Andre Gutierrez

Uncertainty. Something that college seniors always face was heightened with Covid-19 and a divisive election. Would I graduate into a recession? Would my loved ones die from a preventable surge? Would our democracy be further weakened? Would I pass with online classes? These questions were overwhelming for Sam in “Overflow” before his December 2020 graduation.

Infused with humor, “Poolside Depression” was inspired by the pressure people endure to do well, to get into a “good” college that can make or break your career and ultimately the pressure to survive in today's world. Pressure can surmount everything in our lives and often blind us to what's truly important. Too often people lose sight of themselves due to pressure. Through this story, my goal is to bring to light the absurd, but often dark reality some pressure can bring. Things like college admission tests, which for some doesn't mean much, but for others is life or death.