Downtown Pittsburg has been packed to the brim with community events that both appeal to local students and adults alike. An example that happened quite recently was the “How The Grinch Stole the Barber Battle” event held on Sunday, December 14, 2025. A barber battle that featured both licensed and student barbers with opportunities to showcase their skills to licensed barbers all across the Bay Area with numerous prospects and licensed individuals from Sacramento to Oakland. The event was apart of the Bay Area Student Barber Expo movement, a movement designed to draw interest from incarcerated and aspiring barbers across the Bay Area.

These gatherings reflect a broader push to bring inclusive events in both the Bay and downtown Pittsburg, where people who aspire to learn and become beauticians can learn from these events. This “How The Grinch Stole the Barber Battle”, was the third annual one, and it will continue for as long as Pittsburg stays alive. 

Community and recreational centers like the Marina Community Center, and parks such as City Park, also host open gyms for young aspiring tweens and teens to practice and hone their basketball and volleyball skills to make their team or to train for a club. These natural hubs for students become social hangouts and allow others to bond and connect and naturally become hubs for students in the area. Pittsburg’s Marina Center and downtown area is an area that continues to offer a variety of experiences that fit the interests of its diverse community.

Walk through the halls of Pittsburg High School before the first bell rings, and you’ll see students with earbuds in and playlists ready to go. Music has become a daily routine for many students, helping them wake up in the morning, stay focused during study time, or relax after a long day of classes. From mainstream artists that even your grandma will know, to more low-key artists, the music students listen to reflects both current trends and personal identity.

Transitioning from the morning soundtrack to class playlists, hip-hop and rap remain some of the most popular genres among Pittsburg High School students. Artists like Drake, Travis Scott, Kendrick Lamar, and Lil Baby frequently appear on students’ playlists. Many students say they enjoy the strong beats and relatable lyrics, especially when they need motivation before a test or practice. Kendrick Lamar’s storytelling and Drake’s mix of rap and melody appeal to students who enjoy both meaningful lyrics and catchy sounds.

Alongside the popularity of hip-hop and rap, pop music is also a major favorite throughout the school. Artists such as Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Olivia Rodrigo, and Billie Eilish are commonly discussed among friend groups. Taylor Swift’s storytelling lyrics and Olivia Rodrigo’s emotional songs resonate with students navigating friendships and relationships. These songs often become shared experiences, with students bonding over new album releases or favorite tracks.

For students who prefer a calmer vibe, indie and alternative music plays a big role. Artists like Lana Del Rey, Arctic Monkeys, Clairo, and The Neighbourhood are popular choices for studying or relaxing. Lo-fi beats and softer alternative tracks are especially common during homework sessions, helping students concentrate without distractions.

Cultural influence also shapes music preferences at Pittsburg High School. Many students enjoy Latin artists such as Bad Bunny, Peso Pluma, and Karol G, whose music brings energy and cultural pride. These artists are often played at social gatherings or shared among friends, introducing others to different styles and languages. Meanwhile, students involved in band or choir may listen to artists like Hans Zimmer, Ludovico Einaudi, or classical composers to improve their musical skills and find inspiration.

The music students listen to at Pittsburg High School is a reflection of diversity, creativity, and connection. From Drake and Taylor Swift to Bad Bunny and indie favorites, each artist adds something unique to the school’s soundscape. Music helps students express emotions, manage stress, and connect with one another. No matter the genre or artist, music remains an essential part of student life at Pittsburg High School, creating a shared rhythm that plays throughout the day.

Tymmothy Maya

As graduation gets closer, many seniors are thinking more seriously about what they want to do after high school. For some students, this time feels exciting and full of possibilities, while for others it can feel stressful and overwhelming. Big changes are coming, and everyone handles them differently. I interviewed two of my senior pals, Diego Cervantes and Ian Ashford, to learn about their plans after graduation and how they feel about moving on from high school.

Diego plans to go to college after high school. He said he feels excited about starting this new chapter but also a little nervous about the changes ahead. Diego shared that he is looking forward to meeting new people and focusing on his future goals. He knows college will be more challenging than high school, but he feels ready to take on the responsibility and work toward his dreams.

Ian Ashford plans to work after high school and take time to figure out his long term goals. He said he feels calm about his decision and does not feel pressured to have everything figured out right away. Ian shared that he wants to gain real life experience and learn more about himself before making big decisions. While he will miss his friends and teachers, he feels confident about taking this path and becoming more independent.

Both Diego and Ian have different plans for life after high school, but they share many of the same feelings about graduating. They are excited for what comes next, but they also feel nervous about leaving a place they have been at for years. Their stories show that there is no single right path after high school, and everyone moves forward at their own pace.

Jose Munoz

Grade 12