another 2010 pop hit, though technically released in 2013 but with a timelessly feel-good vibe:
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 Williams’ “Happy,” while a bit later than 2010, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of that era’s upbeat pop music and my summer experience. Exploring a new city solo has been transformative, fostering growth and broadening my horizons. Networking with Princeton alumni, immersing myself in the city of fame and fortune, and discovering unexpected aspirations – this summer has been a journey of self-discovery, set against the backdrop of sunny skies and, in my mind, the catchy beats of 2010 pop songs.
As my departure from LA approaches, I know that the girl who grew up dancing to these songs, these 2010 pop classics, will deeply cherish this summer as her “California Gurl” moment. It’s been a summer where I’ve discovered I am indeed “Unstoppable” and, undeniably, “Happy.”
Alyssa Lloyd is a Features writer at the ‘Prince.’
Self essays at The Prospect give our writers and guest contributors the opportunity to share their perspectives. This essay reflects the views and lived experiences of the author. If you would like to submit a Self essay, contact us at [email protected].
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