Many of the greatest innovations throughout history have come from individuals who were able to see the potential in things that others had disregarded as not interesting enough, or not worth changing. Creativity allows us to approach problems and challenges with a fresh perspective, to think outside the box, and to come up with new solutions that can change the way we live and work. Political science is an important field of study that helps us understand the functioning of our societies and the decisions made by our governments. While some may find the subject matter dry or complex, it is important to recognize the value and relevance of political science in our daily lives. Our latest Cool Face of Bastet Nor is an example of how creativity can be used to transform these existing topics into fresh perspectives, that in turn inspire people to learn more.
Lauren Cella is a media studies graduate, history teacher, and content creator with over 130K followers on the video sharing app TikTok. Her hilarious videos of history explained in Gen Z speak have racked millions of views and thousands of comments applauding her on her innovative approach to storytelling. Thanks to Lauren, teenagers (and adults alike) can now take in bite sized chunks of historical facts while scrolling on their feed, which is a major win in our books! Continue reading to find our more about Lauren’s inspiring story.
Lauren Cella is wearing The Mary Trench Coat, custom-made for her
Who is Lauren Cella?
I am a media studies graduate, history teacher, content creator, wife, and new mom. I kind of freaked out when I turned thirty this year, but this life just keeps getting better.
What’s your morning routine like?
I am usually running late but I try to get out the door before 7AM to grab Dunkin’ Donuts iced coffee via drive thru. I listen to songs from 2009 or earlier with the volume too loud. The makeup routine happens in the car or right before class starts. If my hair is down and styled, (not in a messy bun) it’s a good morning. I try to make all my copies and lesson plans in advance, but it doesn’t always work out that way.
Your unique approach to history and storytelling through comedy gained you a huge following on the social media app TikTok, and we’re big fans! How did this idea first come to be, and did you expect it would acquire so much interest?
Thank you so much for the support. I am a real teacher, so my inspiration is usually based on all of the funny, relatable things that happen in the classroom each day. I just imitated the way my teenage students speak in an exaggerated way. I was also inspired by millennial classics such as Clueless and Legally Blonde. I studied journalism and history at San Diego State, where I learned about and witnessed great storytelling. I started this “series” more than a year ago but I stayed consistent and eventually it paid off. It was unexpected, I thought for sure I was a viral one hit wonder. Turns out, there is a huge demographic of people who want to be informed about history, but feel like it is not attainable.
Lauren Cella is wearing The Mary Trench Coat, custom-made for her
Humour and Gen Z speak have proven to be a fantastic duo on social media, and incorporating them in educational content is creative and new. Does the feedback you receive inspire you to do something more in the two spheres that seem like they have nothing in common, i.e entertainment and social sciences?
My students were the ones who encouraged me to join TikTok and post lessons on Instagram. I have spent my career developing a history curriculum that is engaging for my own students and I was thrilled to see the message resonate with millions of users from all generations. The social sciences are often elitist and exclusionary by design. The number one comment I receive is something like, “I finally get it now,” or “where was this lesson when I was in school?” Of course, I infuse my reels with pop culture (there’s always a Taylor Swift reference) and humor to keep things fun, but the facts are real. It’s all about access. Once kids (or anyone) realize they can understand historical concepts, they want to learn more and the academic vocabulary comes naturally. I don’t think I am making history entertaining, I think other people make it boring…it actually IS entertaining!
Three things you wish you knew before starting out?
For life; No one really knows what they are doing 100% of the time. Most people are wrapped up in their own lives, they probably don’t sit around thinking about what you did wrong that day, so just go for it. Imposter syndrome is real and held me back for a long time.
For teaching; Teenagers can tell when you care and when you don’t and will respond accordingly. Meet them where they are and encourage them as a whole person. They probably won’t remember every date from World War I but they will remember feeling empowered and valued by their teacher.
For social media; This is a tough pill to swallow but creators need to provide value to a specific niche (education, inspiration, entertainment). I had to unlearn the MySpace, Facebook and early Instagram habits such as posting my lunch, family photos, or random selfies. No one except your IRL friends and family cares about that kind of content, so if you want to reach a larger audience, it requires a complete mindset shift.
Lauren Cella is wearing The Mary Trench Coat, custom-made for her
Biggest setback in life and what you’ve learned from it?
There have been a few times in my life where I had to “start over.” It was hard, but worth it. Now I know that I can, and likely will, have to do it again. I’ve seen jobs, friends, circumstances, social media platforms come and go. Almost everything is temporary, and that’s okay. I believe our creator has a plan that is higher than mine.
Books that changed your life
Lies My Teacher Told Me by James W. Loewen
Favorite female empowerment speech
They literally show this video at every single teacher professional development, but there’s a reason.
What’s in your Bastet Noir cart?
I can’t decide between The Shannon Set or The Arlan Set for once I get back from maternity leave. I love versatile, lifetime pieces that can be worn inside and outside the workplace. Maybe I just need them both.
If you liked Lauren’s story, there’s plenty more to come. Just hit that sign up button to get in our inner circle of coolness and shop ethical and eco-friendly dresses!