I miss college

A few of my cousins are in college now - one at my alma mater. I have to say, I'm incredibly jealous.

I had a blast at the University of Florida. What should have been a three-year experience took four. The advisors tried to get me to graduate after my third year, but since my full ride was still in place for the fourth year, I declined their kind offer.

Classes were something I did off and on (mostly off), but I was really involved with on-campus activities. I did the Dorm Geek thing for three of the four years, and though I hope to never share a bathroom with 50 women again, I have to say it was a remarkable experience.

I led groups, created events, worked with a budget - all things I'd never done before. I met an incredible number of people. I ran for student government. I lost, but I did it.

I helped a close friend run for student body president. A TEN THOUSAND DOLLAR campaign. Also a loser. But I've never worked harder for something. It was my job to keep him in line, make him show up to things on time. I was only brought in because the party (yes, the student government PARTY) didn't think anyone else could. It was a crushing loss, but we all shared it together.

I think the thing I loved the most about college was that I had no idea what the hell I was doing with my life. But back then, I didn't feel like I had to. I was there to explore, to grow. The point wasn't the end result, but rather the journey.

Now that I'm out in the real world, I feel pressured to figure out what I'm doing with my life. I'm almost 30. I have a law degree. I've almost completed a master's degree. And because I've acquired almost another two degrees, I have to work to pay for it. The time for exploration is over.

And that makes me sad.