Oh college, what a time in life to experience new things. Not just academically, but about yourself as well. I remember when I first started college I could not wait to be living on my own without my parents, taking classes that actually interested me and being able to go out and socialize and meet a whole new sea of people. I wanted to dive head first into the endless array of opportunities that college had to offer me, such as joining clubs, a sorority, and even studying abroad. I was so excited to start this new chapter in my life to see what I like and how I develop as a person.

Going into college I had a few thoughts that ran through my head: am I going to be part of the lucky few that gain the freshman 15, will I fit in with the people at my new school, will I find my future husband and will I figure out what I want to study? Here, I will break these thoughts into four parts: Health and fitness, social life, dating and career and compare these thoughts I had from freshman year to now, going into my senior year.

Freshman year thoughts on:

1. Health and Fitness

Freshman 15. Period. I had heard about this daunting phrase and was determined not to go up three pant sizes.

2. Social Life

“Oh em gee! I want to fit in with the cool kids,” “I want to meet older guys,” “take my first beer bong like a pro!” Yes, these things did come to my mind. I wanted to prove myself that I was a young and fun girl who knew how to party.

3. Dating

I wanted to date guys and figure out how I work with someone; what I like and don’t like or want and don’t want in a relationship. I always heard stories about people meeting their husband or wife at college; maybe I would be one of those people who did.

4. Career

Going into college I had no freaking clue what I wanted to do. I liked way too many things to choose only one path. “What do I want to study?” “What kind of job can I get with the major I choose?”

Senior year thoughts on:

1. Health and Fitness

Gym? It’s a love-hate relationship now. With having a hectic junior year with internships and difficult classes, to now taking filler classes because you’ve fulfilled all of your required class, it’s hard to not want to just plop on the couch with some Netflix.

2. Social Life

Did someone say Netflix and wine? By now I’ve made my friends and partied myself out every weekend for the last three years. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll make some appearances here and there at some house parties or go out to the bars, but you’ll most likely find me in the comfort of my own apartment watching “Orange is the New Black.”

3. Dating

Single AF. I realized that I could not, and most likely would not date anyone from my school. I realized that I would much rather be single and focus on myself and my academics before I delve into a committed relationship. Also, I like the idea of meeting a complete stranger and hitting it off, than meeting someone I’ve crossed paths with before, but that’s just me.

4. Career

Yup, still have no idea what I want to do. I have chosen a major, but have no idea what I want to do with my degree. But hey, at least I have a degree right? I can figure the rest out later.