Some say people don't change, they just grow. In my opinion, people do change.

I've entered my first year of college which means it was the first year I left almost all of the people I've ever known behind. Me and my friends went separate ways to different colleges. I used to be one of those people who said people don't change, they just grow. However, I've witnessed people who went off to college that changed in many ways. College changed them. They turned into people I never knew they could be. The once called quiet girl in high school turned into a party girl who sleeps around now. The once known as the smart boy in high school let his fraternity take over most of his time which resulted in going to more parties and receiving lower grades.

Yes, you can be smart and still go out and party, but he partied so much it caused him to quit focusing on school work. Don't get me wrong, I am not arguing that those are bad changes and that people shouldn't be like them. I am only arguing that college can change people. Some of those who I am close with allowed college to change their ways. It's upsetting knowing you no longer share the same interests as some of those who were once your closest friends. I do wish them the best in life, but I miss the old them.

Sometimes change is for the better, but I've seen people in college reach their lowest points in life. Even though I'm only going on my second semester of college, I believe I know just how tough college can be. However, one should never let college become a bad time period in their life. Some say your college years are some of your best times in your life. "Enjoy it while you can," they say. Unfortunately, people are letting college change them negatively. Some positively though, thankfully.

If you're reading this and know that college is starting to change you in a negative way, help yourself. Surround yourself by those who strive for the great things in life; those who have a positive outlook on life. Make better changes, not worse. Make smart decisions and never allow yourself to do something you don't want to do. Don't let college change you for worse.