As my freshman year is on its way out, I am looking forward to everything that I can accomplish and do over the summer break. It's almost time to break out those bucket lists friends; this summer is going to be the best one yet. From outdoor concerts, to seeing friends that go to a different university, to simply just being able to sleep in (maybe), the summer holds endless possibilities to relax and unwind from a hectic year.
My first year at college was a year in which I learned, I coped, I understood, and I had to time manage everything in my life just to stay above water. Most of that was my own doing, but rest assured, I have learned a few things from my first year that I will NEVER do again. These are the things I will not miss about college over summer break.
1. Dorm showers
I don't care if you live in a suite with your own shower, they still suck and nothing will compare to your shower at home.
2. The lofted bed
How many times have I almost knocked myself out by waking up suddenly or underestimating the height of the concrete ceiling above? Too many times to count in one year.
3. One word (ok two): Flip flops
You don't appreciate a good shower without flip flops until you have to wear them for a year straight in the shower. And the first time is the weirdest.
4. Dining hall food on the weekends
Here at Iowa State we are pretty lucky to have some great food most of the time, but the selection during the weekend is, to put it nicely, limited. Someone can only contemplate between cheese pizza and a hamburger so many times on a Sunday.
5. The neighbors
You take for granted the silence you can have in your own home. In a dorm however, you have to deal with the loud people above you who decide to blast rap music on a Tuesday at 2 a.m. in the morning.
6. Your roommate's sleep patterns
We all have different sleeping routines, so this one isn't a biggie. But, if you are a light sleeper, chances are you were very annoyed when your roommate was up till 2 a.m. or 3 a.m. in the morning, but you let it slide because that's what a good roommate does.
7. The endless test, exam, test, presentation, paper cycle
It seems as if all professors decided to follow the same schedules so that you'll have seven tests, three papers, and two presentations all due in the same week. Oh joy.
8. The shower caddy
Why must I tote around this huge thing back and forth from the showers? Oh the easy days of just leaving it all in one place for the next use.
9. Dorm water
It is your skin's worst nightmare. One word: moisturize.
10. Walking around in the harsh winter cold
This one is pretty self explanatory. Still don't know how I remained sane through those long winter months.
11. Missing your friends and family
Chances are you won't be missing them over the summer, so look on the bright side and relax, rewind, and enjoy the summer before it's over far too soon.
