College is often thought of as an incredibly important time in a young adult's life. It is a time of finding out who you are and what you would like to do with your life. For many students, college is their first real taste of freedom.

For students who were forced to wear uniforms all throughout school (whether it be a plaid skirt or khakis) choosing what you can wear in college can be an exciting new freedom, and I believe everyone should respect that.

Some students can't wait to get to college and be able to sport all of the latest fashion trends any time they want to. For some students, dressing up and looking their best makes them feel powerful and ready to take on the day ahead. I, personally, feel as though throwing on a pair of jeans and a nice shirt or sweater makes me look and feel more confident and prepared to start my day.

I have heard stories of multiple students who have been judged for their decision to dress nicely for class. Comments like "Well, what are you dressed so nicely for?" are not a rare occurrence for students who prefer to dress nicely for class.

On the other hand, I also believe we shouldn't judge students who prefer to dress comfortably for class. An oversized tee shirt and Birkenstocks or flip flops is one of the most popular going-to-class outfit of recent years. Since when did valuing an extra half hour asleep over fashion become a crime?

Faculty and students alike should spend far less time worried about what others are wearing and more time focused on teaching or learning.

If getting up extra early every morning and dressing nicely makes you feel ready to take on the day, go for it. If sleeping in and grabbing something out of the nearest pile of clothes every morning makes you feel good, that's great too. After all, we're here to learn, not to be speculated upon by how we dress.