You arrive on campus. You’re a freshman and you’re ready to begin life on your own, or so you thought. You find yourself struggling with a mix of excitement and anxiety. You just left the only life you’ve ever known. All of your friends and family may seem so distant or, in reality, are actually hundreds of miles away. Who will you turn to?
Lauren and her best friend Andrea at Andrea’s high school graduation party
Maybe you meet a girl who lives down the hall with similar interests. Maybe she even knows where to find the best parties, with the cutest guys. Before you know it you’re inseparable, spending every Wednesday night at Red Brick karaoking your little freshmen hearts out.
Then you’re sharing all of your secrets. And eating every gross meal together in the dining hall. Things are starting to go your way, you finally have a best friend, someone to turn to and most importantly someone to share experiences with.
But, BEWARE. The best friend that you thought would be there for you no matter what might not be forever-friend material.
It’s okay though, it’s not the end of the world.
As you mature and grow as a person, you’ll come to a point where you realize the most convenient friend is not always the best friend.
She may still be stuck in the same habits of hooking up and partying, but you don’t have to be. Try Cru. Try club sports. Write for a publication.
Lauren and her friend Haley at their first Bobcat football game
Keep in mind it’s okay to change, that’s what college is all about — finding yourself. It’s also okay to remain friends with people that have different goals, though you might find it difficult to be as close as you once were.
Don’t be afraid to befriend all types of people. These experiences will help show you the type of friend (and person!) you want to be. Learn to accept change. Be true to yourself. Just because your friends aren’t ready to change doesn’t mean that you can’t.