All throughout high school, I had teachers act strictly because they wanted to "train us for college". They made essays longer, time to do homework shorter, and basically just made life way more difficult than it needed to be. Being an honors student and having a family who was super hard on me about academics and work ethic, I thought I was fully prepared for what college had to bring. Turns out I was very wrong about this. Yes, it did help with studying and balancing classes, a job, and sorority. But there are a handful of things life didn't prepare me for my time in college. Hopefully, I am not alone. Here are just a few things:
1. My First Hangover
My mom always used to warn me about drinking too much. I thought I was invincible my freshman year and drank like any other fraternity guy. However, I woke up one morning with my head swirling, my mouth dry as sand, and my stomach doing flips. I felt sick the entire day, and I have never seen my mom have so much enjoyment through my pain in my life.
2. 500 Person Lecture Halls
I quite honestly thought raising my hand in front of 40 kids was nerve-wracking and then I got called on in a classroom of over 500 kids. I remember going completely numb and praying I got the answer correct. I don't think I did.
3. Learning Greek letters
For the longest time, I referred to organizations with names such as "Horseshoe O-thing". It took me a while to get the hang of it.
4. Asking someone permission to bring a guy home. Or to do anything really.
My freshman year was my first year living with a roommate. I was never used to sharing my space. I wasn't accustomed to asking permission to turn the lights on at certain hours, leaving laundry out, or having someone over. I remember my hands sweating the first time I asked my roommate to leave for a guy.
5. Doing The "Walk-of-Shame"
I actually thought the whole concept of the walk-of-shame was entirely Hollywood based. I had seen it in movies and shows but never thought about it actually occurring, until I was walking back to my apartment the next morning with last night's makeup on and my bra in my purse.
6. Weekday Sleepovers
When I had my first-weekday sleepover, I felt so cool about having my friends over. At first, I was hesitant but who doesn't love a good wine night Wednesday?
7. Using two cards to make a $5 purchase.
Being in college means being broke. My parents honestly enjoy watching me struggle a bit because then they know I am getting the whole experience. I used to be embarrassed about being so cheap, but I now embrace it.
8. Not having to ask permission about going out.
Personally, I live 7 hours from home. The first weekend I went out in college, I lived in fear. I was constantly thinking about telling my parents or worrying about curfews. Now, I don't think to tell anyone when I go out when I am home. Oops.
9. Not having to sneak going to a concert from my dad.
Growing up, my dad didn't like me going to small venue concerts. Now, my life is pretty much going to concerts. I think he was a little upset when he found out I was going to them, but I think it is all good now. As I said, I am pretty much always going to concerts. They are my safe spot.
10. Having an amazingly large and diverse support system
Don't get me wrong, my friends in high school were amazing. But my friends in college are also amazing. They are all so unique, talented, and loving.
