It’s no secret that the college years are a challenging time for girls. We’re trying to make a future for ourselves, figure out who we are, and have some sort of a social life. Basically, it’s all very time-consuming and stressful. When we do have time to stay in and watch some television, the last thing we want to watch is some unrealistic model who has a perfect life. We want to watch female characters who are beautiful in their own unique ways and who roll with life’s punches. Honestly, we want to see some version of ourselves represented on the screen because we want to be inspired. If any college girl is looking for some inspiration, here are a few television characters who will do the trick:

Rory Gilmore

If you haven’t seen Gilmore Girls yet, do yourself a favor and start. The character of Rory (Alexis Bledel) is smart, thoughtful, and works extremely hard for her future. She also has some great romances on the show, but her world doesn’t revolve around her boyfriends. While this girl has fantastic qualities, you’ll see her go through some tough times as she’s trying to figure out life in her college years. You will likely relate to Rory in some way and be comforted by the fact that she doesn’t have everything figured out.

Mindy Lahiri

The Mindy Project is the perfect show for any college girl who needs to laugh after a stressful day of classes. Mindy Lahiri (Mindy Kaling) is a character that is realistic, hilarious, and confident. If you want to watch a comedy with a strong, independent female lead, you need to get on Hulu immediately and start watching this. Mindy is the kind of character who shows you how to be successful after college. She is never afraid to make fun of herself, but she also knows what she deserves. Mindy isn’t flawless, but she loves herself in a way that every girl should.

Cristina Yang

Dr. Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh) on Grey’s Anatomy is certainly a force to be reckoned with. She is a beyond brilliant surgeon who fights for what she wants. While she might not be as sensitive as some of the other characters, she is a great friend to have by your side. It’s likely that you’ll learn a new lesson from Cristina on every episode of this show. This woman is the definition of strength and is who all of us college girls aspire to be in some way.

Brooke Davis

If you haven’t seen the evolution of this character on One Tree Hill, you’re really missing out. Brooke Davis (Sophia Bush) started out as the stereotypical cheerleader in high school, but as she grew up she became a role model. Every girl can relate to her journey of finding self-worth, and she shows what kind of person you become

once you find it. She is a die-hard friend, mother, and wife, as well as a successful businesswoman. Her journey to becoming this person is by no means easy, but her struggle to get there is what makes her character real. No matter you might be going through, Brooke Davis will show you the light at the end of the tunnel.

Tami Taylor

For every girl in college who needs a voice of reason, Tami Taylor (Connie Britton) is here for you. On Friday Night Lights, Tami is not just the stereotypical coach’s wife; she’s a counselor, a principal, and a mother. She is another great example of a strong woman and she gives fantastic advice to every girl in Dillon, Texas who needs it. She will inspire you to go for whatever it is that you want in life and to never settle. You will see her transform girls’ lives and push them to create futures for themselves. Tami Taylor doesn’t bow down to anybody, but you can always count on her for support.

Leslie Knope

If there is any female character who is the definition of persistence, it is Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) on Parks and Recreation. This woman never gives up. She is so passionate about her work and her friends that she will stop at nothing to make everyone’s dreams come true. Leslie Knope actively encourages younger women to be smart and strong, which can be rare on a television show. This woman is a mentor for all college girls and teaches them to never give up on their goals.

If you’re a girl in college who is struggling to find yourself, let these women be your guides. They might be characters on television shows, but that doesn’t mean they can’t show you a thing or two.