I claim to be matured about two to three years past my age. In high school, specifically my freshman year, I knew what college I was attending and what I was studying three years before it mattered.

Now, at 21, I claim to know who I'll marry, the age it'll be when I have my first child and what occupation I'll have post college.

This all happened because I was forced to grow up at a young age. I was doing my laundry and making my own lunch while my friends in grade school had their parents doing that for them. I relate more now with people 10-15 years older than I am. For example, I went to a bar a few weekends ago after recently turning 21, and spent time talking to a 35-year-old, single mother who was explaining her excitement in her new position as a pre-school teacher. I had the greatest time. We exchanged numbers and she added me on Facebook.

When it comes to my friends, I always ask them, "Will your parents be there?" They understand why I ask.

My best and closest friend from home has the greatest parents I've ever met. Her parents also have awesome parents. I'm the type of friend who has a lunch date with her grandma without even telling her.

Hanging out with people my age usually turns into gossip and drama about who's dating who, who cheated on who, who was the most drunk at the latest party... All of which I couldn't care less about.

I've been told numerous times in my life that people's parents adore me. It's not because I'm sucking up to them, or have some ulterior motive. I just am curious. I love to ask questions and learn about them. Adults are so educated in the sense of their experiences. Even a middle-aged McDonald's employee has life experience worth listening to.

I think what I like most about adults is listening to their stories. They love to tell stories about their past, their children, their parents, etc. I've learned to listen and how to ask the right questions.

"So what led you to move to California after college?"

You have to know what to say. Most people my age get annoyed or don't care to talk to adults because they'd rather talk about the most recent drama occurring on campus. I'm the complete opposite. Adults give insight and help you get a better idea of what your future will look like. They'll ask you questions about your life and either relate to them, or explain why you should never settle and see the world before you decide to buy a house, dog and start a family.

"Your daughter is getting married this summer? That's so exciting, congratulations!"

Adults have a way of talking down to some college students because they think they are entitled or not really aware of the real world. The only advice I can give is:

Ask more questions. Be curious. Open your mind. If you do, you might just learn something.