It is crazy to believe that college graduation is around the corner—I can’t believe it. It is graduation season, and an uncle of mine asked the question, “So tell me, what have you learned while being in college?”
During my senior year in college I have realized that I have learned more than I have ever learned in any other period of my life. I was not able to pin point one exact lesson or skill, because everything in college whether it be in the lecture hall or the dorm room it has come in handy. I have come up with the lucky seven life lessons that college taught me.
1. I learned about myself and who I am.
Through the years, the failures, the ventures and new activities I began to figure out who I was and who I want to become. I acknowledged my strengths, my weaknesses, my interest and my personality. College taught me to stay true to myself, to not fall into the traps of being worried if I am liked or disliked. I also found independence by becoming comfortable on my own.
2. I know how to take care of myself.
In college I finally began to think about myself. Of course family members and friends care and check in but at the end of the day, it's me I need to be myself responsible for my actions. This goes along with health. I was very unhealthy my first couple years in college and learning the hard way was difficult. This goes along with taking care of your body and yourself, from anxiety disorders to exercising along with all the studying and working to make some money. When finals came around I would say I had no time for the gym, then I finally realized the gym was a place where I could get all my stress out. A simple 60 minute workout made me feel better; but don't get me wrong, I went straight back to the computer to continue studying.
3. As painful as it is to say, mother knows best.
I hate to admit it, but it is true. Sick to my stomach, a headache that made me feel as if I was going to faint and a final to study for on a Sunday morning. Called my mom and she said “Sweetie, it is okay, its just a hangover. You will be fine, drink water, eat some food, have a snack and then start studying. It will all work out.” Yup my mom is awesome, and now I will be walking across the stage in a couple weeks.
4. I learned who my friends are.
The importance of friends is something that everybody learns. When you are on your own, your group of friends becomes your second family. I was exposed to a variety of people with different beliefs, interest and personalities. I was able to connect with multiple people and become great friends. I have learned to surround myself with positive people who only make me better.
5. My GPA does not define me.
I was so caught up with numbers and concerns that not being a 4.0 GPA student made me a failure. After years of taking classes and learning skills in college that have made me better in my field, I feel successful and accomplished. Sure, a 4.0 sounds great but taking classes that make you critically think, work to the bones, almost cry and then pass with a B is a great feeling.
6. I have learned to budget.
Learning to budget was one the hardest lessons it definitely came in handy. It is safe to say that in college I have been broke 90 percent of the time. Thankfully, I have learned how to save some money. Being forced to be on a budget doesn't give you much choice between going out for a fancy dinner and enjoying a bowl of cereal. I am now making somewhat better financial decisions and I get to enjoy my fancy meals every now and then.
7. Enjoy life.
I am so happy with what college has taught me. Most importantly, it has taught me to enjoy life, task risks and have fun! Working in a cubicle might sound great for some, but after sitting in a desk for 16 years I think it's time to experience the world and visit the extraordinary and the unusual places out there.
