People say to cherish your college years because they go by in a flash.That’s a piece of advice that freshmen usually receive, but we still need to be reminded of that even as we get older. As freshmen, we learned so much in one year. We learned how to live away from our parents, how to have patience when a friend needs you to pick them up at 3 a.m., and how to clean up puke.
Sophomore year is a different story, but we still learned a lot—mostly just that freshmen can be really annoying. We also learned to have more focus on our career goals. We realized that we are more mature than we were as freshmen. Juniors and seniors reading this probably are thinking that I am still immature and am still learning how to do the whole college thing. But, hey, I have two more years to perfect this whole college thing.
Is it even possible to master the art of college life? Maybe. I believe one important secret is to make the most of it. It seems so simple, but sometimes we don’t care enough. We might be lazy and tired one night and would prefer to stay in bed watching Netflix. This may seem like it can contribute to the memories you make during your college career, but is it memorable enough to be told to your children or grandchildren? Will you be sitting with your friends ten years from now and ask them if they remember that one night you watched Netflix? Many people already watch Netflix and sit around doing nothing. 
Sometimes you have to take risks, get out of your comfort zone and do something that you and your friends will remember for a long time. We, as students, are so concerned about living in our perfect bubble where nothing can go wrong. So, pop that bubble and do something that your future self won’t be able to do. Go crazy and live a little. You probably are doing that now, but going to the same bar every weekend is not the most exciting thing ever. Do something different with your friends, even if that includes a random drive to Austin at midnight to plant purple flowers on UT’s campus. The most random things can be the most memorable.
Also, remember to do something that makes you happy. College is stressful and that can really take a toll on your health. Doing things that make you happy will improve your health and overall outlook on life. If going to a party makes you happy, then do it. Get up early to watch the sun rise with a special someone. Things like this will be burned into your memory for years to come. Also remember to do the little things in life. Smile more. Dance a little crazier. Eat that million-calorie snack before your metabolism slows down. Never underestimate the little things. You could make your day and somebody else’s day a whole lot better.
These little lessons are just a few things I learned my sophomore year and have truly made a difference on how I view my life. You won’t get these college years back, so make the most of it. No matter what year you are, enjoy the time you have left. When you live more, you learn more.