A Change Would Do You Good, Honestly: Why Evolving as a Young Adult Is Actually a Good Thing

How you change is totally up to you. You might find yourself shifting socially with new friends, emotionally as you deal with ups and downs, physically as you settle into new habits, or politically as your views evolve. Honestly, if you don’t see any change in yourself by the time you graduate, you might be missing out on what college is all about. To borrow a line from one of my favorite songs, “What good is living the life you’ve been given if all you do is stand in one place?” It’s a reminder that college is a time to move forward and shake things up. Embracing change, even when it’s uncomfortable, is part of making the most of your college experience. So, dive in and let yourself evolve—it’s all part of the journey. 

If your appearance, behavior, style, or beliefs haven’t changed since you began college, you might still be clinging to the mindset of living at home with your parents. This can create a sense of being confined to limited spaces and restricted in your personal growth. While there’s no disrespect meant toward parents, it’s challenging to evolve as an individual when you’re surrounded by the same people you’ve known for the past 18 years.  Living at home often means you’re operating within familiar routines and expectations, which can limit your exposure to new perspectives and experiences. College is a unique time for self-discovery and transformation, offering opportunities to meet diverse people and engage in activities that challenge your existing beliefs and habits. The transition to independence allows you to explore different facets of your identity, take risks, and develop a more nuanced understanding of yourself and the world around you. Embracing this change is crucial for personal development, helping you move beyond the comfort zone of your childhood environment and fostering growth that prepares you for the future. 

I use the term ‘change’ rather than ‘growth’ because it’s entirely possible to undergo change without actually growing during your time in college. I emphasize change because even bad change is change, and that’s okay. Change refers to any alteration in circumstances, perspectives, or environments, and this process is a constant during your college years. You might experience shifts in your academic interests, personal relationships, or even your sense of self. These changes are part of the journey and occur regardless of whether they lead to personal or intellectual advancement. When faced with negative or challenging situations—such as academic failures, personal conflicts, or unexpected difficulties—these instances still represent change. They are moments of transition, even if they don’t immediately lead to growth or improvement. By focusing on change, we acknowledge the reality that not all transitions will be smooth or beneficial in the short term. Accepting that bad change is still a form of change allows us to embrace all aspects of our experience without placing undue pressure on ourselves to always emerge from every situation having grown. This perspective encourages us to see value in the process of change itself, understanding that it is an integral part of our development, regardless of the immediate outcomes.