Written by: Kenzie

As you may know, despite working currently as a pastry chef, I did graduate from Texas A&M University with a degree in marketing back in December of 2016 (a semester early, WHAT). College is a very different experience for everyone that attends, in my opinion. Usually, this is the first time you’re actually living life away from your parents or some sort of parental figure and during this time, you can learn a lot about yourself and others and the world at large.

So, allow me to share 5 things I learned in college. And no, this isn’t going to be things like "cognitive choice models” and “the criteria to create a good market segment”. These are more overarching, real world things. At least, I hope so.

1. College isn’t for everyone.

   This is something I’ve heard before and I’m sure you have too. But it is very, very true. I think society today places too much pressure on kids to go to college. College can be very beneficial to some people, but to others, it just isn’t. And that’s okay! I think I’m somewhere in the middle. I did learn things about marketing which would be helpful if I ever get my own business like I want, and I learned things about myself, but I also sometimes feel like I would have been fine without it. My advice? Try college out (if you can afford it), but also don’t feel bad if it just isn’t your thing. Have the courage to really evaluate what you want in life and figure out if college is your thing or not.

2. It’s okay to be the 2%.

   At A&M, there is a very small group of students (2%, obviously) called, you guessed it, The 2 Percenters. These students weren’t as immersed into the student culture of football games, yells, and student organizations as everyone else. I was one of these people. Some people kind of had words when I told them I’d never been to a football game - still haven’t - but overall, I’m glad I was a 2 Percenter. I don’t like football, I don’t like community yelling, and I don’t like the somewhat cult-ish atmosphere that organizations and even just campus activities often took on. So, I learned that you don’t have to act like everyone else and you don’t have to like what everyone else likes. That being said, school pride is still a thing and I am still proud to say that I graduated from A&M.

3. It is hard to get involved, but probably worth it.

   I am not an outgoing person. This means that I don’t have many friends which I am okay with. However, I do have many interests and enjoy trying new things, just not necessarily the social aspect of it. BUT, some activities were actually cool. There was one in particular, Howdy Farm, that I really enjoyed and the people were cool too. I also was part of a cupcake club that wasn’t so hot. My point is, try new things! The worst that could happen is it’s not fun and you quit but the best that could happen is you make new friends and feel a sense of community and learn something new or get a new hobby!

4. Explore the area you’re in.

Whether that’s your school and campus or the town, get out there! Scope out the famous landmarks and find the best local spots. My favorite was a coffee shop in the next town over, Harvest. I basically spent my entire last semester there and the short drive was totally worth it.

5. Personalize your space.

Your dorm, room, apartment, or even desk at the library is your space. Make it your’s with things you like. I always feel more productive when I have everything I need at arm’s length or when I’m in an aesthetically pleasing place. Maybe that’s just me. Cute things make me feel good and feeling good is good, especially in college when things can become overwhelming quickly.

Long story short, college is what you make it! Be your own person and don’t give up your interests or personality in order to fit in. Explore your school and town and find what makes you happy. That goes for the whole world too. Just find what makes you happy!

What things did you learn in college?