As my junior year of college starts to wind down, and summer is upon us, I am starting to feel more anxious about what is to come post-graduation. And with that fear comes nostalgia on what will be left behind once I leave campus (as a student) forever. Even though at times, college has tried my patience and sleep schedule, I am so happy that I followed the path that I did.

I love college because I love independence. In high school, I felt as if teachers, administrators, and coaches were trying to hold my hand constantly. In college, I make my own rules and I determine how much effort goes into something. I am not being coaxed to do things; I am doing the things on my own. Which is much more beneficial, in my eyes.

I love college because I love new people. I went to high school with the same kids I started kindergarten with, and I still know all sixty-seven people’s full names. Even though my campus is still relatively small, I have met people from all over the state, the nation, and the world. I have been exposed to so many new cultures and backgrounds, and it has built a new appreciation for my own culture.

I love college because I love being challenged. Not that any other career path isn't challenging, because they are, but for me personally, college is the most challenging route. Each and every day, I am being pushed to my limits. Most of the time, in a good way. And even if I am sleep deprived nine months out of the year, it is worth it to me. Each group project, essay, and novel is worth it to me.

I love college because I love learning. Even when I am not in the classroom, I am learning something new each and every day. And I love that in college, my peers want to be there. There were times in high school that positive learning experiences turned negative because a lot of my classmates did not want to be there. On campus, everybody wants to be there for one reason or another. This fosters a more positive learning environment, maximizing how much information I learn each day.

I love college because some of the best times of my life happened on my campus. I have made so many lifelong friends and so many impacting memories on my campus. Whoever said high school was the best four years of their life obviously did not go to college.

And just because college was for me, does not mean it is for everyone. I know a lot of people who chose trade school, technical school, or their career over college and they are just as happy. But do not let the stigma of college scare you away, because I promise you get out of it what you put into it. So put a good time into it.