It's finally November--my favorite month--which means Thanksgiving, pumpkin pie, sweater weather and of course, Black Friday. Some people love it, some people hate it. You have to be a little crazy to wake up before you would normally even wake up for class to rummage through piles of discounted clothing with hundreds of other people. I find it to be a fun tradition that I look forward to and thoroughly enjoy, and being at college away from home makes me even more excited for this day. My first Black Friday, I went to Urban Outfitters at 4:30 am and waited in an hour long line to purchase approximately 3 items--but it was an experience I will never forget. Here is how Black Friday usually plays out:

1. Wake up to an obnoxiously loud alarm when it's still dark outside.

You're extremely confused why you're up before 10.

2. Realize you're about to go Black Friday shopping.

You suddenly get a burst of energy because this day comes close to Christmas and your birthday.

3. Try not to fall asleep while driving to the mall.

This drive can be a dangerous one.

4. Search for a spot in the incredibly packed parking lot.

Parking by your favorite department store just isn't an option, and you might have to park near Sears.

5. Walk through the front doors of the mall and face a massive crowd.

You remember that Black Friday is in fact not a private shopping event just for you.

6. Race to the nearest Starbucks or Dunkin Donut to energize yourself for all of the shopping you're about to do.

This day requires an obscene amount of caffeine.

7. Time to run to your favorite stores and search for deals.

(The only time you ever run this early in the morning.)

8. Fight for a fitting room with piles of clothing in your arms.

The people in front of you have 2-6 items while you have 12, shouldn't you be allowed in first?

9. Proceed to wait in Disney World long lines to buy the items you decide on.

You'd think there would be a more efficient process for days like today, but no.

10. Get hit with exhaustion when your lack of sleep catches up to you.

The mall floor is looking extra comfortable today.

11. Go home with your purchases, feeling accomplished but ready to pass out.

You may be worn out, but you got a $45 sweater for $9 and that's all that matters.