Quae fiant ex hoc cognosces: Your source for what's happening, since 1909

Menu
  • Home
  • My Story Monday
  • News
  • Opinions
  • Features
  • Sports
  • Arts and Culture
  • Staff
Menu

5 Reasons Why I’m Not The “Typical College Student” (And That’s Okay)

Posted on October 4, 2015 by thepurpleandwhite_i15736

by Emily Hussey

opinions editor

Like any group of people, college students have a stereotype. They are perceived as Netflix-binging alcoholics living in a world saturated with hook-up culture and all-nighters. When I arrived at college, I tried (and failed) to embrace the stereotypes because I thought it was what I was “supposed” to do. I have since learned that trying to pigeonhole oneself into a stereotype is not a healthy or authentic way to live. Although I am a college student, the stereotypes of a college student do not accurately describe me, and that’s okay. Here are five reasons why.

I do not really watch Netflix in college. I have schoolwork, a sorority, friends, and various campus activities. I feel vastly unproductive and uncomfortable if I’m watching Netflix instead of fulfilling an obligation. I don’t mind binge-watching Netflix on school breaks, but during the school year, I don’t really like it.

I actually get sleep. My roommate and I had 8:00 classes my freshman year, so we would turn out the light around 11:00. Sometimes, if we were feeling particularly ambitious, it would be 10:30. We both valued our sleep because we knew that we needed it to function properly.
That being said, I have never pulled an all-nighter. It is counterproductive to me. I recognize the importance of a good night’s sleep; I prioritize it. I am not saying I don’t procrastinate, but I do always make sure to work on a paper or study for a test far enough in advance so that I don’t have to stay up too late the night before.

I go to every class (unless I am really sick or have a valid reason not to.) My parents graciously pay for my college, and I am very aware that every class I attend costs money. The main reason I go to college is to further my education and ensure a successful future post-graduation. It seems pointless to me to skip class just because I “can” without “getting in trouble” (although most of my professors do take attendance – Millsaps for you.)
I try to look at least somewhat presentable for class. It makes my day tremendously better. I hate rolling out of bed five minutes before class starts. I relish in the routine of getting ready at a gradual pace while sipping my coffee as I mentally prepare for the day.

I am not in any way condemning the typical college kid stereotype, but there is no point in pretending it fits me just because I am, in fact, a college kid. Stereotypes exist for a reason – there are certainly people out there who fit at least one of the stereotypes I mentioned, and if that works for them, great. I encourage everyone, especially college students, to embrace who they truly are. It is much more important to do what makes you individually happy than worrying about fitting a stereotype.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Facebook
Twitter
Instagram

P&W Poll

If you or someone you know has been exposed to domestic violence (violence committed by a spouse or intimate partner) during the pandemic, the Mississippi Center for Investigative Reporting (MCIR)'s student journalists from Millsaps would like to talk to you. The interview will be completely and strictly confidential. 

Contact Anne Marie Cunningham, MCIR's fellow-in-residence, at amclissf@gmail.com for more information. 

Email

Archives

Categories

  • Arts & Culture
  • Editorial
  • Features
  • Friday + Saturday
  • My Story Monday
  • News
  • Opinions
  • Sports
  • Uncategorized
  • Word Nerd
© 2021 | Powered by Minimalist Blog WordPress Theme