Also, "struck a chord" means that something resonates positively, not negatively. You know, like a harmonious chord in music. Maybe "struck a nerve" is the cliche you were looking for?
As a Community Development major at PSU, I'm saddened by these suggestions. Give a class in the C.D. or M.U.R.P. program this assignment instead of a design class and you'd get at least one real project out of it.
~shudder~
"Who would that day effect most?" AFFECT
"...from the might Willamette River." MIGHTY
Also, "struck a chord" means that something resonates positively, not negatively. You know, like a harmonious chord in music. Maybe "struck a nerve" is the cliche you were looking for?