Although nearly 20 years old, I have to confess the immense love I have for Disney’s latest princess movie, Frozen. I may or may not have the entire soundtrack downloaded onto my iPod (okay… I do) and I may or may not be counting down the days until it’s finally released on DVD (March 18th incase you were wondering)! As I sat in the movie theatre surrounded by hoards of eight-year-old girls completely mesmerized by the singing and the snow, I realized that there are so many life lessons that can be learned and applied to college life.
1. Don’t Bottle Things Up, Sometimes You Just Have To “Let It Go”
Welp, couldn’t help myself with that one, but honestly, we all know that our college years can be an extremely stressful time. Exams, projects, countless hours spent studying at Strozier- it’s enough to make anyone explode. So maybe you didn’t do as well on a test as you had hoped or maybe you’ve had a disagreement with your roommate; much like Elsa, sometimes we all need that liberating moment of letting things go. Although I wish I could run away and establish an entire ice palace with a flick of my wrists in times of distress, I’m (unfortunately) not a full time student/part time ice princess. Maybe all you need is a pretty dress and a sense of empowerment, I mean that seemed to work for Elsa, but if you’re more low-key, try going for a run or singing some Beyoncé to let loose and remind you of your true queen potential.
2. Be Cautious Of That Guy Who Seems Too Good To Be True
While it’s fairly possible that you’ll meet your Mr. Right during your time here at FSU, be weary of the guys who seem too good to be true. I’m talking about the guys who might be into you for all of the wrong reasons, much like Hans. Sure, you might finish each other’s sandwiches, but if he proposes merely hours after meeting you or attempts to woo you in order to swipe your kingdom, that’s a bit of a red flag. Receiving a text at midnight asking what you’re up to? Yep, seems a little Hans-like to me. Although Anna is quick to put Kristoff on the back-burner, he turns out to be a genuinely good guy with her best interests in mind. Equipped with his reindeer sidekick Sven, this “fixer-upper” warms our hearts and proves that love truly is an open door.
3. Always Have Love For Your Sisters
I absolutely loved the fact that Disney reinforced the fact that love can come from various outlets in your life, not just from a significant other. Although slightly strained, Elsa and Anna’s relationship prove to be the true love story throughout Frozen, as they confirm the idea that you don’t always need a prince charming to save you (Props to Elsa for proving sometimes you don’t need a man at all to rule a kingdom). Whether biological, sorority, or simply a good friend, it’s important to keep a good relationship with the “sisters” in your life. Consider having a boy-free GNO to stay connected with your girls or shoot over a text reminding them how much they mean to you. It’s easy to get lost within schoolwork or your own prince charming, but making time for your sisters is a must.
4. Never Be Afraid To Chase Your Dreams, No Matter How Outlandish
As college students, we all have aspirations and goals that sometimes might seem a little far-fetched or out of reach. Stricken with the fear of failing or the possibility of looking stupid, so many opportunities are missed or even overlooked. By introducing the character of Olaf, a snowman who longs for summer, Frozen proves that you can have big dreams no matter how irrational or strange they may seem to others. Blissfully unaware of what summer would mean to a snowman, Olaf sings about getting tan and lounging on the beach, which we know very well is a deadly combination for a snowman. However, his optimism and cheery attitude proves that some things may be worth melting over.
5. Self Acceptance Is Key, Embrace Your Uniqueness
As a girl trying to navigate the trials and tribulations that accompany college life, it’s easy to fall into the trap of conformity or insecurity. We all have things that set us apart, whether it’s special talents or skills, physical attributes, the list goes on. Growing up and viewing her powers to control ice as a curse, Elsa struggles with self-acceptance and essentially shuts out those closest to her in the attempt to keep them safe. Once her secret is revealed and she flees to the mountains, Elsa embraces her power and finally comes to terms with her abilities. With a burst of confidence, she realizes that it’s okay to be herself, a lesson that resonates with girls of all ages.