The Griffon News

I have a grudge against blink-182; they tainted 23.

When the 23rd year rolled around for my buddies instead of just saying, “Happy birthday!” I would dutifully share Mark Hoppus’ keen observation and say, “Happy birthday! Now, nobody is going to like you.”

The first time I heard “What’s My Age Again?” and found out that nobody likes you when you’re 23, I began to worry.

I would be 23 someday, and then what would happen?

Would I stop being invited to parties?

Would anyone even call?

What about my cat?

Does the rule apply to every creature or just humans?

Well folks, I’m half-way through 23, and I’m here to say that it’s been a good year. (In your face Hoppus!)

I’m married and have a cool new last name (thanks Honey), we will have our first child this year (thanks baby) and I’m going to graduate (thanks mom)!

Twenty-three has been the best year of my life thus far.

As much as I disagree with Hoppus, some things have occurred since my last birthday that make it seem like people dislike me.

It has manifested itself in three ways: MAP test, senior portfolio, exit exam.

You would think that to graduate, a student would just have to pass the required courses for his or her major.

Let me enlighten you.

Depending on your major or area of emphasis, you have to take an exit exam.

In addition to that all those wanting to graduate have to take the MAP test.

Being an English major with an emphasis in journalism, I get to skip the exit exam and instead put together a senior portfolio.

But wait!

I thought I would go ahead and add another emphasis in literature, so I still have to take an exit exam.

The administration and my advisor must have known all along.

They also knew I’d be 23 at graduation… you see where I’m going with this?

Oh well, Hoppus is still wrong.

Twenty-three rocks!

If you’re 22 and younger, you can still listen to blink-182 or +44 or Angels in Airwaves or whatever.

Just don’t take the message to heart.