NEWSFrom Euphoria to Essay: Exploring Teen Issues Through Pop Culture
July 30 2025, Published 1:57 a.m. ET
In today’s media-driven society, teens are no longer just passive consumers of pop culture—they are part of the conversation. Shows like Euphoria, music from artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Billie Eilish, and social media trends on TikTok have become mirrors reflecting the real issues teens face. Whether it’s mental health, identity struggles, relationships, or academic stress, pop culture is shaping how students see themselves and the world around them.
But here's where it gets interesting: more and more students are using these themes as sources and inspiration for school essays. Turning pop culture into academic material isn’t about fangirling over Zendaya or quoting a Drake lyric—it’s about diving into the deeper meanings behind these cultural moments. It’s about understanding how entertainment reflects the lived experiences of a generation.
And if you're wondering, 'Can I actually write a paper on this?'—absolutely. Many students are already turning to the trusted Myassignmenthelp.com for help in writing strong, plagiarism-free essays that explore such topics in a thoughtful, academic way.
Why Pop Culture Belongs in the Classroom
Traditionally, academic writing focused on classic literature, historical figures, or political theories. But Gen Z is redefining what’s relevant. TV shows like Euphoria don’t just entertain; they tackle hard-hitting issues like drug abuse, depression, peer pressure, identity, and trauma.
When Rue, played by Zendaya, spirals through addiction and recovery, it offers students a raw portrayal of mental illness that psychology textbooks might not fully capture. For students writing personal narratives or analytical essays, referencing such portrayals can provide context, emotion, and relatability.
Moreover, shows like Never Have I Ever introduce intersectional themes of race, grief, and cultural identity. Students writing college admissions essays or argumentative papers about diversity often use these storylines to express their own journeys or challenge stereotypes.
Music, Memes, and Mental Health
Beyond TV, music lyrics have become a form of youth expression. Olivia Rodrigo’s “Vampire” and Billie Eilish’s “Everything I Wanted” aren't just chart-toppers—they’re emotional essays in disguise. These songs resonate with students experiencing heartbreak, anxiety, and pressure to succeed.
For essay writers, analyzing lyrics is similar to analyzing poetry. It helps explore symbolism, tone, and theme. Teachers are beginning to embrace this shift, encouraging students to bring cultural references into literary discussions.
Even memes and social media trends are starting points for meaningful discourse. For instance, TikTok trends that highlight “burnout” or “romanticizing your life” show a collective desire among teens to reclaim joy and mental peace in an overwhelming world. Essays that tie these trends to sociological or psychological theories allow students to stay culturally aware while honing academic thinking.
Want OK! each day? Sign up here!
The Right Way to Write Pop Culture-Inspired Essays
While pop culture is a great launchpad, the execution still needs to follow academic standards. This means using reliable sources, forming a clear thesis, and avoiding clichés. Here’s how to do it right:
- Choose a Clear Topic: Focus on one issue. For example, “How Euphoria Portrays Teen Addiction” is stronger than “Why I Like Euphoria.”
- Use Pop Culture as a Case Study: Your essay shouldn’t only be about a show or artist. Instead, use them to support a broader theme—like mental health in youth, LGBTQ+ identity, or pressure from social media.
- Cite Sources: Academic essays should include studies, quotes, and data alongside cultural references.
- Keep It Original: Avoid just summarizing plots or lyrics. Your voice and analysis should shine through.
This is where platforms like Myassignmenthelp.com come in handy. Their academic experts help students brainstorm, outline, and polish their ideas while ensuring plagiarism free essays that meet institutional guidelines.
Real Examples: How Students Are Doing It
Let’s look at a few real-world examples of how students are blending pop culture and academia:
- Psychology Essay: A high school senior wrote an essay comparing Rue’s behavior in Euphoria to the symptoms of bipolar disorder and addiction patterns described in the DSM-5.
- College Admissions Essay: A student described how watching Stranger Things helped them cope with loneliness during the pandemic and inspired them to study neuroscience.
- Sociology Paper: A student explored cancel culture using the backlash against celebrities like Doja Cat, analyzing it through the lens of collective behavior theory.
These aren’t gimmicks—they’re intelligent, heartfelt essays that stand out because they connect with what’s real and current.
Teacher-Approved? More Than You’d Think
Some students worry their teachers won’t take pop culture seriously—but that’s changing. Many educators now encourage students to write about topics that reflect their personal experiences and interests. As long as the structure, argument, and sources are sound, using Zendaya or Olivia Rodrigo in your paper won’t cost you points—it might even earn you praise.
Essay prompts are evolving, too. Assignments like “Write about a cultural phenomenon that shaped your perspective” or “Analyze a media source and its impact on society” practically invite students to bring in modern references.
Conclusion
Pop culture isn’t just entertainment—it’s education in disguise. It allows teens to explore themselves and the world through music, shows, and online content. When students channel that into writing, their essays become more than just assignments—they become reflections of identity, emotion, and thought.
