Challenging the pervasive "deficit perspective" in education, which unfairly blames students from marginalized backgrounds for their struggles. Drawing on personal experience and research by scholars like Richard Valencia and Aida Hurtado, advocating for a shift toward culturally responsive teaching that sees students’ backgrounds as strengths, not shortcomings. Calling for systemic change that nurtures, rather than condemns, the potential of every learner. Navid Amarlou is a dedicated UROC Scholar at CSUMB with a passion for advancing knowledge in social psychology. His research explores critical topics such as creativity, morality, and education through the lens of deficit thinking, seeking to uncover how these frameworks impact marginalized groups. With a strong commitment to fostering equity and inclusion, Navid’s ultimate goal is to pursue a PhD and become a professor and researcher who uplifts underrepresented communities through impactful, socially conscious scholarship.In his role as an Educational Research Specialist at Outside the Box Education, Navid combines his analytical expertise and dedication to meaningful change, contributing to innovative educational practices that inspire growth and learning. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

From childhood dreams to crossing oceans, my journey as an international student was shaped by waves of ambition and resilience. Join me as I share how navigating challenges and pursuing a degree in computer science at CSUMB transformed my aspirations into reality. I am a passionate technologist who found an in Computer Science. My love for newly emerging softwares is deeply intertwined with my appreciation for traditional music and connecting with people. As someone who never gives up on their passions, I pour my heart into everything I do - whether it's coding, solving problems, or building relationships. Communication has always been my strength, and I believe this makes me unique in the tech world. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Music is something we all value in our daily lives. Its function as a learning aid, a form of physical therapy for neurodivergent children, and a way to bring people together is as powerful as it is mystifying I am a Business Administration student who has always had an intense interest in music and law. I am passionate about exploring how music, law, and nature shape our lives, and I value introspection and self-development. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

The fight between confidence and complacency. And the struggle to find your place in the world First year student studying to be a Social Worker at CSU Monterey Bay. Identifies as queer and wants to help queer kids navigate the world and themselves. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

What do boba, banh mi, and the beach have in common? For a first-generation Guatemalan and Black woman, they became powerful symbols of self-care. In this talk, she shares how small, intentional acts can help us meet our deepest human needs for joy, nourishment, and connection. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, I’ve transformed my passion for building community into a meaningful career. I inspire students to connect, grow, and uncover their potential. With a rich cultural background and a degree in culinary arts, I love bringing people together especially through food. I thrive on motivating others, leading with purpose, and making every experience unforgettable. When I’m not planning, mentoring, or cheering others on, you’ll find me bowling, painting, or having heart-to-hearts with my plants. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

First-generation college students tend to be categorized and used as a marketing statistic. This talk dives into a journey of a first-generation college student, using stories from her personal life to portray the message that your past and upbringing will not determine where you will end up in the future. Lilyann is a first generation college student who believes that you can take charge of creating your own story. With a story of her own, she believes that the dreams of first generation students have stories that must be heard. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx