A year doesn't sound like a very long time, even when broken down into smaller portions such as months or days. 365 days ago I was a high school senior, just graduating, and scared about going to college. Like any other graduating senior I was panicking about dorm supplies, summer plans and how close I would be with my future roommates. After hearing that those four years would be the best of my life and ending up hating high school, I wasn't very hopeful for the future. If I could tell my past-self anything, I would say that that is complete bullsh*t.
High school wasn't the worst four years of my life, but it was nothing to go crazy about. I had friends, went out, and had great memories. However, the downside of high school left a bigger mark on my life. The drama in high school was my favorite part, hearing things about myself and others that were so far from the truth it was funny. Who cheated on the test during third period, to who got too drunk to function at the parties I never went to. Typical drama. Rumors spread faster than the stomach aches caused by the cafeteria food. With all this imprinted in my head, I didn't want to continue my education anywhere, home or away.
Over the course of two semesters you will learn many things as well. You will learn to try new foods, including the weird meat stations, and the soup that's greener than the grass on the chapel lawn. You will learn how to balance work, school, and socializing. You will learn your drinking limit, and what type of alcohol is your favorite. You will learn how to room with two other girls, without wanting to scream because of the PMS overload (sometimes). You will learn that you, personally, should not take classes earlier than 9 am, and that going out with a 9 am the next morning is a tragedy waiting to happen. You will learn who you can and cannot trust, and how much you can trust them. You will learn that your roommate will be one of your best friends, no matter how much you lose her stuff. You will also become a better person all around, thanks to the great people you meet.
High school wasn't a ray of sunshine, and neither is college. College is more work, stress, and responsibility, but the memories and friendship are worth the hassle. Asher Roth was right, I love college.
