So, I'm curious. What does "experimenting" mean to you? I’m going to cover a rather wide range of sentiments about college “experimentation.” This word has gotteb a bad rep and I want us to re-frame this. Of course, all of the movies and shows that perpetuate the idea that college is only for sexual promiscuity, campus streaking, booze overload, and parties are not particularly helpful, but they do perhaps over-dramatize some major truths of college life.

See?! College isn't all fun and games...umm...

Experiment: A test under controlled conditions that is made to demonstrate a known truth, to examine the validity of a hypothesis, or to determine the efficacy of something previously untried. The process of conducting such a test; experimentation. (dictionary.com)

1.) Sexual experimentation. Some people have it in college. Great. Some people don’t. Also great. To be rather blunt, which is one of my favorite things to do, sex is personal. Each and every individual gets to choose who they want to have sex with, if they have sex at all, for that matter. Mutual consent is necessary, as well as proper precautions and preferably a sober state of being. But…in the college atmosphere, sex happens, and not always in a planned out manner. You don’t need to apologize or talk about it unless you want to. Your sexual identity is for you and only you to define. Don't let your peers, parents, or anyone convince you that a part of your identity isn't legitimate just because you're going through an "experimental" stage in life. No matter what gender you're choosing to engage with in various ways, do so with intent and self-awareness. You are at a time in your life where you have more freedom than you most likely ever will. Be safe, know what you're comfortable with, always have/give verbal consent, and have fun kids!

Better safe than sorry, am I right?

2.) Spiritual experimentation. This is a thing. Some are more aware of it than others, and that is totally okay! For most people, college is the first time actual independence and separation from parents or a guardian of some type really happens. HOW EXCITING. Maybe that church you were dragged to every Sunday wasn’t really the church for you. Try out some new services on campus or outside of campus. Find a fit! Find a community that supports and encourages you and your belief system. Try out a mission trip or service project. Maybe you don’t want to go to church anymore. That’s okay, too! You don't have to attend a formal service weekly to reach out on campus or within a community and do something good for others. No one is here to make you put on your Sunday best. Experiment with your faith. Tailor it until it fits comfortably and naturally.

Every time I feel the spirit...

3.) Major(degree) experimentation.

“Every college undergraduate will change their major at least twice.”

I don’t know about you, but this message really freaked me out going into college. I had a pretty clear idea of what I wanted to do. Some people do, and some people just have a vague idea. Some people have NO FREAKING CLUE. Don't you fret, my little lemon drop. College is designed to give you options and choices. Hence, the “exploratory” major was included in most undergraduate tracks.

Explore: to look into closely; examine; scrutinize; to traverse over something for the purpose of discovery

Notice how “explore” and “experiment” share some common ground? Eh? Ehhh?

Change your major. Chance it once, 5 times, 12 times, or don’t change it, at all. Whatever you do, don’t be scared. It’s all good I promise.

Chris understands.

4.) Roommate experimentation. I know what you’re thinking you dog. No, I am definitely not about to go there. But if you do, refer to point #1 and be smart. Anyway…roommates. What an adventure it can be to find your perfect roommate. It's a similar process to that of filling out an online dating questionnaire. Are you a night person? Do you listen to loud music while studying? Do you wait to do laundry until there is no other option but to wear your bathing suit to class? If you go the random wild-card route, I wish you luck! Sometimes it ends up being a match made in heaven. Sometimes even deliberate choices don’t work out. Be yourself, have clear boundaries and expectations, communicate verbally and kindly, and do not be afraid to switch it up. Nothing is worse than coming to your personal living space after a long day of classes to an uncomfortable and awkward roommate situation. Know what you need and what makes you happy, and find someone who gels with all that! This goes for your friendships outside of classes as well!

When your roommates watch the Bachelor season finale...

5.) Style experimentation. Remember those boot-cut jeans from high school that miraculously still fit? Yeah I don’t remember them either. However, just because clothes still fit from high school doesn’t mean you can’t change it up a bit! Try out a new style. Wing that eyeliner like it’s never been winged before. Always buy the scarf if it’s an option. Try that sassy lipstick shade that your mother would probably make a passive aggressive remark about at home. Do whatever the heck you want! Hey fellas, if you want to wear heels I am NOT going to stop you. And ladies, if you find a style that is a bit on the unconventional side but you feel comfortable in, just do it. Menswear aren't just for men and vice versa. This is an environment that fosters new and exciting things of all flavors. Just please stay clothed. Oh, and copious amounts of blue eye-shadow will never be met with my support. Not even sorry.

I've been waiting for Julie Andrews to come into my life and sprinkle fairy dust on my face, as well...just start with the lipstick and proper eyebrow-plucking, deal?