“The Summer I Turned Pretty: A Journey from High School to College”

The popular series The Summer I Turned Pretty has captured the hearts of young viewers, reflecting their experiences and emotions as they transition through adolescence. Amelia Taylor, a sophomore studying Writing Seminars and Voice Performance, shares her personal connection to the show as she navigates her own journey from high school to college.

From Simple Beginnings to Emotional Rollercoaster

When Taylor first clicked on The Summer I Turned Pretty during the early days of her junior year in high school, it was merely out of curiosity. Adjusting to the rigorous demands of school after spending time in the serene Berkshire Mountains was challenging. Seeking comfort, she decided to watch a few minutes of the series each morning to ease her transition back to early morning classes. Little did she know that this choice would lead to an emotional investment over the next four years.

The series tells the story of Belly, a young girl who spends her summers at the beach with her family and friends. Throughout her childhood, Belly has harbored feelings for Conrad, the older brother of her childhood friend, Jeremiah. As the story unfolds, Belly turns sixteen and finds herself caught in a love triangle between the two brothers, all while dealing with the real-life struggles of family and loss. The narrative resonates deeply, especially after the passing of Conrad and Jeremiah’s mother due to cancer, highlighting the challenges of adolescence.

A Reflection of Reality

The summer of 2022 marked a pivotal time, as many young people were finally emerging from the constraints of COVID-19 restrictions. Taylor observes that this period was crucial for teenagers who had missed out on vital social interactions. Belly’s awkwardness and relatable experiences mirrored the lives of many viewers, who found solace in her journey while navigating their own challenges.

As season two premiered just before Taylor’s senior year, she found herself resonating with Belly’s struggles. The emotional turmoil of having to choose between the stable Jeremiah and the complicated Conrad echoed her own feelings about preparing for college applications and the uncertainties of the future. Each Wednesday evening became a ritual, allowing her to escape into Belly’s world and distract herself from her own anxieties.

While Taylor experienced her own growth during this time, the show offered a familiar sense of connection. With her high school days behind her, she approached the third season with a mix of nostalgia and anticipation. The characters, now expected to show growth, provided a reminder of her own transition into adulthood. Despite her lack of immediate closure regarding her high school experience, the return to the show offered a sense of comfort.

As Taylor moved to Baltimore for college, the show continued to be a focal point in her life. Watching the series became a communal event with friends, allowing for shared reactions and discussions about the characters’ choices. The excitement surrounding the final episode brought together viewers who had followed Belly’s journey from the beginning, culminating in a bittersweet conclusion.

On the night of the series finale, Taylor’s room was filled with friends, reflecting the growing audience for The Summer I Turned Pretty. They shared laughter and opinions, demonstrating the impact the show has had on their lives. As they ordered snacks and celebrated the finale, Taylor and her friends acknowledged the end of an era, both for the show and in their own lives.

Looking ahead, Taylor acknowledges the impending release of a TSITP movie, even as she prepares for her academic responsibilities and personal growth. She emphasizes that while the series provided a window into the experiences of a 16-year-old girl in 2022, it also served as a reminder of the shared moments that defined her own teenage years. The connections formed through the show illustrate a collective experience that resonates beyond individual stories.

In conclusion, The Summer I Turned Pretty is more than just a television show; it reflects the challenges and triumphs of youth. As Taylor navigates her own transition into adulthood, the series remains a cherished part of her journey, capturing the essence of a time that shaped the lives of many. Whether through laughter or tears, the show has left an indelible mark on its audience, reminding them of the importance of connection during pivotal moments of their lives.