If you’re the last of your friends to turn 21 years old, saying that you’re frustrated is likely an understatement. Since 21 is the legal age for the purchase and consumption of alcohol in the United States, it is definitely an age to look forward to for most people. This is especially true if you’re in college like me, and surrounded by drinking culture every weekend (and sometimes weekdays). If your friends like to go out to the bars, you’re probably going to feel left out. It’s not even the drinking necessarily that you’re missing out on. Getting plastered and kicked out of some pub after last call doesn’t appeal to me that much. Honestly I just want to be 21 so I can go on wine tours and order a mimosa at brunch. The toughest part in my opinion is feeling like you’re missing out on socialization and memories with your friends simply because you’re a few months younger than them. You get pretty sick of hearing “you had to be there” and “wish you could come out with us.” The FOMO is so real.

Are you really missing out on much? I guess it depends on how you look at it. If you miss anything particularly exciting I would hope your friends will fill you in. If not, well I suppose your life is drama free and that’s something to be proud of. Think about it though, after the age of 21 you have the rest of your life to go to the bar. Why rush? Instead of thinking about what you’re missing, focus on what you could be doing. Someone is always there for you, whether they’re down the street or a phone call away. Reach out to people. Call that friend you haven’t talked to in a year and find out what they’re up to. Be constructive while you can before it’s time to celebrate your 21^st.

The biggest point that I have tried to stress to myself is not to wish the time away. Waiting to turn 21 can be a long, painstaking process. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of that time. Step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Talk to people in your classes and make some new friends. There are always people who are not out, and most of them are actually not lame. Your time is what you make of it. You can stay home moping (not fun), you can stay home and enjoy that time, or find something else to do. The years fly by fast, don’t waste your time waiting for the next birthday, regardless of its significance.