There are few opportunities for students to expose themselves to public speaking, creative expression, and an inclusive environment all at once, which makes an event like the Q Center’s Open Mic serve as an important platform for passion projects of all types to see an audience.

During last week’s open mic, students came with songs, poems, monologues, and presentations of friendship, revisiting themes of community, simple joy, and struggling against expectations. 

“The open mic was very heartwarming to listen to, and brought a smile to my face. I always enjoy going to events at Highline, especially ones like these,” said audience member Lilah Nutting. 

The Q Center, located behind Fireside Bistro in Building 8, was packed to the brim, with more students than seating. No doubt the snacks, sweets, and sodas provided attracted many who post up in the student union during the day. There’s nothing like free food to attract college students. 

The first half hour of the event was open to writing prompts and exercises, giving those who did not bring prepared material a chance to write a quick poem or short story if they opted to. Many participants RSVP’d to perform, with the floor opening up at the end for anyone with something to share. 

The mic opened up with a karaoke rendition, followed by Clubs consultant Francis. It’s interesting to see where inspiration comes from, and in Francis’ instance, inspiration can come from the simplest things, like the delicious turkey pesto sandwich from Aunt Irene’s in Des Moines. 

International students shined at the event, from karaoke in native Vietnamese to a presentation of friendships, or how international students feel connected through community despite being timezones away from their families. 

“I loved the community and family theme in the presentation about best friends,” remarked one of the revolving hosts of the event.  

The audience thinned and swelled as students exited following their performances, but the music and cheers attracted passerbys throughout the entire event. By the end, students were chatting with each other about favorite pieces and treating themselves with cupcakes. 

ASHC President Jasmine Nyabigo shared their own story and reminded all that the Arcturus is a great opportunity for these shared works to be published. Open to all skill levels, submissions to the Arcturus are accepted by a panel of editors enrolled in English 290 “Editing the Arcturus”. Submission deadline for this year’s edition are due Monday, Feb. 23.

Poems didn’t just express appreciation for scrumptious lunches, but explored connections with where one comes from, and what history might say. In other words, poets across campus are focused on the past, present, and future of our lives, from the smallest joys to the impending changes our nation faces. 

The most resounding theme, however, was friendship and joy; a duet in Vietnamese, a slideshow of best friends’ pictures, monologues on sexuality and discovering oneself. 

As young adults, public speaking is a necessary skill that strikes fear into the hearts of many. The Q Center does an excellent job of creating an inclusive and welcoming environment to exercise this skill. 

**Mavrie has been serving as editor for the ThunderWord since 2024. She is also the founding president of Highline’s Non-fiction Writers Circle.**