20 Things I Learned in College

As my time in college comes to a close with graduation right around the corner I took a little time away from studying to reflect on these past 4 years.
College was one of the most stressful, exciting, and eye opening experiences I have ever been through. I learned more about myself than I could have ever imagined, and am so thankful for all the memories and friendships I have made along the way. To officially wrap up the past four years I wanted to give my look on 20 things college taught me!

1.You come first

That may sound selfish, but college is an extremely stressful time and it’s important to take time for yourself.

2. Friendships are not always forever

You will make friendships that at the time seem like they will last forever, but not everyone is going to be your bridesmaid one day. Cherish those who stick around on your bad days.

3. “Ring by spring” is not important

I will admit I was the typical girl who wanted to be engaged my senior year, and get that ring by spring. Looking back at it now, I am way too content with my independence and am glad that God is keeping my man on the back burner for now.

4. Mental health is a real thing 

College will be a truly trying time, in more ways than one. Make sure to take a bubble bath once in awhile, or go see a movie by yourself.

5. Caffeine will be your best friend 

You probably didn’t drink coffee until you got to college, and now you don’t know how people study without it.

6. Your mom is always right 

Although I hate to admit it at 22, my mom is still right about everything. Listen to her, and know that her advice is what’s best for you.

7. Quality over quantity

This phrase meant nothing to me before college, and now it means everything. In terms of food, friendships or even clothing quality is always the best option.

8. Grades don’t define you

Getting a 79% on that paper you stayed up all night working on can really push a person over the edge, and make them feel like a complete failure. I know I had my times where I really let a certain grade make me feel awful about myself. Try to be confident in who you are, and not focus on the number a grade book is showing.

9. All nighters are inevitable 

Why do you think most college restaurants are open 24/7?

10. Cheap wine goes a long way

You are not above that $4 bottle of Yellow Tail from Walmart. Cheap wine is good for both your sanity and bank account.

 

11. There’s nothing wrong with staying in 

The nights you spend with you best friends watching Netflix and eating Ben & Jerry’s are the best nights.

12. Target will never let you down

I swear, can anyone hate that store?

13. Boys are still boys 

Although they should have matured by now, they haven’t. Don’t be fooled by those who seem to have the ability to shower without a mom telling them, or even cleaning their own room. They’re not men just yet.

14. Class is actually important  

Just because the professor said attendance is optional doesn’t mean to only show up on exam days. It’s extremely helpful to be present in the classroom, and will benefit you in the long run. You’re only paying your first born to be there…

15. Being homesick is okay

College is a time you are tossed into a trial version of the “real world” and being on your own can be tough. Everyone can benefit from a weekend spent in their hometown, relaxing with their parents.

16. Pizza rolls don’t count as a balanced meal 

Even if do you eat them with a salad.

17. Change is okay

Things will be constantly changing, and this is the time to embrace change and learn to love it.

18. There’s no such thing as the “perfect” college experience 

Social media is so misleading. Don’t let the “candid” smiles, and perfectly posed group pictures make you feel like you aren’t doing college the right way.

19. Be confident in you

There’s only one of you, so why have the world miss out on that?

20. Lastly, enjoy every minute you have in college. It will be over before you know it…

xx Jamie