Most college students seem ready to fast forward straight into what I like to call the "real world." They can't wait to have their diploma, be done with school, begin their career, and even start a family of their own.
This summer, I've had the amazing opportunity to intern for a phenomenal company that I could really see myself working for after I get my undergrad. I've met the greatest people and have learned so much about my field and the industry because of their abundance of knowledge.
I wouldn't take back the time I've spent as a summer intern for anything because I have truly enjoyed every second if it; however, the same goes for college. I wouldn't rush this once in a lifetime experience for the world. Here are just a few things you'll find yourself missing once you're in the real world:
Time with friends.
Don't take your time with friends for granted. While working the typical 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. job, it's almost impossible to be able to fit your friends into your schedule. You're exhausted! Make an effort to spend quality time with your best friends in college while you can, because next thing you know, y'all are parting ways and moving to different cities.
Greek events.
Did you know there are no take-a-dates or formals in the real world!? As foreign of a concept that is, it's true. Go to these while you still can! There will be a day when the company outing is the closest thing you'll have to a mixer. Don't miss these events, even when you're a second semester senior and you think they're lame. You'll miss them one day.
Customized schedule.
If you're like me, you have planned your class schedule to allow perfect time to sleep in, take mid-day naps, and even not have class on Fridays. This is ridiculously rare in the real world. Most jobs will have you start at least by 9 a.m., if not before, which is basically the crack of dawn in college. Realize that you have it made when you're just rolling out of bed at noon on a Wednesday.
The experience.
There's nothing quite like the college experience. The excitement of heading back to school after a long summer away, the unpredictability and adventure around every corner, and the last few years of having a small amount of responsibility. I could go on and on about all the great aspects of college because these are truly the best four years of your life. In the real world, you'll never be able to recreate this indescribable experience.
So when you catch yourself wishing college would go by quickly, remember that the real world will always be there, but your college experience won't.
