Many times in my life I have felt degraded because of my age, but currently I actually feel stereotyped. Some would say there is a specific phase in life to pursue a degree, marry and have children. Finishing up my fourth year in college, I am constantly being interrogated. What is your plan after college? Do you have a ring on your finger yet? Nearing college graduation, these are commonly-asked questions I can’t answer. As if finishing school is not stressful enough, I deal with the pressure of needing to answer these questions when asked.
To say that people are curious is an understatement. Sometimes, these questions make me think that my life is not on track. I am constantly being boggled down with the idea that I have to have everything figured out at this transitional age. I am 22 and supposed to be on top of the world, but there is a lot of uncertainty in my life right now. One minute I am being told it is okay to not have things set in stone. On the other hand, people will say, “time is ticking,” and I need to have everything mapped out. This has been a complicated year as I have had to balance future plans and set goals for myself, along with working two jobs and being a full-time student. I have many things on my plate regarding my future career path, and I hope to live outside of Montgomery one day. It is easy to get wrapped up in other opinions when really everyone’s plans are going to be different.
I am expected to graduate in December along with many of my college friends. Also, I will be a bridesmaid in two weddings the Saturday after graduation. Love is everywhere in my friend groups. I am thrilled for those who are ready to make this commitment. My friends seem to have things figured out with graduating, finding jobs and getting married. I am okay with being a carefree, laid back individual who wants nothing more out of life than to be happy, and living for every moment. I would be perfectly content working three jobs until I figure out my career path and I am happy being single. I am content with uncertainty, and timing will find its own way. It is all about embracing every life season, because they will one day end. There are too many pressures in today’s society to fit a certain stigma.
By Marlee Damrel