I spent part of my Thanksgiving Break sitting in on a sociology class at my previous college, with the main intention of heckling a previous instructor after he had finished the lesson, and of course just to say hi. 

Earlier in the day I visited other instructors I had at Lake Land. 

The next day I had even by chance had run into the English instructor who had made me fall in love with discussion classes while out grabbing coffee at Starbucks, and we had a brief conversation about our favorite Stephen King books. 

I spent another part of my break painting in the living room of two of my closest friends, both in their mid 40’s and owners of their own businesses. 

I’ve been told I had an “old soul” for most of my life. I always got along better with people who were older than me as opposed to my peers.

 Some of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever received came from the seniors I taught basic internet and technology skills to on computers when I was in middle school.  

I think there is an inherent value in the friendship or mentorship of someone who, for lack of better words, “has their life together.” 

They might know of a job opening or might be willing to act as a reference on a resume. They know the world and it’s obstacles better. 

In my experience, they’re less likely to be partying hard on the weekends, something that I’ve never taken very kindly too. 

I’m sure it’s a wonderful experience for some, but others often prefer a quiet night in with a few friends. 

It’s much easier to have a quiet night with a cup of coffee, a good book, or a movie with a more settled group of individuals as opposed to fellow 20 something’s. 

While I know these types of things are situational, it’s important to value the relationships, both those in passing and those that will stick with you, with those who are not your peers. 

Zoë Donovan is a junior journalism major. They can be reached at 581–2812 or at zedonovan@eiu.edu.