the differences between my friendships in college and in childhood

The differences between friendships in college and childhood can be vast, primarily due to the various stages of life, maturity, and experiences. Here are some key distinctions: 1. **Foundation**: - **Childhood**: Childhood friendships are often formed through proximity, such as living in the same neighborhood, attending the same school, or participating in the same activities. They're usually based on shared experiences and interests that are straightforward and don't require deep understanding. - **College**: Friendships in college might be formed through shared academic interests, clubs, organizations, or living situations. The foundation is more likely to be deeper as individuals choose their friends based on shared values, beliefs, and goals. 2. **Duration and Longevity**: - **Childhood**: Childhood friends are often with you for years, if not most of your childhood. These friendships can be long-lasting, especially if you keep in touch. - **College**: College friendships can be intense and fast-paced due to the condensed environment. While some may last a lifetime, others may fade once the shared experience ends. 3. **Maturity Levels**: - **Childhood**: Childhood friends are often at similar developmental stages. Their perspectives on life are limited by their age and experiences. - **College**: College students are older and have had more life experiences, leading to more complex and nuanced relationships. 4. **Purpose**: - **Childhood**: Childhood friendships are typically about companionship, playing together, and having fun. - **College**: Friendships in college often serve multiple purposes - they can be about personal growth, networking, finding a study partner, or even exploring deeper philosophical or emotional topics. 5. **Commitment**: - **Childhood**: Children might argue and then immediately make up without holding grudges. - **College**: Adult friendships, including those in college, might require more active maintenance, communication skills, and conflict resolution. 6. **Diversity**: - **Childhood**: Friends in childhood are often from similar backgrounds or socioeconomic statuses. - **College**: College brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives, allowing for a richer array of friendships. 7. **Influence**: - **Childhood**: Friends in childhood can heavily influence each other's behaviors and attitudes. - **College**: While friends in college can still influence each other, individuals tend to have more established beliefs and are less susceptible to peer pressure. 8. **Responsibility**: - **Childhood**: Friendships in childhood are often carefree and without many responsibilities outside of play. - **College**: Friendships in college might involve supporting each other emotionally, academically, and sometimes financially. 9. **Transitions**: - **Childhood**: Childhood friends often grow up together, experiencing many of life's milestones simultaneously. - **College**: Friendships in college might be tested by post-graduation transitions, such as job relocations or further education in different places. In conclusion, while both childhood and college friendships hold value and meaning, they serve different purposes and evolve in unique ways. The bonds formed in each phase can shape our lives, teach us important lessons, and provide cherished memories.