Lifestyle

9 Things You Don't Appreciate About College Until It's Over

by Gabrielle LaFrank
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In high school, countless people told you how everything you did was preparing you for college. Now that you're in college, everything you do is preparing you for the real world that awaits after you get your degree. Technically that theory isn't wrong, but college is much more than preparations for the future.

A big part of going to college is learning to live independently and discovering who you are right now. Instead of spending so much time looking ahead, concentrate a bit more on the present and what you have now, because you won't always have the luxuries that come with the college life. You'll be out in the real world before you know it, so don't miss the chance to appreciate and take advantage of these things before it's too late.

1. Homework And Studying

No one likes homework when they have it, but compared to the kinds of assignments you'll have for your future job, homework is pretty great. If you totally bomb or forget an assignment, it's not the end of the world. Homework is all about learning, whereas in a job you're already supposed to know what to do.

In college, homework and studying are also social activities. They're a good excuse to meet new people, get out of the house, and get help on an assignment that's troubling you. Being social and working from wherever isn't always an option you'll have in the future.

2. Professors Who Care

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Especially in a school with small class sizes, the right professor can make a world of difference for their students. They're available for academic help, personal advice, and some really great storytelling. Your future bosses may be cool, but they probably won't want to hear about your memories with your sorority sisters during rush week.

3. Wearing Whatever The Heck You Want

College is pretty much the only place where it's acceptable to show up in your pajamas. Better yet, you can wear your most comfy outfit twice in a row because the people in your Monday and Wednesday classes probably won't see you on Tuesday and Thursday. Trust me, take advantage of this while you still can.

4. Having Everything You Need Right On Campus

Campus stores can be more pricey than other places, but the proximity totally makes up for it. There's nothing quite like running downstairs real quick to get a snack at midnight. You won't realize how spoiled you are until the day you have to get in the car and drive to Target for toilet paper.

5. Solid Student Discounts

A little goes a long way when it comes to money, so take advantage of any savings you can get while you're still a student. Many schools offer discounted or even free passes for public transportation, so don't pass up on that opportunity, either. TBH, considering how much you're paying for school already, there should be way more free stuff.

6. Naps

Naps are a gift that you did not appreciate as a child, but you've been given a second chance. College is pretty much the last time you'll be able to have a say in your schedule and give yourself some free time, so use it wisely... and by that I mean take a nap. Your body and mind will thank you.

7. Free Gym Membership

Even though you have a say in your own class schedule, you're bound to be pretty busy throughout your college career. It can be hard to pencil in time for the gym, but I encourage you to try your hardest to do so. Establishing healthy habits now will help your health in the long run, and you won't have to pay for a gym membership until after you graduate.

8. Countless Campus Resources

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Most campuses have tons of free resources for students you definitely can't get outside of college. The health center usually offers counseling, doctor appointments, and free condoms and feminine hygiene products for anyone who needs them. Academic centers provide advising, tutoring, and any other school-related help you may need.

9. Having A Summer Break

Unless you plan on becoming a teacher, college is your last taste of summer break. Even though you'll likely end up working through the summer, take advantage of whatever time off you do have. Make memories while you can, because your college years won't last forever.