After having left college months ago, it is quite clear that I can offer my critique of post-college life. On the balance, my life is better than it was during Georgia Tech. It is more peaceful and calmer, less stressful and hectic. My confidence is at a higher level and I feel that my social life and relationships are at a higher quality now. Finally, I feel that once I earn a million dollars; I’ll be set for life.
Life certainly does fly by, and I’d like to write this to future and current college students. Here are some pros and cons(5 for each) of college life as I experienced it at Georgia Tech:
Pros:
Many activities and events: College campuses, especially in urban areas, are filled with things to do from board game nights to crazy frat parties. There’s something for everyone and their favorite, obscure interest.
Many people to meet: College campuses are filled with many young people to meet and share Snapchats with.
A center of learning: College campuses are filled with experts in many subject areas. There are professors with PhDs, and there are overworked grad students who still know more than you do.
Freedom: College gives you so much freedom from day one, even illegal ones like underage drinking. It’s a great place to let loose for once.
Tolerant environment: College can be a great, tolerant environment for people who are often ostracized from mainstream, prejudiced society. LGBT folks and geeks can really thrive in a college environment where they can meet others like them and are appreciated for what they bring to the table.
Cons:
Immature people: Colleges can also be filled with really immature people. I know because I was one of them. Don’t be too hard on them; they’re only barely out of adolescence.
Tough financial situation: College is a trying time financially. Many students need to work part-time to survive, and it is hard to find good food and a good place to live. Not to mention booze isn’t free either.
Demanding academics: Many majors are actually really demanding. STEM majors are designed to teach you how to think and will literally make you intelligent. And liberal arts majors can be demanding as well with lots of reading and critical thinking.
Social justice warriors: College campuses have really fallen victim to the ideology of political correctness; it's an epidemic among the left-leaning students that inhabit these places. It can be tough to be a conservative surrounded by strong progressives and a progressive-friendly administration.
Hedonism: College can also feel like a time of mindless hedonism. This is reinforced by the endless party culture and popularity of binge drinking. It can be tough for more introverted and religious students who don’t find enjoyment in these things.
There you go. Hope you all found this useful.
