When people think about their teenage years, it’s often the worst or most cringeworthy memories that come to mind. But, as Monique Henry Registe points out, there are also some plus sides to being a teenager…
The joy of education
Education is a way to constantly improve your knowledge.
As teenagers, we are able to choose between the subjects that we don't enjoy and the ones we love. Being 18 and a student is the most nerve-racking part of being a teen, but it’s also the most exciting. It allows us to meet new people with the same interests, which sometimes leads to new friendship groups.
I’m currently studying film, media and creative writing, which I love. The subjects are hard work, but they encourage me to create and develop ideas. I love that I am always learning, improving and changing my perspective.
Thanks to ever-evolving technology, we are able to manage our social life, entertainment interests and personal image on many different platforms, from Instagram to Facebook and Twitter. And our freedom doesn’t end there - being eighteen is not just an age where you are treated as a young adult (from the government’s perspective), but it’s also a time when you are in charge of your own actions.
The best bit? You can officially drive a car, go partying on a Saturday night without having to worry about being grounded the next day and, if you find yourself a full or part-time job, you can spend your money on whatever you like. It doesn’t get much better than that.
The internet is a window of opportunity for teens. We can upload content, share ideas and even network with potential employers on LinkedIn.
There are other opportunities outside of the digital world, too. I am currently part of The Girls' Network foundation, where my personal mentor, Charlie Young, introduced me to someone who helped me to find work experience in media. I then received an email from Natasha Lunn, who kindly invited me for a day’s work experience at Red Magazine to get an insight into how content is edited and created. The opportunities for teenagers are out there, but it’s up to us to be passionate and to go out and find them.
And finally: the unknown, which is perhaps the best part of being a teenager.
Not knowing where you will be in a couple of years is incredibly exciting. It means you can try new things, take risks and be open-minded, without worrying about a set path or plan. It feels like an adventure is just beginning.