Hello.
I’m 21 years old,and I’m from the middle east(white,not Arab,not Muslim) .I went to college at 17,so I’m graduated now.
I want to apply for a grad degree in CA.Probably among UCLA,SDSU,UCSB,UCSD.
I really want to have young and fresh friends from 18 to 23 yo but what I’m very worry about is if the college students community couldn’t accept me since I’m old.
This is the most important reason for me to apply,I don’t say studying is not important,but those are more important,at least they give me energy and motive for studying and living,so for now studying is not my main topic to discuss.
What I want to say is that there is no social/religious problem with me ,I mean,I’m very social ,and I want to be like Americans,I like American life style,culture,and being as a person who has that life style and culture.I’m really motivated towards them.
So,What do you think? What would happen?
Can I join college students?
How easy can I be dissolved in college people communities?
Can I choose them as my close friends/or even close as my family?Would being a grad student not let me do so?
What about frat parties?!
For how long,could I be a person who is accepted in those communities?
Do I take this so serious?!
Please add anything you want.
Thank you for reading this.
21 is really not that old, especially since (if I understand this correctly) you’re applying as a graduate student, in which case it’s actually very young. As an undergrad, most of my friends are 21+ (even though I’m not). I also have friends who, for various reasons, are as old as 27 and still undergrads. People don’t really ask how old you are, and if they happen to find out, they won’t care.
I’ve been an American for 25 years and I still have no idea what it means to live an “American lifestyle” or whatever.
Anyway, 21 is fine for undergrad or grad. You’d definitely be on the young side for a grad student since most people graduate around 22, 23 (assuming a “traditional” 4 year, out of high school plan).
I’m concerned that you’re setting up unrealistic expectations for what social life is like at American colleges. Sure, there are parties and enriching discussions but not constantly. Most of the time, life is pretty boring.
I’d think it’d be very interesting to talk to someone who comes from a different country, strike up conversation with people I’m sure they’d be interested in you. Also 21 is not that old so the age gap shouldn’t matter