Expressing how college students actually feel about college | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

College Is The Worst But Also College Is The Best

"These are the best of times, these are the worst of times."—was Charles Dickens in college when he wrote this?

126
Surrounded by school work
Celine McMonigal

I've noticed something about myself in the last few months; something rather odd. There are times when I feel completely overwhelmed by schoolwork, yet I absolutely love college. In fact, I fully intend on pursuing a Master's Degree after I graduate with my Bachelor's Degree next spring. So why do I complain about college so much when I know, deep down, that I love it?

So that's it - I don't hate the work. I love my classes; the hundreds of pages of readings per week, thousands of words written, multiple breaks to relieve my cramped right hand, many hours spent staring at a screen, the glasses I got at age 20 because my eyes get fatigued from reading or working on the computer, and lots of time spent chasing my dream of a degree. I love studying something I am actually interested in, taking classes I actually enjoy and pursuing a degree I actually care about. No, I don't hate it, I love it; I romanticize it.

I romanticize the late nights, tired eyes, and copious amounts of coffee. I idealize the library and the countless hours spent working there. I glamorize the huge and heavy backpack that weighs down my shoulders and symbolizes my hard work. I fantasized about having glasses because I knew they would make me look studious (and I actually love my glasses, but that's beside the point). But I hate the stress it causes me.

twitter meme screenshot

I hate stressing about how much sleep I will get and how tired I will be if I stay up late to finish an assignment. I hate having to decide between getting good sleep and staying up late to finish an assignment; cooking myself a meal or buying a meal to save time; waking up early to go to the gym or sleeping in because I was up late for school. I hate worrying about all I'm missing out on by constantly being bogged down by work. I hate thinking about grades so much.

But I'm not quite ready to graduate (which is good, because I still have another year). In fact, even after I graduate I want to continue going to school. I love this vicious cycle of trying to fit attending classes, doing homework, social time, work, adequate sleep, exercise, upkeep (cleaning) of my house, cooking for myself, and alone time (reading, watching movies, taking bubble baths) into my life. It seems impossible, and sometimes it truly is and some of these elements fall to the wayside because I have to prioritize, but this is the life I chose.

twitter screenshot

I love college; I hate stress.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
kid
Janko Ferlic
Do as I say, not as I do.

Your eyes widen in horror as you stare at your phone. Beads of sweat begin to saturate your palm as your fingers tremble in fear. The illuminated screen reads, "Missed Call: Mom."

Growing up with strict parents, you learn that a few things go unsaid. Manners are everything. Never talk back. Do as you're told without question. Most importantly, you develop a system and catch on to these quirks that strict parents have so that you can play their game and do what you want.

Keep Reading...Show less
friends
tv.com

"Friends" maybe didn’t have everything right or realistic all the time, but they did have enough episodes to create countless reaction GIFs and enough awesomeness to create, well, the legacy they did. Something else that is timeless, a little rough, but memorable? Living away from the comforts of home. Whether you have an apartment, a dorm, your first house, or some sort of residence that is not the house you grew up in, I’m sure you can relate to most of these!

Keep Reading...Show less
man working on a laptop
Pexels

There is nothing quite like family.

Family is kinda like that one ex that you always find yourself running back to (except without all the regret and the angsty breakup texts that come along with it).

Keep Reading...Show less
bored kid
Google Images

No matter how long your class is, there's always time for the mind to wander. Much like taking a shower or trying to fall asleep, sitting in a classroom can be a time when you get some of your best ideas. But, more than likely, you're probably just trying to mentally cope with listening to a boring lecturer drone on and on. Perhaps some of the following Aristotle-esque thoughts have popped into your head during class.

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

Advice To Live By As Told By Bob's Burgers

The Belchers hold the key to a better life.

1294
Bob's Burgers
Adult Swim

Bob's Burgers is arguably one of the best and most well-written shows on tv today. That, and it's just plain hilarious. From Louise's crazy antics to Tina's deadpan self-confidence, whether they are planning ways to take over school or craft better burgers, the Belchers know how to have fun. They may not be anywhere close to organized or put together, but they do offer up some wise words once and awhile.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments