Growing up, college was depicted as a real-life fairy tale. You show up the first day, everything is in order, and somehow you manage to bump into the man of your dreams. No one tells you about the long lines, somewhat rude resident directors, and angry parents who swear their kids' needs are the only thing that matters. Hence, college is not for the feeble.
Finishing college in exactly four years is not always possible. Between classes, extracurricular activities, jobs, and socializing, there is not much time to be spared. Not to mention the various swings of depression, breakups, and failed tests that will come about in a four-year span. Graduating on time is the ultimate goal, but I seriously doubt your future employer is going to question why it took you one extra semester to obtain a degree. If they do, your problem is a lot deeper than an extra semester. The main goal is to move at the pace you feel is necessary and keep moving forward.
Whether you're a first-generation college student or someone who comes from a lineage of college graduates, do what you feel is best for you. Everyone's path is different although we are working towards the same goal. There are plenty of people who are willing to give their input and "invest" in you. Ultimately, it is your life and you move as you feel is necessary.
There is no time stamp on success. It's simply about who wants it the most and is willing to do whatever it takes to get there.
