14 Ways College Changes Your Life

You remember that brat kid that came out of high school? How could four years turn you into a mature individual ready for the job market? Here's how:

1. So Many New Friendships

They may have their ups and downs, but these friendships are the ones you'll invite to your bachelor party, your wedding, and to your child's birth!

2. First Chance to REALLY Travel

Whether it is attending school out of state, or studying abroad, college gives you a chance to see the world and get out of your comfort zone!

3. Awesome Mentors and Guest Lecturers

In my college experience thus far, I have heard from Tony Blair, Shaquille O'Neal, Robert Gates, Bill Nye, Peyton Manning, and Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu.

4. New You

You can completely be whoever you want to be in college and no one will know the difference (expect your old high school classmates).

5. Discover Your History

Take a study abroad trip and figure out the roots of some family history, even if it is in a cemetery in Cuba! You'll never get to travel like this again!

6. Commit to a Cause

passionimpact.org

So many college students have high passions and choose to drop them to the side without pursuing them. Why not make them your priority? Don't let anyone tell you you cannot!

7. Volunteer!

You have been given so much, why not give a little back!? Chances are you need the volunteer hours for your organization or house anyways….

8. Internships

Okay, maybe they don't all end up like this one, but you can definitely make internships count!

9. You Start Dressing Up

Interviews, date parties, job fairs, meetings, even some classes, you have to dress up for EVERYTHING!

10. The Dating Scene Is Now REAL

How many of your friends are engaged or married? I feel like I'm the only one that isn't!

11. Did I Mention Study Abroad? (Cause I Meant To)

semesteratsea.org

Probably the most important part of college that too many people miss out on. Even if you think it is too expensive, it's not. You can make it happen! (This could be your view every single day on Semester at Sea)

12. A Minor

You don't have to just focus on your major. Expand your horizons and get a minor too!

13. Free Food

This doesn't even have to be explained. Just get it when you can every time you can.

14. Being I.N.D.E.P.E.N.D.E.N.T.

Mom and Dad probably aren't around for most of us. This gives us a chance to mature and grow our own wings and learn from our own "mistakes".