Now that I am nearing the end of my college career, I look at the wonderful moments I had in college and the future memories I will have in my final semester. Even though it has taken me longer than the average student to finish up, I would not change it for anything in the world. The time I have spent has helped me grow into a strong individual and I know for certain what I want for myself in the future. I have met some amazing people along, whom I know I can call life-long friends. There's just one little problem. Over the past year, I have noticed that my friends, especially those that I have met in my final year, are younger than me. There are several times where the age difference definitely becomes noticeable:
Con- How do they still have so much energy? I am ready for a nap!
Some nights, I can definitely go out and have the most amazing time, but unfortunately, the days where I was able to go out Thursday-Saturday are long gone. Some times, I just want to cuddle up, watch Netflix and eat pizza all night. There is nothing wrong with that! I don't want to say 'no' to going out, but this girl needs her sleep!
Pro- I can bring the WINE!
If any one of my younger friends is feeling sad about life or she is riding the struggle bus that day, I am old enough to go out and grab one, two or three bottles of wine, whatever the situation calls for. My friends know I will be there for them with a hug, ice cream and big bottle of the good stuff. Side note: If you think that new wine ice cream is a good idea, it's not. Save yourself the money and the heartbreak.
Con- Who/What are they talking about now?
Okay. I'll be the first to admit that I don't always know the latest gossip or celebrity news when it comes to my group of friends. It was only a couple of weeks ago I found out that it was one of the Jonas Bros in that band with that new song (you know the one I'm talking about, don't act like you don't). Having two jobs and a ton of responsibilities, I am not always able to keep track of what is going on. My friends accept that they may have to explain some things to me, but that's okay!
Pro- Oh! This used to be my song!
Did you think it was some hip young girl who decided to wear a choker and tie a flannel around her waist? Nope! It was a 90's baby who showed all of her young friends the trend. Us older girls can bring back new styles and songs that make everyone in the bar say "Yes! This song!" (or at least we like to tell ourselves that).
Pro- Oh, Honey.
Being a little older than some of my friends, I've been there and heard that. A rough break-up? Yup! Spent too much at the bar and blacked out for a bit? You know it. A professor giving you a grade you didn't want? Of course. The older friends have been through a lot, but that's what makes us so great! We are here to listen and help you through whatever you're going through. We know the best ways to get yourself out of a sticky situation and how to make your life more manageable. We know what works and what DEFINITELY does not.
So, it may suck sometimes to be the oldest member of your friend group and you may feel that you might not belong, but you're such an important person in your friends' lives and have a lot to offer. Keep being fabulous, you wonderful, sophisticated lady!
