Beginner's Guide to Becoming a NCC.

For as long as I've been self-aware, I've fought to avoid conformity to the rest of American society. And through this philosophy of life that stemmed as a preteen I've also come to realize that to the contrary of attempting to avoid conformity, I have in fact, conformed.

It's like that old adage says: "You may think you're all different, but really you're all the same."

And so, even though I've conformed, my fellow non-conforming-conformists can contest that life as a non-conforming-conformist is much more amusing and spontaneous - and probably not for the faint of heart - as we do not find it obligatory to follow norms of the American young adult's lifestyle.

Here is a list of ways to become a non-conforming-conformist (some of which I have personally tested, others that I still need to conquer):
1. Attend a major 4 year University whether you know what you want to do or not. Face it, the important part of college is realizing that you can get belligerently sloshed 5 days a week and still manage to earn a degree. Remember: C's get degrees.
2. Don't let people tell you that you have to graduate college in 4 years. Why would you ever want to do such a thing? *cue life quote* "I wish I  knew then what I know now." It is paramount to realize that college is the absolute last chance you have to be a slutty drunk, have no bills, no worries, and no responsibilities.
3. Once you've drawn out college long enough, at least graduate. But don't feel that you are required to go find a 9 to 5 career - right away, anyways. It's nice to draw out that lack of wanting responsibility a little bit longer by getting a job as a bartender, or joining Peace Core.
4. Don't be afraid of recreational drugs. Yes, I said it. Why is that so taboo? We're all curious. It's human nature. The key to drugs (and every vice) is moderation, and age appropriation.
5. Use your assets to get what you want. There's nothing wrong with flirting - don't you want out of that speeding ticket or an extra generous tip? Yes.
6. Be yourself. Make no apologies. There is only one you, and as someone once told me, we need everyone to make the world go 'round. So embrace who you are, even if that means that some people won't understand you.
7. Find your own spiritual path. I know, it may sound like I'm getting a little 'one love' on ya, but really. To each their own. Believe in Adam and Eve? That's great. Believe your next life is determined by how you lived this one? That's great, too.
8. No matter what you decide to do with your life, keep focused on your happiness. If you aren't happy, change so you will be. If there is one thing that we all have control over in this life, it is our own happiness.