5 Things Your College Friends Teach You

Some of the most influential people in my life would fall into the category of “college friends.” Believe me when I say that this summer has been especially hard when it comes to missing these amazing people and it has left me reflecting on just how much they have taught me.

We’re all in this together.

*Insert the “High School Musical” anthem here—I’m sorry that it will be stuck in your head for a few weeks now* As cliché as it may sound, your college friends teach you that this rollercoaster of emotions, decisions, homework, life choices and adventures is a ride that is taken together. Each of us is in the same boat, and even if we feel like we are alone—we are often reminded by these friends, that they are standing right in the trenches with us.

It’s okay to take care of yourself.

In the fast paced life college students live, we often find that many things come before the care of our own needs. All of the late nights studying, doing homework, being there for a friend, relationship struggles, dealing with family issues and whatnot, truly add up. College friends remind us to press the pause button on all of the other aspects of our lives, and to take time for ourselves—they make it okay for us to be a little selfish.

Distance is no problem.

The breaks that separate us by many miles have no bearing on the quality of friendship you have with them. If anything, distance proves to you just how grateful you are to have these friends in your life.

Unconditional love.

Through your college years you may make mistakes, do things you wish you wouldn’t done or heck you may just fall flat on your face. What is important to realize is that, the true friends you make in college accept you for those flaws or shortcomings, and love you even if you mess everything up. These friends pick up the pieces.

The definition of a second family.

College students often spend more time with their friends than their actual family, due to being a student for the vast majority of the year. You find the sisters and brothers you never (or wished) you’d had, the “mom figure” of your friend group and maybe even a crazy uncle in the mix there too. These friends embrace you with open arms, you find yourself comfortable around them—no matter the situation and care about your well-being just as much, as your biological family—which is irreplaceable.

I’m not sure where I’d be if I wasn’t surrounded by such amazing people, who make my life even more meaningful & for that, I am grateful.