I grew up on Spongebob. As a child, I would always look forward to his laughter echoing through the house, the silly jokes and gags always flying over my head but still bringing a smile to my face. As I got a little older, I stopped watching as much. Homework, extracurriculars, and work took up too much of my time. However, now I am in college, and with a little extra time on my hands, I have found my way back home.

1. When I'm sick

Giphy

There is never a better time to feel nostalgic than when you're sick. When your stomach is roiling, your head feeling like a watermelon, and your nose all sorts of stuffed, there's something absolutely magical about some silly comedy and some childhood reminiscing. I always turn Spongebob on when I'm sick because it reminds me of being at home, with my mom and dad caring for me and my blankets and stuffed animals. It truly makes a terrible time so much better.

2. When I'm studying for finals and need a break

Giphy

Finals season was tough. I packed four finals into those two weeks, two of which were on the same day. I did A LOT of studying in those precious two weeks without classes, packing in almost 6-8 hours of studying daily. To help relieve the monotony of studying, I mandated that I was to watch two episodes of Spongebob (they are paired) with my lunch. It was a huge help, giving me something to look forward to everyday and keeping me motivated throughout the studying. Safe to say, it's a tactic I will continue using this upcoming finals season!

3. When I'm sad and/or stressed

Giphy

Like I said, Spongebob is comforting to me. There's nothing like some stupid humor when you're feeling miserable. It's a great way to throw oneself into a different world, albeit for a brief period time, and forget about your problems in the now. Spongebob is mindless and fun, allowing you to take your thoughts off of whatever is getting you down and turn that frown upside down.

4. When I'm lonely

Giphy

The sound of silence can be particularly scary, and to ward it off I often crank that Spongebob. House is empty? time to make some noise and put a Spongebob disc in. Roommate gone? Time to watch Spongebob as loud as possible. Doing laundry and bored out of your mind? Eating lunch/dinner by yourself? Need something to pass the time while waiting for your friends to Snapchat you back about your pending plans? Spongebob's got you then and more.

5. Whenever I need to remind myself of who I am

Giphy

Sometimes, we lose ourselves in this mess. Whether we've had a bad interview, a rejection letter, a relationship end, or a friend stop responding, we often question ourselves and who we stand for. I know I've had moments I have wondered who I am and what I am doing. As you might have guessed, Spongebob has helped me in those moments. It's reminded me of my silly side, of my sense of humor, of the sense of individuality I have taken from the show. It's the silliest thing in the world, but Spongebob keeps me grounded. It reminds me of my past and what I'm working toward in my future. It is a part of me.

Whether just a casual fan or a hardcore Spongebob fanatic, one can find the show is appropriate for all occasions. I know Spongebob has gotten me through tough times and I hope it will accompany me through many more.