Ryan ChartrandSo I figure babies are scarier now in college than they were in high school.
By my senior year of high school I saw five friends learn that they were expecting. (Two girls simultaneously by the same guy. We’re talkin’ weeks apart but that’s a whole different story.)
I’m still not sure what made it relatively passable as I see many things amiss with “babies makin’ babies.” Perhaps it was the disadvantaged neighborhood, or for whatever reason it was acceptable for them so everyone responded similarly, or just that the fetuses inside these 16- and 17-year-olds were “surprises.”
Concurrently, I’ve got a better handle on why babies are scarier now.
I’m presenting this for the majority of the Cal Poly “kids” out there, ranging from 18 to about 23 years old, singles and undergrads, looking out for themselves.
The typical Western evolution of our life events is creeping into a new juncture that I see more frequently. They’re some of the biggest decisions, and exciting grown-up things we can do.
I know, ambiguous life-metamorphosis statements are unnecessary. They’ve been considered by everybody and known as inevitable. If we don’t participate, we’re surrounded by friends and colleagues who do.
This encircling has already begun for me and may have for you, too.
I’ve only been to two weddings thus far. The first wedding I ever attended was for a co-worker who was 26. I was 20. Not so scary. The second wedding I ever attended, I was a bridesmaid in. I’ve known the bride since the second grade and we’re the same age. The wedding was this past summer. I was 21.
Another bridesmaid was already married with a son; she’s younger than me. Another bridesmaid was engaged and we’re the same age. Scarier? A little bit.
Dating is still a fun and playful thing for most that I know, including myself. This progression is definitely something to consider, though. I suppose it’s just seeing where it all goes. All I’m saying is that I’m thrown off by the unfurling of a major change that comes with this stage, that feels as though it has snuck in when no one was looking and gawks at you as if to say, “Well … what did you expect?”
Don’t get me wrong, it works very well for some. Experiences vary with every person. Who am I to say what age people should or shouldn’t get married and have kids at? Your life is your own, as are your decisions.
I could see myself married someday. And yes, kids are possible. I’m not counting on any of it, however, and there is no deadline.
This is merely me saying that I personally am intimidated by this new maturation. It’s going to take a little getting used to.
Agnes-Dei Farrant is a journalism junior and a Mustang Daily reporter.