My top show recommendations to watch this semester
From comedy and musicals to drama, there is something for everyone
Amidst the hectic schedules of post-secondary life, students often find solace in television shows. (Pexels/Karolina Grabowska)
Post-secondary life is a whirlwind of classes, assignments, social activities, and personal growth. Amidst the hectic schedule, students often find solace and entertainment in television shows. These shows offer not only an escape from academic pressures, but also provide the opportunity to explore diverse themes and narratives that resonate with the college experience.
Here are my top five shows to watch while you’re studying this semester.
The Sex Lives of College Girls
Genre: Comedy
The show, which premiered on HBO Max, revolves around the lives of four college roommates as they navigate the challenges, adventures, and experiences of their freshman year at the prestigious Essex College. While the title of the series suggests a focus on the characters’ romantic and sexual experiences, it also tackles broader themes relating to friendship, identity, ambition, and the complexities of college life. Although I generally don’t watch Mindy Kaling shows, I’d highly recommend this show, especially for Reneé! The Sex Lives of College Girls can be found on Crave.
Glee
Genre: Musical/Drama/Comedy
Arguably one of the most controversial shows, on and off-screen, Glee is set in the fictional William McKinley High School and revolves around the lives of a diverse group of students who come together to form a high school glee club known as “New Directions.” Led by their passionate and eccentric teacher, Will Schuester, the students embark on a journey to revive the Glee club and compete in regional, national, and international choir competitions. Glee tackles various themes, including friendship, acceptance, self-discovery, and the challenges faced by teenagers. While the Glee curse definitely looms over, there’s no denying the show’s cultural impact. Not to mention our favourite CW heroes, The Flash and Supergirl, before they were Barry and Kara. Glee can be found on Disney+.
Grey’s Anatomy
Genre: Medical Drama
Grey’s Anatomy is a long-running medical drama television series created by Shonda Rhimes. The series is set at the fictional Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital in Seattle, WA, and primarily focuses on the lives and careers of a group of surgical interns, residents, and attending physicians. Dr. Meredith Grey, played by Ellen Pompeo, serves as the central character and narrator. In addition to its medical storylines, the show explores themes of friendship, love, loss, and personal growth.
I’d also recommend the spin-off show Station 19 starring Danielle Savre, Jaina Lee Ortiz, Stefania Spampinato and Boris Kodjoe. The show revolves around the firefighters at Station 19, a firehouse in Seattle. Led by their strong-willed captain, the team faces intense and life-threatening situations as they tackle fires, rescues, and emergencies while also dealing with personal challenges. You can watch Grey’s Anatomy on Netflix and Station 19 on Disney+.
Derry Girls
Genre: Comedy
Derry Girls is a hilarious British sitcom set in the 1990s during the Troubles—a period of conflict in Northern Ireland. The show follows a group of teenage girls—Erin, Orla, Clare, Michelle, and their English cousin James—navigating the challenges of adolescence while living in the city of Derry. With sharp wit and humor, it explores the girls’ friendships, family dynamics, and the absurdities of everyday life amidst political turmoil. As someone who loves British and Irish comedy like Citizen Khan, Mrs. Brown’s Boys, and Fleabag, I’d highly recommend checking it out. You can find Derry Girls on Netflix.
Firefly Lane
Genre: Drama
Firefly Lane is a heartfelt drama series on Netflix, adapted from Kristin Hannah’s novel. It weaves the story of lifelong friendship between Kate Mularkey and Tully Hart, portrayed by Sarah Chalke and Katherine Heigl. The show delves into their complex bond, starting from their teenage years in the 1970s through adulthood, navigating the ups and downs of their personal lives, careers, and families, all set against the backdrop of social and cultural changes. Full disclosure, you will never be able to listen to ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” the same ever again.
