Now that I have officially graduated from college, I have started to reflect on what I have learned during my time as a college student. I've learned a lot about math, science and reading, but I've also learned some important life lessons. Here are just a few:
1. Not all of your friends will stay your friends.
I learned this during my first semester of freshman year. Not only did I grow apart from my high school friends, but I realized that some of the people I met during the first few weeks of college were not the people I thought they were. In college, not everyone stays your friend, but that's okay, because you will find those people who will last the test of time.
2. It's okay not to spend all of your time on schoolwork.
In high school, I spent hours every day on schoolwork, and had a 4.0 GPA. This was a great accomplishment, but looking back, I realize that I sacrificed so many opportunities to do homework. I know now that it's okay to "slack off" and get a couple B's. Allowing myself to relax and spend time with friends has made my life so much fuller, and even though I may not have that 4.0, I feel more accomplished.
3. Taking risks is the only way you're going to gain amazing memories.
Whether it be cliff jumping or joining a sorority, my best college memories came from doing something that I was unsure of at first.
4. Being yourself is much easier than pretending to be like everyone else.
I have to say, it's stressful pretending to like clothing and brands that you actually hate, and all it does is cause you to become friends with people who wouldn't like the real you. As cheesy as it sounds, it's much easier to be yourself, and find people who love you for you.
5. You will find the best friends in the strangest places.
I always joke about the fact that I have met the most important people in my life in the weirdest places. The bookstore, the audience at my acapella group's concert and a friend of a friend's dorm room don't seem like the places you'll meet lifelong friends, but if you keep your eyes open, they're out there!
6. Crying is okay.
I cry a lot. I used to be embarrassed by this, but now I know that sometimes, crying is exactly what you need to feel better.
7. It's okay not to do everything.
I was involved in the National Honors Society, Yearbook, Student Council, Backstage Crew, and had a job during high school. I loved being super involved in everything. In college, I've learned to take a step back and pick just a few groups that I really love and invest my time in them.
8. Sometimes, the best nights are the ones when you stay in and watch a movie by yourself.
I'm all for going out to the bar, or hanging out with a bunch of friends. Sometimes, though, it's nice to take time to yourself, lock yourself in your room, and watch Netflix.
9. You will fail.
Professors don't hand you A's for effort. Everything in life is hard work, and sometimes you'll mess up. That's okay as long as you pick yourself up again, learn from your mistakes and try again.
10. Experiences are more important than objects.
I love shopping more than anyone. However, I've learned that sometimes, it's better to forego the cute shirt, and save the money for a night out with friends or a trip to the city. Those experiences are what create memories, and you won't even remember what you wore ten years later.
11. If you look back at yourself after four years, and realize you are completely different, you did college right.
College will change you in the best way. You will learn who you are, what you like, and who you want to be. You will become a better leader and a better learner. Only if you see change in yourself at the end of four years did you truly do college right.
