This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Iowa chapter.

1. Stand By Me

“Alright, alright . . . Mickey’s a mouse, Donald’s a duck and Pluto’s a dog. What’s Goofy?”

From moments of hilarity and heart wrenching realities, to pie eating contests and dodging trains, we learned that life is tough and people will disappoint you. But, in the midst of it all, friends—or the ones that we hold the closest—will always be there for us when we want to go looking for a dead body. Or when we need to remove a leech . . . or 10.

2. Pretty In Pink

“Blane? Oh! That’s a major appliance, that’s not a name!”

Okay, Andie should have ended up with Duckie and we all know it. Nevertheless, we still learned that we are not defined by which side of the tracks we live on, nor the clothes we wear. Plus, it’s hard to believe in those who don’t believe in us, but continue to be the gem that you know you are. Even if that means taking on the rich kids . . . and unconventional footwear.

3. Footloose

“A time to laugh . . . and a time to weep. A time to mourn . . . and there is a time to dance.”

From the opening credits to the prom at the end, this movie kept us moving and grooving for almost two hours. Yet, somewhere between all of the toe-tapping, we saw the benefits of fighting for a cause and that maybe, just maybe, authority isn’t always right. There are tragedies and a time for rules, but “kids” aren’t hooligans . . . we just want to live.

4. Ghostbusters

“Who ya gonna call?”

Besides giving us the best theme song in history, this goofy, slime-filled movie taught us several lessons. First, never discredit the underdog . . . they just might end up saving the entire city of New York. Also, it’s cool to be smart, so don’t dumb it down for those who can’t appreciate your brilliance. Finally, and most importantly, DON’T CROSS THE STREAMS!

5. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

“Bueller? . . . Bueller? . . . Bueller?”

Talk about calling in sick! Besides giving us the total envies of their genius plan and cover story, this film gave us new direction for our own lives. For instance, as long as we are confident in ourselves, we can spend a much deserved day-off anyway we want. We need to also be in control of our own story, never letting fear put us on the bench. So, let’s make the most of everyday and dance like everyone is watching!

6. Some Kind Of Wonderful

“You look good wearing my future.”

The pinnacle of cinematic love triangles, this 80s classic confronted us with some important realities. One being that the kids in detention may be far better people than those with the cool cars. Or that we are just as good as anyone else, but we shouldn’t use people to prove it. And the future is ours to shape, even as “mere young folk.” Finally, we should prefer to be alone for the right reasons, than with someone for the wrong ones.

7. Back To The Future

“If my calculations are correct, when this baby hits 88 miles per hour . . . you’re going to see some serious sh*t.”

A movie about time travel that became timeless, this film was all sorts of fun from beginning to end. Spanning 30 years, we learned how to balance living in the present and looking to the future. Plus, everyone was once an awkward teenager . . . yes, even your parents. So take it easy on yourself. And nothing is set in stone, for we all have the ability to change our “density” . . . perhaps to one where we don’t need roads.

8. Caddyshack

“Cinderella story. Outta nowhere. A former greenskeeper, now about to become the Masters champion. It looks like a mirac . . . it’s in the hole! It’s in the hole! It’s in the hole!”

Not a golfer? Who cares! This 80s goofball is a hilarious joy for everyone. Chock-full of one-liners and comedic geniuses, we can all learn a thing or two about life between the laughter. First, money cannot buy happiness . . . no matter how cool of a golf bag you have. And never take yourself too seriously, for we aren’t getting out of this alive. Lastly, and most crucial, pools should not sell Baby Ruths . . . trust me.

9. Adventures In Babysitting

“Nobody leaves this place without singing the blues.”

Although not given the hype it deserves, this film took “Could it get any worse?” and made a hilarious and heartfelt classic. We discovered that everything will work out in the end, but maybe in the most unexpected way. Also, your first love isn’t always your true love, but don’t give up hope . . . or run away from home unless you have money for the inevitable cab back. And remember . . . “Don’t f*ck with the babysitter!”

10. The Breakfast Club

“Does Barry Manilow know that you raid his wardrobe?”

Finally, THE iconic 80s film and my personal favorite. With so many lessons packed into a limited amount of time, let’s stick to the most important. First, show Dick some respect. Also, be sure to always describe the ruckus. And who knows what Monday will bring, but remember “. . . each one of us is a brain . . . and an athlete . . . and a basket case . . . a princess . . . and a criminal.” Does that answer your question?

Photos: Cover, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20

What We Learned From 80’s Movies