Virginia

Virginia is the main setting in which Tolentino attended college at the UVA. It is also the setting in which Jackie accuses a fraternity for sexual assault. Consequently, Virginia is symbolic for the cycle of rape and indifference that plagues our country on a national scale. Although Virginia is characterized as a liberal college town that demonstrates both ease and grace, Tolentino argues that underneath its vibrant aesthetic appeal is a city teeming with problems of classism and sexism.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is the main setting addressed in “Reality TV Me”. This is the place where Tolentino starred in the reality TV show Girls v. Boys. Due to its association with Tolentino’s brief stint in reality television, Puerto Rico represents glamour and indulgence. It is an island where Tolentino experiences a mindless excitement associated with the predictable challenges offered by the show. Due to its...