What College Taught Me

Hi, I’m Barbara Parsons, a graduating senior. Whether you’re graduating or not, we can all reflect on the highs and lows of college and all the valuable lessons learned and experiences we’ve had. Honestly, graduating is bittersweet, but it’s something I’m personally excited for. College has given me so much wisdom and I’m incredibly grateful for the people I’ve met, the lessons learned, and the memories made. Here are some things I learned the last few years:

1. Everyone has a story. It’s up to you if you want to listen or not.
2. You’re going to have to deal with people in groups that you may not see eye to eye with… at all. (AKA group projects, e-boards, roommates). You need to learn to put feelings aside, do what is best to get the job done, and be respectful and not a jerk.
3. Ordering Chinese food can easily become a habit.
4. Some of the best friendships can evolve at the most random times. Make those memories count.
5. You either learn how to successfully cure your hangovers or that there is no possible way to fight them. Either way they suck.
6. Alone time is important. So is being sociable, but you need alone time to stay sane.
7. You learn what your strengths and weakness are in terms of education. Maybe being a biology major wasn’t right for you, and you’d rather embrace your passion of theatre instead. Do what you love and challenge yourself to be better.
8. You learn what type of liquor you can never be friends with. For me, tequila and whiskey are a no go. Bad times…
9. You learn that group chats are both great and really, really are annoying from all the notifications.
10. Some friends drift apart, and that’s okay.
11. Sometimes staying in and watching a movie alone is better than going out.
12. Some friends turn out as toxic relationships and it’s okay to end them. Bye Felicia, see ya never.
13. You really discover how truly addicting Netflix can be and it is possible to finish an entire series within one week or less.
14. The hook-up culture isn’t what it’s hyped up to be, the college “dating” scene isn’t that easy to master, and you need to be comfortable with who you are, what you want and really value that before anything. But you shouldn’t shame someone who takes on the college dating scene differently than you.
15. It’s okay to ask for help and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Life can feel like your juggling a thousand things at once, so if you need help, ask.
16. SpongeBob quotes can easily be used in any situation or context.
17. Romantic relationships may not work out the way you had hoped. And that’s okay.
18. You can survive off of Easy Mac and Ramen during a snow storm. And your left over Chinese food from four days ago.
19.  It’s easy to be a decent person. But you should strive to be a good person. Surround yourself with good people who make you feel good about yourself and do the same to others.
20. Lastly, I’ve learned that college isn’t “the end.” This is not “our prime,” and we are not “old” because we’re 21/22 and graduating. This isn’t the last time we’ll see our best friends and be reckless. We came here to prepare to make our dreams happen, and I refuse to believe that this is the best time of our lives; because the best is yet to come. Be grateful for all the memories made, people you’ve met, and lessons you’ve learned. Be excited for your future even though starting a new chapter in your life can seem scary.

This is my last HC article ever! It’s been a pleasure writing articles and being a part of the team the last two years. Best wishes to everyone graduating!!

HC XOXO,

Babs.