For most 18 to 21 year olds, college is a formative environment that strongly influences their development from adolescence to adulthood. Most students enter college at 18 years of age and graduate at 21 as a more developed and (hopefully) more mature individual.
As a Comparative Human Development major, I’m interested in the experience of human development and identity formation across cultures and social contexts. In my final year of college, I’ve asked myself this question again and again, “How have I changed since first year?” In the spirit of anthropology, I will explain my observations and document my journey of change from 18 to 21.
At age 21, I feel more mentally and physically mature than when I started college at age 18. This journey to adulthood began with addressing my physical well-being in my second year and continues today; I’m learning how to become an adult every single day. Whether it be learning how to cook, how to handle finances, or manage the job search, I’m optimistic about change and eager to learn from each and every experience. I hope to share with you some of my takeaways, give some sage advice, and include as many culinary puns in my “Adulting in College” series.