I'm about to start my third semester of college, and I still don't quite feel like an adult, yet it's beginning to set in. College is definitely a blast, but there are pros and cons to being on your own.

Here are a few things I've come to realize.

PROS:

1. Your parents aren't there to nag you. You're free to make your own decisions!

2. You learn how to support yourself, separate what you want from what you need, balance a budget, etc.

3. You have the opportunity to spread your wings and explore new learning opportunities, meet new people, and discover new places.

4. You learn how to deal with other people that may not share the same beliefs, values, and attitudes that you possess. OR, on the other hand, you can put yourself in places where you do fit in. It's up to you!

5. You figure out how best to manage your time in order to succeed or fail.

6. You can begin reaching old goals and setting new ones.

CONS:

1. Your parents aren't there to nag you. If you need to make something happen, it's on you.

2. You have to make your own money, and sadly, life is pretty expensive. As is time. It's hard not having parents around to buy your food, prepare your meals, help with school and transportation and living expenses.

3. If you haven't learned how to prioritize and say no, it's easy to let a social life control you.

4. You don't automatically fit in a certain group anymore. There're new people and new interests that may not match up with yours.

While it is certainly a learning experience, the first few years after moving out are a critical time in all of our lives, our chance to sink or swim in the real world. Your ability to succeed is not decided by anyone but yourself. While we are all capable of amazing things, don't forget to appreciate all the things your parents, teachers, friends, etc. have done for you, and be aware of just how much of a sacrifice it can be! Gratitude allows you to better understand the way adulting works, and from there you can begin to clearly see the way you should organize your life.