The crowd settles in. The scene is set. Someone stands at the podium. Words flow out of their mouth, drawing the crowd in, making them feel, telling them stories, helping them understand the struggles the speaker may be going through.

This is what it was like in SDA’s Open Mic held in the Learning Commons on Thursday, March 31st. Before the readings, an excited senior, Mona Karimi, draws people in, encouraging them to share, letting them know that this is a safe, encouraging space. New music by a SDA student plays in the background. Everyone starts socializing, meeting new people before the event begins.

The show starts and everyone is captivated. People shared music, horror, poetry, social commentary, suspense; a continuous stream of differing stories causing a batch of emotions and thoughts. People applauded; they cheered; they encouraged; they snapped; they supported.

In between the sharing there was a short intermission which provided various teas and snacks to help encourage less awkward socialization. A very important thing for the socially awkward writer.

This event ended with people talking and socializing, commending and commenting on the pieces that were shared.