Oh, The Places You’ll Go!
October 28, 2024
Writer: Ava Malkin
Editors: Dani Eder & Kate Shapiro
Photo: Pinterest
As children, many of us read books by Dr. Seuss. Most of his work surrounded simple messages– listening to one’s parents, trying new foods, treating everyone equally, and some have no message, “one fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish” is just a fun repetition. However, Oh, The Places You’ll Go! contains far-from-trivial morals that resonate with individuals of all ages, even applicable to college students.
The book's strong themes explain why it has become a viral trend and tradition to gift a graduating high school senior with the book. It provides them with a nostalgic sense of their childhood education and experiences while reminding them of the messages that will continue to hold true throughout life.
Dr. Seuss starts Oh, The Places You’ll Go! by telling us, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go.”
These few sentences perfectly encompass the independence that young adults experience once arriving at college. The transition from high school to college represents an unparalleled journey of growth and decision-making, forcing students to find their classes, seek out new friends, break out of their comfort zones, and decide their path in life. Dr. Seuss prompts us to recall that while all of these avenues might seem overwhelming, we have enough intelligence and maturity to forge our own paths. YOU are the one who chooses the direction that fits your aspirations and motives.
He continues, “You'll look up and down streets. Look 'em over with care. About some you will say, ‘I don't choose to go there.’”
While we find which direction is right for us, whether that be concerning our majors, friend groups, extracurricular activities, or professor interactions, we must recognize that it’s okay to say “no.” It is not uncommon for college students to start the year with packed schedules, trying to make time for every new friend, a wealth of new clubs, or a multitude of different classes, all whilst still finding time to sleep and eat. We must remember that there are only so many hours in the day, and nobody will ever blame you for taking a rain check, prioritizing yourself, and choosing a path of happiness, relaxation, and bliss.
Saying “no” should never imply that you will be left out or fall behind. Dr. Seuss even states, “You won't lag behind, because you'll have the speed.”
Beyond social contexts, this sentiment reflects a common worry for college-aged individuals. Often, students arrive at their classes and feel a sense of “imposter syndrome” or self-doubt once surrounded by equally intelligent and hardworking students. Dr. Seuss makes it abundantly clear that we are meant to be where we are, that we have the speed – the work ethic, intelligence, and strength – to push through and remember that we deserve to enjoy every moment, learn everything we can, and get out of our own heads.
In college, our anxieties can sometimes force us to become our own biggest enemies.“I'm afraid that sometimes you'll play lonely games too. Games you can't win 'cause you'll play against you. All Alone! Whether you like it or not, Alone will be something you'll be quite a lot,” Dr. Seuss explained.
This book forces us to acknowledge that when we have this sense of independence, it’s normal to feel lonely. The concepts of independence and isolation can sometimes feel synonymous. At that point, all we can do is step back and try to get out of our own way because our apprehensions can obstruct the direction we originally wanted to take. Sitting in class by yourself, eating one meal alone, taking a short nap without your roommate there, the list continues… It’s all part of the college experience. So, relish in those times “alone” because “alone” gives us the opportunity to think, energy to continue, and true independence.
Dr. Seuss concludes, “And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed!... Kid, you’ll move mountains.”
Oh, The Places You’ll Go! is a reminder that all will turn out exactly as it’s supposed to. Going to college—learning in all your classes, making new friends, engaging in all the extracurriculars, and developing a social network—are all stepping stones on the path to joy and success.
So, what started as a childish book now serves as a metaphor for college life, reminding us to select our own paths, say “no” if it means prioritizing ourselves, have confidence in our abilities, appreciate our moments alone, and find our delight in any path we choose.
