Blog #4, "College Pressures"

Many great things come along with being a college student; but just as many pressures and stressors tag along as well. The first college "blow" I took was the realization that I would not be going to Kansas University, as I had always dreamed. At first, it was kind of a bummer. Though, I soon realized that my parents were doing the best they possibly could for me, and I learned to appreciate everything they do to help me journey through the college life. They have been very gracious the past 2 years or so of college, paying for over half of the costs, while pulling out student loans for the rest. The idea of being locked in the system of debt right as I finish up college is a little shocking, but there was really no other choice, as for most people these days.
  At first glance in retrospect, it doesn't seem that my college life has had as many pressures as one would assume. Peer pressure and parental pressure haven't really been there for me. My parents care infinitely about how well I do in school, and want nothing less than the best for me, but I've never felt real pressure from them. No matter how a semester turns out, they are happy that I got what I got, and no worse. Now, I don't get particularly bad grades, so that might explain why they never put much pressure on me. I try to give them as many A's as possible for their hard-earned money they spend on furthering my education.
  Since I started college, I have never really had a job during the school year (only during the summers). I lived at home the first two years, so much expenses were paid for, on top of my allowance I received. There was a point last semester where I got a one month temporary job, working easily over 30 hours a week. I know there are people out there that do way more than that, but nonetheless it was difficult to balance everything. I feel fortunate to have dipped my toe in the waters of having a job during the school year, mainly because I now have no choice. I moved into an apartment and now must learn to start supporting myself, while doing school. My parents are paying my rent and a little extra, but that leaves multiple other bills on top of groceries. It will be quite the adventure.
  The only way to deal with pressures is to conquer them as they come, one at a time. I will continue to learn and grow, bettering myself, and equiping myself for the future.