I've always preferred to do things on my own. When I'm by myself, I'm in control and can spend my alone time doing whatever I want for as long as I want. Spending time by myself is one of the few things I do that comes without obligations. I have plenty of friends, who I see several times a week and enjoy doing so, but there's just something about being completely on my own terms that I can't experience elsewhere. It's important to not always rely on friends in order to do something. The world doesn't change based on how many people you're with.

Sadly, the social pressures a young person faces, as well as the desire to be seen as someone who people want to hang out with, creates a stigma against spending time alone. People who keep to themselves are often seen as boring loners who don't like excitement. There's quite a long list of stereotypes of those who like to fly solo, from playing video games all day to having an arrogant personality, to not practicing good hygiene habits. I find these hilarious because I still haven't set up my Xbox since I moved into my apartment, get irritated when ANYONE talks too much about their accomplishments, and only skip the shower if it's a lazy stay at home day. However, I've reached a point in my life where these stereotypes don't bother me at all.

I started doing things alone by nature as a kid because I was easily bothered by people. When I reached high school age, I matured and began to develop a great friend network, and continued this networking through college.

Now, a sentimental college senior, I can honestly say that I love all my friends. Not many others understand this, but no matter how much love I have for my friends, I'll always value and covet my alone time, regardless of what others might think.

For me, there is so much importance in spending "time away from it all" when things get stressful. I think that one of the many reasons for high-stress levels in today's young people is not taking enough time to get away and reflect without anyone else.

Here, in Philadelphia, the possibilities for what I do with my alone time are endless. I often spend time around City Hall, University City, South Street, and Logan Square.

Sometimes, I stay in the Temple area to do errands or homework. If I've done everything I need to do for the day but don't want to get a subway, I'll sometimes watch sports at a bar and talk to whoever's there that day. That's another important aspect; just because someone is by themselves, don't assume that they are antisocial. Chances are, they're a lot like me.

Alone time should really be embraced rather than wrongfully thought of. It's very important to take a step back in order to think about everything going on in life. So, get out there and try flying solo for a few hours! You never you; you might actually enjoy it.