From the time we are little, we are faced with early mornings, heavy backpacks and the strenuous workload of school. Through years of education and the process involved, we have finally worked our way up to the point of receiving a job after we graduate; however, getting there is not always so easy. Even though college is just four years, it takes longer than it should. Here’s why:

1. Pursuing a major

At 18 years old, it is assumed that we know exactly what occupation we want to practice for the rest of our lives. In reality, we don’t. Coming straight out of high school, the college transition can be quite an adjustment and choosing a major can add to the multitude of stress. Narrowing down a career decision for the rest of our lives is scary and often leads to the average student changing their major more than once, causing one to take extra classes to fulfill the requirements.

2. Gen Eds

Freshmen year, your schedule is nothing more than an eclectic mixture of many different classes. Cramming everything from English to history into your first year because they are required (but all a similar repeat of high school), may set you back, especially if they are not part of your preferred field of study.

3. Summer Classes

We could be cruising in the Caribbean, wake boarding on the lake or sightseeing in New Zealand, but instead, we are found stagnant for four hours a day in a stuffy, non-air-conditioned classroom. No one wants to spend time in school during the summer; however, it seems that doing so allows you to stay on track for graduating on time.

4. Classes are not offered every semester

If you attend a small school, you know how frustrating it can be. That one class that you need to graduate is either not offered in the correct semester or conflicts with the rest of your schedule. For big schools, a large wave of students may have to take the same class at the same time and you may not be able to enroll in that certain subject.

5. Transfer credits

Whether you are a transfer student or take summer classes at a different school, you are lucky if all of them are accepted. Course equivalences may not match up, leaving you with less time and money.

6. Electives

Before graduating, everyone is required to take a certain amount of credit hours, but if you have already completed all of your major courses the only thing left are filler classes. Basket weaving, drawing, painting, yoga, rock climbing; take your pick. The best part about these classes is that they are only worth half credits, so you can take as many as you would like if you can fit them all in.

Although college may take longer than anticipated, it is a positive growth experience. We are given the chance to learn about ourselves, make lasting friendships and discover what we want to do with the rest of our lives. Make the most of all opportunities, and remember to enjoy it!