Many might consider California to be a state that houses the stress of thousands, and also the perfect concoction for economic and emotional failure. Although California's environment of high demand might verify people's negative aspects about the state, the truth is that there are areas of California that offer an escape from the troubles that emerge within one's realm. As a matter of fact, California does not possess only one utopia, but many that are dispersed throughout the golden state. Compared to those who hold a job and support a family, a student does not really experience the difficult predicaments that lead to a loss of motivation or drive. It does not mean though, that a young adult is exempted from the pressures that arise in everyday life. When I was in high school, I had many situations in relation to academics colliding, creating a stress that was at times unbearable. Fortunately, during that moment in time, a plan to visit Six Flags was considered and finally agreed upon. When the trip to Six Flags was over, and the time to have fun arrived, my expectations were not met. What had actually happened was that my expectations were immensely surpassed. Instead of pondering on my problems, I had left those troubles at home and focused my attention on the attractions. Rushes of dopamine overcrowded my synapses, creating a euphoric effect that I wished was eternal. The roller coasters contributed to my addiction for fast movement, screaming, thrills, and repeated exposures to rides. Life was extremely cherishable, and all the problems became small specs of dust that could be thrown under the carpet and forgotten about infinitely. As it was once put by Carey McWilliams “California was an island on the land”(16)
Works Cited
McWilliams, Carey.
"Carey McWilliam's California: The Light and the Dark." Reading
California -Art,Image

I really like the idea that California is not “only one utopia” since many California destinations are considered as a “getaway” from stress. I can relate to the stress created not only by school and other factors of life. The fact that you didn’t let your problems ruin your fun day at Six Flags connects to California as an “escape from troubles”. I really enjoyed the description for the thrill and excitement during the rollercoaster ride.
Posted by: Pacita | September 27, 2008 at 10:02 PM
It is so refreshing to read something that is positive about california. To me it is so much easier to write about the downside of California. this actually made me stop and think about how useful the attractions here in California really are when one needs a break from the stress of life. i have an earge to drive to six flags right now!
Posted by: Christina Lee | September 28, 2008 at 05:38 PM
Compared to those who hold a job and support a family, a student does not really experience the difficult predicaments that lead to a loss of motivation or drive.
I disagree with this point because a "Student" can be anyone: a child, an adult. There are so many variables. I am an almost full time student who works 30 hours, has a husband and a dog and supports and lives on my own. If you are going to make that statement you have to be more specific of the exact "Student" you are talking about who doesn't have to deal with life's perdicaments. However, I enjoyed the line in your blog where you said-
"Rushes of dopamine overcrowded my synapses, creating a euphoric effect that I wished was eternal."
I thought this line was creatively discriptive, appropriate and powerful. That is good writting. And last but not least, I think Carry McWilliam's quote about California could have come a little sooner in the blog.I didn't really hear a conclusion.
Posted by: Jessica Campos | September 28, 2008 at 07:57 PM
"Life was extremely cherishable, and all the problems became small specs of dust that could be thrown under the carpet and forgotten about infinitely." The descriptive language which you use for this blog paints a detailed picture in my mind. This makes for more interesting reading and brings this piece to life. I love the in depth descriptions, along with your terminology.
Posted by: tyler hay | September 28, 2008 at 10:18 PM