College is meant to enrich our lives and make us lifelong learners. But we’ve all felt a bit exasperated with the seemingly useless, not-remotely-applicable-to-the-real-world lessons we’ve been taught. While we may never need to know algebra at our day jobs, these topics do prove there are just some things you can’t learn in a classroom.
1. How to travel
There’s a lot that goes into traveling. Not only do you have to make excruciatingly detailed travel arrangements but you have to learn to go with the flow and interact peacefully with other people.
2. How to complete a proper binge-watching session
As we all know, Netflix is a dangerous habit. That’s why learning how to binge-watch without consequences is something you can only learn with lots of practice.
3. How to be a good friend
Everyone has that one friend they complain about constantly. But every now and then, you have to take a step back and check whether or not you’re living up to your own standards of friendship. It goes both ways!
4. How to be alone
It’s good if you can learn to be alone. You don’t always need people surrounding you. Take some time to yourself, and you’ll be surprised at the recharge it gives you.
5. How to deal in a work environment
The real world is not like college where you only see your peers a couple of days a week. You have to learn how to work with people who don’t necessarily see eye-to-eye with you. While your professors may have you believe this is the purpose of those endlessly annoying group projects, it’s a bit different when it’s a long-term arrangement.
6. How to get (and know) what you want
The first step in getting what you want is knowing what you want. Most importantly, never settle. This applies to your career, your dating life, and even your grocery list.
7. How to lose control
You can’t control every situation, and there’s no sense in worrying about things you can’t change. Although it’s tough, don’t stress yourself out. Rather, let go and lean in.
8. How to love the little things
For all its fun times and serious efforts to make us successful, functioning human beings, college doesn’t exactly show us how to enjoy the simpler things in life. When it’s all said and done, you’ll be much happier if you appreciate small joys.
9. How to be yourself
Learning to be comfortable in your own skin is tricky. But this one takes time and adjustment. You’ll be better for it on the other side, too.