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Things I Thought I'd Outgrow by 21 (But Definitely Haven't)

  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2025/11 .. ht-i-d-outgrow-by-21-but-definitely-haven-t.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Monday, November 3rd 2025 at 11:25 GMT by Her Campus
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Things I Thought I’d Outgrow by 21 (But Definitely Haven’t)

By the time many of us hit our early twenties, there’s a cultural expectation that we’ll have shed the habits and quirks of adolescence. The piece “Things I Thought I’d Outgrow by 21 but Definitely Haven’t,” published by HerCampus on the Susquehanna University platform, offers a candid and humor‑laden look at how certain teenage tendencies can linger well into adulthood. The writer— a sophomore at Susquehanna University who has already navigated a semester of finals, part‑time work, and a burgeoning love for coffee— uses the essay as a vehicle to reflect on identity, resilience, and the non‑linear path of growing up.

The Surprising Endurance of Social Media

A prominent theme throughout the article is the writer’s continued dependence on social media. While most students would anticipate a detachment from platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok by the age of 21, the author confesses that she still spends hours scrolling through feed updates, liking posts, and replying to friend requests. She acknowledges that social media provides a sense of belonging and instant feedback, which she finds comforting in an often chaotic academic environment. The piece links to a HerCampus article titled “10 Ways College Students Can Reduce Their Social Media Use,” which offers practical strategies like setting screen‑time limits, scheduling ‘digital detox’ periods, and curating feeds to reduce comparison.

Music as a Constant Companion

Another “teen‑age habit” that persists is the writer’s deep attachment to certain musical genres and artists. She explains how she still listens to bands she discovered in high school and prefers vinyl records to streaming playlists. The essay references a linked article, “The Psychology of Music Nostalgia,” which discusses how familiar songs can act as emotional anchors, helping young adults navigate stress and uncertainty. By highlighting these connections, the writer underscores that music is more than entertainment—it is a living memory that fuels resilience.

The Perpetual Love of Food Comforts

Food is another area where the author reveals that her tastes have not radically changed. She openly admits that she still craves instant noodles, pizza, and other “comfort foods” that she associated with late‑night study sessions or post‑exam celebrations. This candidness is tied to a link in the article that directs readers to a HerCampus guide titled “Healthy Snack Options for Busy College Students,” which offers suggestions for nutrient‑dense alternatives to indulgent treats, along with quick preparation tips for students living in dorm rooms or apartments.

The Role of Caffeine in Adult Life

Caffeine, too, remains a staple in the writer’s routine. She recounts her habit of starting the day with an espresso or a large drip coffee and often finding herself reaching for an extra cup during exam week. This mention is complemented by a reference to a separate HerCampus feature, “Coffee and Concentration: What the Science Says,” which explains how caffeine can improve alertness and focus when used moderately—an important reminder for students who juggle multiple responsibilities.

The Persistence of Emotional Sensitivity

The essay doesn’t shy away from the more nuanced aspects of aging out of teenage sensitivities. The writer shares how she still feels emotionally affected by comments or messages that others might dismiss as “just a joke.” She argues that this heightened emotional response is an important part of her emotional intelligence, enabling her to navigate interpersonal relationships with empathy and authenticity. A linked article on HerCampus, “Navigating Emotional Boundaries as a College Student,” offers insights into setting healthy boundaries and recognizing when emotions become overwhelming.

The Humorous and Honest Tone

Throughout the essay, the author balances humor with self‑reflection. Phrases such as “I’m still wearing my high‑school hoodie in the winter of my sophomore year” or “I still send the same meme to my friend group each week” illustrate her willingness to embrace her identity in all its forms. By acknowledging that these habits can feel out of place in a college setting, she invites readers to question societal pressures that dictate a linear progression of maturity.

A Call to Reframe Growth

Ultimately, the piece serves as a gentle reminder that growing up is not a straight line; rather, it’s a mosaic of experiences, preferences, and habits that can coexist across ages. The writer’s story resonates with anyone who feels the tug of teenage nostalgia in the midst of adult responsibilities. She suggests that instead of viewing these habits as obstacles, they can be reframed as sources of comfort and continuity in an ever‑changing world.

In sum, “Things I Thought I’d Outgrow by 21 but Definitely Haven’t” offers a relatable, well‑researched snapshot of adolescent habits that continue into early adulthood. By weaving in links to practical resources—ranging from mental health guides to nutritional advice—the article not only shares personal insights but also equips readers with actionable tools to balance the old and the new as they navigate college life and beyond.