[English Corner] “You shouldn’t wear that”—Still a thing in 2025? Exploring gender roles through language
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On June 6, 2025, the College of Management hosted its final English Corner of the academic year. Titled "Are Men and Women Still ‘Expected’ to Act a Certain Way in 2025?", the session welcomed instructor Haley, who guided a roomful of students through a thought-provoking discussion on gender expectations in modern society.
To break the ice, Haley introduced a gender-themed bingo game that encouraged students to talk to one another and find peers with different experiences—such as being told what they shouldn’t wear, or enjoying activities stereotypically associated with the opposite gender. This interactive activity successfully created an open and engaging atmosphere, paving the way for deeper conversations.
During the main session, students tackled questions about how societal norms and modern media continue to shape our perceptions of gender roles. While some students noted that movies and advertising still often reinforce traditional images of masculinity and femininity, others pointed out the growing influence of social media in amplifying diverse voices.
One student shared how she struggled with appearance-based pressure on Instagram but gained confidence after seeing creators who challenged conventional beauty standards. Another spoke about encountering different cultural expectations during an internship abroad, which broadened his understanding of gender expressions.
In a final reflective round, students were encouraged to share personal experiences of breaking gender stereotypes. Many spoke up bravely, sparking conversations that were both humorous and heartfelt. It was not only a chance to practice English fluency, but also an opportunity to explore societal norms and rethink personal values.
The event concluded with warm applause and positive feedback. Students expressed appreciation for the space to speak freely, learn from one another, and grow both linguistically and personally. As the last English Learning Corner of the year, it truly embodied the spirit of inclusive and meaningful language learning.