College is a time of cultural development. Thousands of contrasting cultures, styles, ethnicities and backgrounds walk amidst the sidewalks. The cars parked in the Penn State parking lot range from the Honda minivan still proudly sporting a "Penn State Mom" sticker to the 2016 Range Rover so new that it doesn't yet have a license plate. We live in a generation that admires the wealthy and aspires to become the prominent faces featured in Forbes. However, as college students with $100,000 loans, we must resist the temptation to live outside of our means.
Labeled as the "impatient generation," we've come to expect everything now. Text messages, emails, Snapchats, phone calls; all transferred immediately with the advance of technology. That being said, our impatient attitudes bare a sense of entitlement. We want to drive that Range Rover, proudly display a new Chanel purse, wear a Rolex purchased with leftover loan money. However, this is not the time. (No pun intended).
As the future nears, anticipation for a high-quality lifestyle continues to grow. Once unrealistic goals become within grasp, and life starting to shape into independence. A BMW once stared at in awe sits awaiting your purchase. However, it is important to remain patient. Seemingly nonexistent loans will become evident, and six-figure debt soon faces us all. When the debt is paid and independence is established, the luxuries will come.
Right now is the time to work. How hard we work will determine the quality of life we have in the future. If you want a Rolex, earn it. Study hard, get a good job and you will have whatever you set your mind to. I leave you with this message: Slow down, enjoy the college experience and the material things will come in time.
