Break time and binging

Students share what they watch when they need a break

With so much homework on their hands, students turn to movies, TV shows and online programs to give themselves entertainment and ways to ease their stress.

With exposure to technology and various online platforms, students have many opportunities to find something to watch.  Watching movies and shows may not be just because of technological access, but also because students need to shift their minds away from college work. Shows and programs can allow students to dive into another world for entertainment and in times of need.

Many students tend to watch TV shows when they want to put something on.  It can be a place they can come to for a break from work or to wind down for the day.

Students unwind with some of their favorite movies, televison shows and other forms of visual media to escape from the busyness of college. Photo by: Connor Grypma | Torch Alumnus

Economics and business administration junior Isa Setles is currently enjoying watching multiple shows.

“I have three main shows in my rotation right now,” Setles said. “I’m watching Bob’s Burgers, New Girl and Abbott Elementary.”

Setles talked about the importance of watching these shows amid her schoolwork.

“For me, it’s almost like an escape in a way,” Setles said. “I can just relax, and I don’t have to worry about my schoolwork. I can focus on the show and not have to worry about the workload that I have. These shows give me a break from everything else that’s going on.”

Not every student turns to a TV show when they need something to watch. Some students, whether or not they play sports, enjoy watching sports programs and tournaments.

Mechanical engineering technology freshman Xavier Stroud is currently watching March Madness. Having been exposed to sports at a young age, Stroud is happy to be watching March Madness for another year.

“I’ve always liked watching basketball growing up,” Stroud said. I started watching the Pistons when I was eight years old.  Basketball is one of those sports you can just turn on and just enjoy.”

Some students pick shows because of how funny they are, while others select shows for their intriguing ability to tell a good story.

The most recent show for Business sophomore Tyler Frederick was one he chose because he wanted to watch a good story unfold.

“The latest show I watched was Stranger Things,” Frederick said. “I enjoy watching shows that have a good storyline and shows that are interesting, and that’s what Stranger Things does. You never know what’s going to happen next and I enjoy watching it for that reason.”

Many shows, due to their common themes, messages and popularity, are watched by many students.

Social work freshman Dakota Rawe is also watching Bob’s Burgers.  Rawe talked about how she discovered the show and how that discovery has made it her go-to.

“I would see clips of Bob’s Burgers on TikTok,” Rawe said. “After seeing some clips, I found it quite funny, and then I started watching it. I thought if it was funny on TikTok, it’s probably funny enough to commit to and watch it, so I’ve been watching the show ever since.”

Regardless of what you watch, having something to watch for the laughs and entertainment, or to ease the stress, can be a great part of your college experience.  If you haven’t found a show yet, try venturing out and discovering some on the available streaming platforms. Even if you don’t watch a show, finding something via YouTube or other social media is always helpful.