College is often the place where many young people develop who they are and what they want out of life. The four years spent in college are usually considered the best four years of a person's life. I agree that college has been a great experience. It has helped me come a long way since graduating high school, but graduating from college is a bit more intimidating because it requires finding a job post-graduation, as well as living on my own without the assistance of my parents. It's a scary notion sometimes, but it's also a welcomed notion because it indicates that college graduates have the ability to be successful after graduating from an institution. Before graduation occurs, there are some life-changing events that take place for most undergrads, which can influence their long-term plans.
1. Sex/Non-committed Dating
College is most likely not the first time that people will engage in sex. Many kids are having sex at much younger ages today, but there are some that wait until they are older. College often presents the opportunity to have sex with whoever, whenever. It's a desired situation for some people, especially since it's the first time that students can do whatever they want without receiving discipline from parental figures. College sex often occurs without committing, which is having no-strings-attached sex with random booty calls. Again, some people prefer this type of interaction because it helps them get all of the wildness out before they jump into trying committed relationships. This type of interaction can have positive and negative effects depending on the person. If you have unprotected sex with someone you don't know, there's the possibility of coming in contact with an STI. There's also the possibility of unplanned pregnancy for women. So if you're going to have this type of sexual encounter, be sure to wrap it up; no glove, no love. There's also the fact that these type of relationships can effect someone emotionally, especially if it's a "f*** buddy" situation. One person develops feelings for the other, while the other doesn't notice. It's a difficult situation for some, so it's best to be careful about who you choose to have sex with.
2. Independence
College is usually the place where students gain independence because they're living hours away from home. They learn to take care of themselves and accept responsibility for the tasks that they have to accomplish. For me, I gained my independence quickly because I began learning how to care for myself on my own. I worked on campus, so I was also able to pay for the things that I needed. Now, I don't claim that I paid for everything. I still don't pay for my cell phone bill, but that's because work study jobs don't pay enough to support a steady phone bill every month.
3. College Dances
College dances are completely different from high/middle school dances, as well as clubbing. College dances are when people are looking to have sex. They go to these dances so that they can potentially go home with a stranger and get some without worrying about awkward introductions. The dancing is similar to having sex. It's a lot of bump and grind. Guys usually focus on the way girls are dressed and how their asses look when dancing. Guys will often pick a girl out of a group and pull her against the wall so that she can grind her ass against his crotch. That's the gist of college dances.
4. Bills
Believe it or not, there are things that you have to pay for in college, such as nurse visits. If they treat you for something, then you pay for the treatment...and it can be expensive sometimes. You can also be fined for certain dorm violations, such as safety hazards. My sophomore year, one of my roommates left an extra bed out in the living room, which was a violation. We all received a fine for that. Having financial responsibilities will make you manage your money better as well. #adulting
5. Obtaining a Job
Most college students work. It's a necessity for most of us because we want to be able to care for ourselves. I work three on-campus jobs and they all have given me different skill-level experiences. Being hired for these positions also gave me practice for actual job interviews. Some tips are to be professional, dress to impress, anticipate the questions you're going to be asked, and be confident. The first job I interviewed for my freshman year was the first time I got to practice these skills. I arrived early to show my employer that I was punctual. I wore professional attire. I was also confident in my abilities. All of these things impressed the person that was interviewing me and I got the job, and I've been in this position for almost four years now.
6. Turning 21
This particular birthday celebration could include all sorts of scenarios, so all I'm going to say about turning 21 is to be safe in your partying endeavors, and if your 21st is on a weekday, wait to party until the weekend because hangovers and classes don't mix well.
7. Engagement
This is the time when young people begin to date seriously, which can lead to getting engaged. I know numerous people who have gotten engaged in college. It's very common, especially among juniors and seniors who are about to graduate.
8. Applying to Grad School
This process is very painful, but worth it if you're looking to further pursue education. The one step that kills a lot of people is taking the GRE, which is required by many grad schools. It's like the SAT, but on steroids. Good luck to those of you who are applying to grad school and studying for this exam.
9. Being asked the "Life" Question
The first time I was asked this question was my first semester of junior year. My professor asked and I didn't have an answer for him. He wasn't the only person to ask me this question either. My parents and relatives asked constantly when I went home for break. I'm a senior now, so my answer has developed some. My issue with making this decision is that I love literature, and a lot of master degree programs require a narrow field. Literature is not a narrow field. It requires focus on a specific type of literature, and I couldn't pick just one. I have enjoyed all of my literature classes and have developed a taste for all kinds of material. Props go out to the people who know what they want to do after undergrad, because it's a tough decision to make.
10. Walking Across the Stage
This is one of the proudest moments that undergrads will have. This signifies that you made it through this portion of school and that you have a degree. For some, it signifies a proud moment for families because the child was a first-generation college grad. Either way, if you make it to this point you should feel proud of what you've accomplished.
