Mo Kim

As part of the Bay Area Writing Project, I get to put together workshops and trainings for students and educators across the Bay Area. This last week, I got to put on a special summer workshop for 17 rising seniors at SEO Scholars: together, we delved into the art of cultural criticism. Over four unforgettable days, we debated the responsibility of arts critics, weighed the merits of good (and bad) art, explored the art of personal narrative, wrote about 2026’s hottest pop hits, and even snuck in some field visits to cafes from San Leandro to Antioch.

More importantly, we collaborated on a digital magazine where each student revised and published at least one piece they were proud of. Given their collective brilliance, courage, and vulnerability, it’s fitting that they decided on the theme of speaking from the heart: I can’t think of any better way to sum up what you’ll find in these next 52 pages, as our students talk about everything from Tapioca Express to Bad Bunny.

I couldn’t be prouder of these students – putting together a magazine in the space of one week is no easy feat. I am grateful to them, to my incredible TA Mimi, and to my former colleagues at SEO for helping make the magic happen. We hope you enjoy!