College is such a stressful place for everybody. It's where everything really starts to count and it all leads up to your future. That's a big deal. But, who says you need college? I don't think going or not going decides what kind of person you will be. I certainly don't think it means you are any less of a person if you decide not to go either. I for one am not cut out for college and that is OK.

I had a summer job and loved every minute. I dreaded the day that school started. It's not the work that bothers me, it's the people. I don't like to be social. I'm happy being independent. I get overwhelmed in new situations and struggle with adjusting. I love my comfort zone. I couldn't stop time, though, so the first day of college came--it was my last, too. I didn't have any desire to go in the first place and when I got there, it just confirmed that it's not where I wanted to be. I cried in every class which is a total of six times. I was so ready to be out of there and I never wanted to go back. I've had lots of people ask me what went wrong to make me hate it so much and the answer is, nothing. Nope. Nada. There were no traumatic experiences that day, there were no unruly professors or staff, and there were no times I was completely alone with people I didn't recognize. So, what's my problem? I didn't want to be there. Of course, word travels fast too. Lots of people turn their nose up at the fact I "quit" college. My point to them is that ultimately it's my choice and one that I'm 100% happy with. It doesn't make me stupid. I'm not. And if I regret it one day, that's my problem not theirs. Needless to say, I've prepared myself for people to talk since I know they can't help themselves. I'm proud of what I've decided to do, though, because I'm doing what is best for me despite the negativity of others. I'm proud to be so comfortable with who I am that their words don't affect me. I'm proud that I can shake it off and live my life happily instead of miserably to please those around me. That takes more guts than it does to run your mouth.

I enjoy working. I don't see a thing wrong with having a work initiative instead of attending some university. I will still learn social skills, interact with people, and have new experiences. Deciding not to go to college is not the same as flunking out or drinking your way to the bottom. It was a choice I made for the betterment of myself. I guess everybody just assumes that I'll be laying on a couch everyday living off of my parent's money. Instead of gossiping, having the decency to ask what my plan actually is would be the mature decision you'd think. I'm working now and I have a career path planned out. I pay for anything I want, food, and gas for my car. I'm in no way lazy. Everyday I learn how to be more independent and take care of myself like someone my age should. I don't need college to teach me how to be an adult.

I made this decision on my own. I didn't let anyone tell me what to do. It's what I wanted and now I'm so happy I did it. Don't let someone make your choices for you. Own what you decide. Who knows you better than you? People will always tell you what they think you should and shouldn't do. Prove them wrong. It's the life that you have to live. Be happy with it. Never be afraid to be different or stand out. You are meant to! God will lead you the right way if you let Him so have faith and go for it. Just do you.