Going to College- an important transition

" A new place, and new friends to make,

You are there, I am there, new trends will be set,

a life of freedom, joy and fun,

yes, I am 'crazy' on the run".

As I was bidding adieu with a heavy heart and wet eyes to one of the most cherished chapters of my life, there were feelings of excitement and enthusiasm to step into another most awaited phase of life- the college life. My heart had mixed feelings of curiosity and nostalgia as I was extremely excited for that long awaited destination which would give me newly-attained freedom, new friends, hangouts, new dreams and unexplored independence. 

                     

Yes! it has been more than a decade now but still that last day of my school is fresh in my memories. I am sure I am not the only one to save this memory. Everyone does, but the problem lies with most of the parents are that they forget their teenager years, memories of pranks played, their first crushes, stupid fights, late night pyjamas parties and many more naughty acts...not to mention.  The same individual when dealing with their daughter or son as a parent becomes so possessive that a never ending list of do's and won't's is always ready in their pockets. Why parenting becomes so difficult when you have already crossed that road. Rather it should be easy as we can strip the bad and present the best to the children. But while stripping, we can't say that stop exploring and listen as I say. As we all know as a parent, the teenager mind is full of zest and is always curious to explore the other side of the world, which is far from childhood dream's and fantasies. But, we can't help as a parent to see our child getting out of a protective and loving atmosphere of the school to the place which is unknown and  a mixture of good and bad people. 

But we can surely help our children understand the importance of college education and its own rules by imparting these tips and make it memorable. Read it down to your sons and daughters who are college goers or taking the first step of this transition of life.

• " I am thrilled and I just have to look stunning, whatever it may be, at the end, looks do matter"--there is a series of such comments from the very excited college aspirants. And, actually, at this stage of life it is very true. The rage to be with the latest fashion trends is on. Before this day arrives, you get busy with shopping in malls, visiting nail bars, tattoo studios and what not, leaving a big hole in your parents pocket. But do you know that even a completely new haircut will change your personality. The most important thing is to look good, feel good because that will boost your confidence. You don't have to blindly follow the trends to be"In" with the crowd, rather make your own style statement that reflects your true personality.
• You can dress up in a nice pair of fitted jeans with a chick top or a casual shirt or tees. A knee length skirt or a fitted legging which is in vogue these days with a well-fitted kurta is another option. For the guys, a well-fitted pair of jeans or a cargo is the best suited. It can be teamed up with a cool casual shirt or a nice funky T-shirt with some cool prints or texts. The only rule you have to follow is, don't overdo stuff and don't go off track. In awe to look completely different, don't end up looking funny or completely out of place. Remember, the attitude matters more than the attire. Wear the perfect combination of confidence and amiability.
• As the girls are busy making rounds to parlours, the boys are not far behind. Another trick the youngsters do to change their image is body piercing which is common among both boys and girls. It's okay to an extent, but be sure you don't get too wild in doing so that the principal just throws you out of the college. You have just got freedom from that boring school uniform, but remember that you are still a "student". So, whatever you wear, it must be decent and you must carry it with the grace. Now you are adults who know the difference between looking cool and vulgar. Every youngster has a desire to flaunt their micro minis, halter or off-shoulders tops and not to mention that sexy little black dress, but college is just not the place. Preserve them for parties and night outs which will follow soon.
• Apart from dressing up in a proper manner, don't leave out shopping for a funky bag. But, make sure it is spacious enough meant for college and not for the party. Once classes begin, you will have assignments and folders to carry. A comfortable pair of shoes and slip-on is another must have. Do not wear a high heel and do catwalk to grab the attention. Comfort should be the priority. These days malls are flooded with beautiful print shoes, moccasins and loafers. Add them to your wardrobe. If you are those dressy kinds, then some kohl for the eyes and a sexy lip gloss to highlight the lips is a good idea. Loud makeup is a big no-no to the college. After all, no one wants to be "chalta-phirta makeup kee dukan". 
• College means freedom, no more nagging and interference from folks, where you live on your own terms, do what you wish, but don't take advantage of this newly developed freedom. If you use in the wrong way, you will have to be responsible for the consequences that will follow. So just chill, but don't do something that will make a chill run down the spine of your parents.

So, to sum up, an appropriate dress, a funky bag, comfy footwear, cool attitude and to top it all, a pleasing smile, you are all set to rock the world.

Remember, dear youngsters, College means freedom, fun and opportunity to make life long friendships, but amongst all this, you must not forget the prime reason for which you are there. You need to strike a balance. The college provides a self-dependant platform for professional and as well as personal learning. It is the place where innovation, individuality and change are encouraged and embraced. It gives you an environment where you have the freedom of thought and expression in a true sense, where you can be nothing but yourself. It is a transforming phase where you learn by your own mistakes, take risks, invent something new about the world every day, and most importantly, learn to deal with different kinds of people and situations. College years are the time when you learn to be responsible for your own actions. Don't forget that the coming years of your life would shape up on the basis of how you spend your time in college. It does not necessarily mean that you have to be a nerd but there have to be limits. 

Everyone is excited about bunking classes, having crushes, making girlfriends/boyfriends and flirting around but all these constitutes just a "part of" college life. The essential purpose is to prepare yourself for life and chalk out a satisfying and successful career for yourself.