This past May marked the third anniversary of my college graduation. Studying journalism, I received my Bachelor's degree from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York. Being just an hour and a half away from home, I was close enough to occasionally enjoy mom's cooking and far enough to get by without it. People say you're supposed to "find" yourself in college. I can't say I did just that but I certainly discovered things along the way.

Half the books you buy you will not use; you'll memorize your social security number within days of arriving; professors really can make a profound difference in your life, your goals, even your career paths; egg crates do some justice to dorm room mattresses; flip flops are essential - never go to the bathroom without wearing them; you can make as many friends in the cafeteria as you can joining social clubs, you'll spend ridiculous amounts of cash on bookstore trinkets proudly displaying your college name like key chains, bumper stickers, blankets, sweatshirts, pens, stuffed animals, shot glasses, T-shirts, boxer shorts and too much more.

Campus security is everywhere so be careful; your student I.D. will become a permanent fixture of yourself; you're not cursed for life if you don't send those ridiculous e-mail chain letters to six people; sharing a bathroom with 50 strangers is as horrible as it sounds; chocolate-frosted Pop Tarts can substitute, and often do, for real breakfast food; freshmen are the butt of many, many jokes and tales of $10 reimbursements for bought books are all too real!

But most important, even if you don't fully find your identity, you'll discover different parts of yourself every day. Strange characteristics your roommate points out may one day hit you like a ton of bricks. Silly things like the way you have to have music playing while studying or you can't concentrate, the way you put salsa on everything you eat or how you can miraculously function on just three hours of sleep.

Either way, college is a learning experience even if you realize the silly things first. It's about growing up and finding out who you really are, whether you're living there or commuting. The experience can turn your mind inside out and take your world, as you know it, for a joy ride. So, my advice to you is wear your seat belt and drive the journey. Turn the radio up real loud, even put the top down sometimes, it'll feel good to feel free.

-Carisa Keane