So as I'm starting my 4th semester here at Ball State I got to thinking about some of the things college has taught me outside of actual classes. Some life skills if you will.

1. I learned how to walk in the rain without an umbrella because the wind here is crazy and it'll break your umbrella anyway. I also learned that if I'm done with classes I have no reason to not go puddle jumping and end up soaked by the time i get back to my room. I may be 20 years old but I still love puddle jumping.

2. It's definitely okay to say no to whatever you don't want to do. Say no to what you don't want to do whether that be party, commit to something that seems sketchy, to an act that someone suggests. Say no. You are in charge of your life and what happens and no has to be apart of that sometimes.

3. Try something new constantly. We keep getting told this by what seems like everyone. Yes college is a place to try new things but how many of us actually do? Take the chance and jump on new experiences.

4. Follow your dreams. Some of us get told our majors are pointless and won't get us anywhere in life (art majors typically, education majors, etc.) but honestly some of the industries that welcome these people are growing. If your calling is art then by all means try to do what you love. I met many people last semester doing what others said they should do and then they switched over and are so happy they did because they feel at home within their major.

5. It's hard to do but eating healthy. PFW did not teach me how to do this on our campus. We have some pretty good food but healthy options are pretty slim pickings, especially when you don't like salads (aka rabbit food). I am to the point that I'll catch myself reaching for candy but then I put it back and go grab fruit. For snacks I grab peanut butter and pretzels or hummus and pretzels. Some stuff we can't avoid. I love chicken but the grilled chicken is so dry so I still get fried chicken tenders. It's so possible to find healthy alternatives with a meal plan.

6. Stuff happens. That's really something any place could teach a college student but seriously stuff happens. Roommate conflicts happen. Mental breakdowns happen. Getting a puppy happens. College has taught me that stuff happens, both good and bad, but it's at least at a slower pace for me because it's not usually financial (except here at the beginning of a semester).

7. Pinterest can be a good friend to anyone. I use it all the time for ideas of what to write about or things I can crochet. I use it for bulletin board ideas as do many RA's and APM's. It's a great source but sometimes leads you nowhere if you need a direct link to something.