El Cajon Library: Virtual Time Capsule 2024
Students from El Cajon interested in filmmaking were selected for this oral history project. They were asked to produce a video telling us something of meaning to them. The three film workshops they attended emphasized the importance of self-expression, digital literacy, and archive. Each student wrote, filmed, and edited their own video.
Stories posted with artists’ permission.
Don't Let Anyone Change Who You Are
By Mia A.
In her video, young Mia reflects on the importance of embracing individuality, sharing how she challenged a classmate's belief that superheroes are only for boys and affirming that everyone should be free to like what they love—regardless of gender.
Citation
Aldama Lopez, Mia. Don't Let Anyone Change Who You Are. 2024. https://www.sdcl.org/elc-time-capsule-2024/
Filipino Culture
By Andhy C.
In Andhy’s video, the young elementary school student reflects on the significance of her Filipino culture, family, traditions, and food. She also highlights the joy of family and her favorite dish, lumpia.
Citation
Caminos, Andhy. Filipino Culture. 2024. https://www.sdcl.org/elc-time-capsule-2024/
By Paulina F.
In Paulina’s video, she reflects on her 2-3 years of experience in Ballet Folklórico, recalling how nervous she felt during her first performance. She encourages others to try traditional dances, not only from their own culture but from other cultures as well.
Citation
Figueroa Tamayo, Paulina. Ballet Folklorico. 2024. https://www.sdcl.org/elc-time-capsule-2024/
The Importance of Math
By Reja H.
In Reja’s video, he explores the power of math, highlighting how it's used every day and has boosted his confidence. Known as the "human calculator," Reja shares how math has not only made him smarter but also helped him build friendships.
Citation
Hamed, Reja. The Importance of Math. 2024. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution‑NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY‑NC 4.0). https://www.sdcl.org/elc-time-capsule-2024/
Licensing
This film is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution‑NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
Life With My Best Friend
By Celine B.
In Celine’s video, the young elementary school student reflects on the importance of her friendship with her best friend, whom she met in first grade.
Citation
Bouzerma, Celine. Life With My Best Friend. 2024. https://www.sdcl.org/elc-time-capsule-2024/
Friendships
By Reetaj A.
In her video, Reetaj reflects on the importance of friendship, acknowledging that while friends are essential, sometimes they can be mean. She shares her thoughts on navigating both the joys and challenges of friendship.
Citation
Alamiri, Reetaj. Friendships. 2024. https://www.sdcl.org/elc-time-capsule-2024/
The Power of Self-Talk
By Zilas B.
In his video, Zilas reflects on the power of self-talk. He recalls struggling with negative thoughts throughout his life, particularly during a summer family trip when he faced a huge slide. Zilas learned to challenge the negative voice in his head. He now encourages others to practice positive self-talk and to question whether their fears are truly based in reality.
Citation
Bouzerma, Zilas. The Power of Self-Talk. 2024. https://www.sdcl.org/elc-time-capsule-2024/
Credits & Partners
Teaching Artist & Education Programs Manager: Edwin Cruz
Programs & Grant Manager: Seth Gadsen
San Diego County Library Grant Administrator: Angelica Snyder
SDCL El Cajon Library: Jill Burke
TED-Ed Coordinator: Holly French
TED-Ed Organizer: Jenn Petraglia
This project was made possible with support from California Humanities, a partner of the NEH.
Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in these films do not necessarily represent those of California Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Interested in becoming a filmmaker?
Check out the classes at Media Arts Center San Diego or use these simple instructions and worksheet (PDF) for steps to create your own two-minute oral history video!