College Towns. Every state has one, but none compare to mine.

Living in Oxford, I never knew of the significance of a "night on the square". As I begin my second year here, I have finally found the importance of it. Going out in college is your first real key to freedom. You have the responsibility for yourself, your actions, and where you go afterwards. When you look back, you have precious memories to hold on to. In twenty years, you will look back on those times and realize you made some really horrible decisions and some really amazing ones. You meet people and you become friends. These are the people you rely on when you've perhaps gone a little overboard. (It's okay. Everyone has had one or two of those nights.) Going out is something you need to do. Don't let it interfere with your school though!!! That is why you went to college. Hopefully. If you can handle both, then props to you! On the town, you create memories and begin to love your surroundings. The people around you help in this process and eventually are at your side all the time. These people could one day be your maid of honor at your wedding. They could be the people you go on vacations with. These people are the ones who will still laugh at your mishaps ten years later even if you are not.

Going out my first year I didn't have a clue. As it time went on, I learned how to go out successfully and responsibly. I gained self-confidence and respect for myself. I stood up for my morals and what I believed was right and wrong. There were times when this was tested, but in the end I found myself. I discovered what I wanted. I hit a few roadblocks along the way and struggled with how I was changing and how I was perceived. I saw a different person in the mirror. One who was strong willed and confident. I saw someone who took care of themselves. Going out means growing up. You learn how to conduct yourself. You learn survival skills. (Not kidding on this one) Going out taught me to be who I wanted to be. I became a better version of myself. I moved on from the past and pushed forward to the future. Being out on a Friday night gave way to more amazing memories than I could have ever imagined in high school. I never thought that I would still be going out with the same people as last year. We lived together on a cramped floor in a dorm and now we are spread out across miles, but going out kept us close. We continue to create amazing memories and laughs. Going out creates a life that teaches you about yourself, your friends, your lifestyle, your body, and your future. Go out, have fun, create memories like I did. Of course, be responsible and be yourself. Everything else will come in time. So go out and experience your college town. You'll only be there for a short time so you better make it count.

Thank you to my amazing going out buddies. Without you I would not have survived freshmen year and created as many amazing memories as I did. Here's to round two!