Welcome to this week’s installment of Geek Girl Authority Crush of the Week, wherein we shine a spotlight on strong women who inspire us. Now, this not only includes fictional female characters in geeky media, but creators as well. These ladies are a prime example of female empowerment and how crucial it is for kids to have said example to follow.
DISCLAIMER: The following is rife with spoilers galore for Dan Harmon‘s cult classic Community. If you’re not already caught up with the show everyone’s saying is “streets ahead,” then you need to remedy that now. Mosey on over to Netflix, folks!
Annie Edison
Fast Facts:
Now, Annie Edison (Alison Brie) spent her childhood steeped in academia. Her mother incessantly pushed her to excel in school, which led to an addiction to Adderall. Eventually, Annie lost a college scholarship, her virginity and subsequently dropped out of high school due to the aforementioned substance abuse. Annie had a nervous breakdown, and the tipping point involved her jumping through a plate glass window. As a result, she suffered severe injuries. Later, Annie entered rehab, extricated herself from her family, and enrolled at Greendale Community College. Her high school crush, Troy Barnes (Donald Glover), also attended Greendale and the pair wound up in the same study group together.
Next, Annie made fast friends with the members of her study group and developed an infatuation for Jeff Winger (Joel McHale). The duo fostered their connection during their time at Greendale, but nothing further was explored beyond a kiss. After four years, Annie graduated from Greendale. Her first job post-college was as a pharmaceutical representative. However, she re-enrolled at Greendale to pursue a degree in forensics. After the spring semester of 2015, she took on an internship with the F.B.I. during her summer break.
The Real Deal:
Annie is the real deal, folks. She’s immensely book smart, for starters. In addition, her tenacity is unmatched, particularly where her struggles with addiction are concerned. Despite her mother’s desire to sweep that nervous breakdown under the rug, Annie chose accountability and the path to recovery by entering rehab. Facing one’s demons is no easy feat. It takes strength and courage, which Annie most certainly possesses. Not only that, but she’s clever and witty. Annie is unmitigated in her loyalty to her friends. She also wears her heart on her sleeve and isn’t ashamed to show vulnerability. Initially, Annie’s naivete was quite noticeable, but she evolved substantially over the course of Community. Isn’t that what it’s all about? Personal growth?
Why She Matters:
Alright, why does Annie matter? Besides being the “Annie” of it all, she’s an intelligent, driven woman who pursues what she wants. Yes, she appears to fit the “girl next door” trope, but there’s so much more brewing beneath the surface. Annie also set her sights on a career in forensics, which is pretty damn cool if you ask me (and you did). Now, kids everywhere can draw inspiration from Annie’s future groundbreaking work with the F.B.I.
So, be like Annie. Be inquisitive and curious. Push yourself as far as you can go, but also be cognizant of your boundaries. Know that you can truly make a difference in this world. Oh, and never be afraid to whip out “Hector the Well-Endowed” or “Caroline Decker” from your persona arsenal. In case you need to change your identity and live out the remainder of your life in total isolation, of course.
RELATED: 10 Things We’d Love to See in a Potential COMMUNITY Movie
This article was originally posted 5/13/20
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What I do: I'm GGA's Managing Editor, a Senior Contributor, and Press Coordinator. I manage, contribute, and coordinate. Sometimes all at once. Joking aside, I oversee day-to-day operations for GGA, write, edit, and assess interview opportunities/press events.
Who I am: Before moving to Los Angeles after studying theater in college, I was born and raised in Amish country, Ohio. No, I am not Amish, even if I sometimes sport a modest bonnet.
Bylines in: Tell-Tale TV, Culturess, Sideshow Collectibles, and inkMend on Medium.
Critic: Rotten Tomatoes, CherryPicks, and the Hollywood Creative Alliance.
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