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The big 2-1 is the birthday to end all birthdays. It celebrates your *real* transition into adulthood (because your 18th birthday was about as liberating as a restricted driver’s license) with a night of partying like a reckless teenager. What’s not to love? College students await this special day with high hopes and a bottle opener in hand. If you’re guilty of any of the following signs, then your 21st must be just around the corner. If so, happy early birthday, collegiette! Party hard and stay safe!

 

1. You’ve brushed up on bar etiquette and know not to do this…

2. You are down for any crazy party plans your friends have in mind.

3. You’ve planned out how you will order your first drink (like a lady, of course).

4. And you’ve been trying to act cool when you drink, but instead you look like

5. You’ve been counting down the days until your birthday (and it feels like forever).

6. You’ve been taking out your frustration about your birthday feeling far away on your 21+ friends.

7. You can’t wait to buy your own alcohol instead of relying on friends to give it to you.

8. But you are also sad when you realize it’s the last birthday that matters…

9. …which makes you super pumped when your best friend says she can attend (and she is equally excited to see you make a fool of yourself).

10. You’ve assigned a circle of trusted friends to make sure you stay safe and don’t do stupid stuff…

11. …but you’re fully prepared to do something (or a few things) that’s embarrassing.

12. You’re also prepared to shrug it off the next day, because you only turn 21 once.

13. You’ve picked out a fabulous birthday outfit that photographs well from every angle.

14. You find a way to talk about your birthday in every conversation.


15. You’ve invested in a bright new lipstick for your 21 kisses.


16. You’ve given your friends permission to end the night early if you act like:

17. You’ve practiced pronouncing names like Tanqueray.

18. You’ve cleared your schedule the day after your birthday because you know it will be like

19. You’ve agreed to complete a “21 Dares” list.

20. Your friends have compiled a shopping list that includes a birthday sash, a tutu, a viking hat.

21. When anyone says the words “21” or “birthday,” you act like

 

Connie is a professional and creative writing major at Carnegie Mellon University. She is currently obsessed with pole fitness, pumpkin bread, and '80s fashion.