Very few shows have captured the day-to-day human struggle of relationships, school and expectations with such wit and honesty as Gilmore Girls. I personally discovered this television gem on a sick (*cough, cough*) day home from school and have been hooked ever since. A quirky or realistic aspect of each character resonates with me: Lorelei's coffee addiction, Rory's perfectionist pressure, Luke's inability to say what he's actually thinking. So here,

1. When you accept your caffeine dependency

Whether you're a regular at the coffee cart or a night spent in an espresso fueled, English-essay-writing frenzy has pushed you to take the plunge, no substance but coffee can truly be claimed as the unofficial sponsor of college experiences across the country.

2. When you sign up for a semester of 18 units, with 8 a.m.'s

When you clicked "enroll" and committed to this insane, borderline masochistic, course load, you were full of determination and drive. But, after week two the entrancing spell of productivity has dissipated and you are left with too much reading and not enough sleep.

3. When there's good food in the cafeteria

Some say it's a myth. Others swear they have witnessed the phenomenon in person. But, whether it hinges on your lever of hunger or a serendipitous second of Sodexo getting it right, days with edible food in the cafeteria often feel like an answered prayer.

4. Finals.

Enough said.

5. When your parents come and visit

Whether you saw them last weekend or it's been weeks, nothing beats the feeling of being reunited with your parents. They treat you to meals you can't afford, buy you groceries and provide you with the emotional support to make through the next long stretch of not seeing them.

6. When you handle life's problems like an adult

There is a grave misconception that once you enter into college, you somehow become an adult. But, between getting a job, juggling classes, taxes, renting apartments and making sure you remember to put on shoes before you leave the house, sometimes you feel more prepared for kindergarten then the real world. Deal appropriately: get a taco.

7. When your beliefs are challenged

College exposes you to a myriad of new opinions and perspectives, not all of which will be in line with your own. Whether they come from a fellow student or a professor, be open to hearing how other people view the world, but don't be afraid to advocate for your own beliefs, no matter how different they might be.

8. When you try to get out of plans/class/commitments

Some days/nights are best left to Netflix in bed. College is a time to get especially creative with your excuse making. Tired? Meh. Food poisoning? Better, but still lacking in creativity. Unknown disease you picked up abroad that's just flaring up now and will be gone tomorrow? Perfect.

9. When you describe your relationship status

Whether they came from television shows, Seventeen Magazine or young adult novels, your pre-college perception of relationships was probably more optimistic than the reality. When it feels like everyone around you is coupling up, take a deep breathe, remind yourself that you are the only Significant Other you will ever need, and take yourself on pizza date.

10. When things go your way

Maybe it's a good grade on a paper, or a night out with friends, or your favorite meal is being served in the cafeteria, but with all the stressful things happening in your life, it is important to fully embrace celebrating the beautiful moments.

11. When you find people who "get" you

Classes, clubs and housing all offer perfect opportunities to meet new people. Bonding over a favorite TV show, the torture of an especially difficult GE or the joy of a shared interest, nothing beats the feeling of being totally in sync with someone you previously called a stranger.

12. When you graduate

Congratulations! Your years of hard work have finally paid off. You are a certified graduate. Now, take that piece of paper that tells the world you have a basic grasp on complex concepts and conquer the world.