In a world of drama and chaos, senior Daniela Garza has found an escape through the popular TV series Grey’s Anatomy, which, ironically, is filled with drama and chaos.
“I find an escape in [binge-watching Grey’s Anatomy],” Daniela said, “and it just brings me happiness and [increases] serotonin levels that a lot of people find in reading books or other activities. I feel like it’s one of my hobbies, too. It’s almost a sport, because you’re sitting down and then for like three hours watching the whole show… it just brings that happiness.”
Grey’s Anatomy sparked a passion for TV and film that has stuck with her since middle school. Despite the daunting number of seasons, she quickly fell in love with the show. It has been a consistent hobby to explore the endless possibilities of future careers, and it offers a nostalgic rewatch that provides a sense of security in an erratic world.
“I think there are 22 seasons,” Daniela said, “but I’ve watched the first maybe 15 seasons too many times to count…The first time I watched [Grey’s Anatomy] was in seventh grade when there were only 19 seasons out, and I finished it. It was the COVID era, so I watched it in three months.”
Additionally, she finds that it often reflects her own relationships in the connections between characters that grow throughout the seasons. One significant reason she loves the show in particular is watching the growth of characters’ bonds with each other, which she relates to and finds applicable to her real life.
“I really love the original characters, which are the first five interns: Meredith, Alex, Christina, Izzy, and George,” Daniela said. “I feel like all of their friendships I can see reflected in my own friendships. I love watching [Meredith and Christina’s] sisterly relationship because I relate to it too. I relate to these connections in other TV shows; that’s my favorite aspect of watching any show.”
Not only has this show reflected consequential relationships in her life, but it has also emulated an interest of hers: science. Daniela has been interested in science for almost her whole life, and it has always been her favorite subject. Grey’s Anatomy has made her realize that medicine is an occupation she’s interested in pursuing in the future.
“I love the fact that you can always learn something new,” Daniela said. “I love problem-solving and figuring things out. Human Anatomy [and Physiology] is my favorite class this year because of the environment, the teacher, the subjects we’re learning, and the way she teaches. The project we’re doing right now, which is drawing a whole skeleton, is so interesting to me. Also, I love drawing, so it’s great. It comes naturally to me.”
One thing that’s unique about Grey’s Anatomy compared to many other shows is that viewers learn more about the medical field and real illnesses through the show. For Daniela, the opportunity to learn more while doing something she loves is profound. This has strengthened and solidified her interest in medicine. Even though she remains unsure if she wants to go into pre-med or be in a veterinarian program, her passion was sparked by Grey’s Anatomy.
Daniela feels more confident in herself and her future now that she can see a clearer path ahead. Some may say that binge-watching TV shows is unnecessary and harmful for grades and productivity, but Daniela argues against this. She proves through her story that finding an inspiring TV show or movie can help her and others to find a niche interest. This hobby has supported her for many years and has assisted in her process of self-discovery.
“[My love of science/medicine] started because of Grey’s Anatomy,” Daniela said. “I’m definitely going into medicine or something similar. My favorite subjects have always been science-related, and I’ve always loved the science aspect of the show.”
