I knew I matured in college when I had to cook my own dinner and did not need my friend’s assistance. I did not need to call my mom because I did not know how to make my pasta taste like hers. I did not want to cry when the only thing I liked to eat at the cafeteria was mashed potatoes, for a week-long. I did not talk to my parents constantly and get nervous when I did not. I was able to adjust to my environment on my own. I was able to be independent.

I knew I matured in college when I saw friendships begin to dwindle away, and I saw that was okay. I stopped talking to my best friend every day, every week, every month. However, I knew that the friendship did not fade. I still had that friendship, but I did not need to see it and feel it at all times to know that. I learned how to go to the bathroom alone during lunch. I learned there would be times where I sit in the cafeteria alone, and when it feels like everyone is staring at you, no one notices or cares. I did not have to see my boyfriend every day or talk to him at every second to know that we are still okay. I learned that the relationships and friendships that matter would not be affected by distance.

I knew I matured in college when I realized being nice to everyone all the time does not always make you a good person. It is okay to be genuine about your feelings and not to forgive everyone who apologizes. It is okay to refrain from calling the person who hurt you, just because you miss them. It is okay to miss someone, but know that they are not the most desirable person for your happiness at this point in your life. I learned that removing toxic people from your life does not make you a bad person; it makes you a strong one.

I knew I matured in college when I realized how important my future is, but also how important my mental health is. It is okay to get a few extra hours of sleep occasionally rather than studying all night if you are sleep deprived. However, it is also, important to take the time to study for hours on hours for finals. I realized it is not weird to go to the library alone and the quiet floor is more necessary than your friend’s boy drama at times. It is okay to take a break, but schoolwork should always be a main priority.

I knew I matured in college when I found myself and I was proud of who that person was. I did not have to be the girl who was walked all over. I searched for friends that brought out the best version of me, rather than tarnish my reputation and chose friends that would accept me for my interests, enmities, and opinions. I found the version of myself I always wanted to be, and decided to endure the responsibilities of being that person. I decided to be happy and do all possible to stay happy at all times. I knew I matured in college.