We're told that we're supposed to learn how to be responsible, independent adults while at college. In fact, that's 90% of the college experience- learning how to live your life on your own. So why the hell aren't dorms open on breaks?! Why must we face four months of "clean your room" and "dad can get you a job at the office"?
Breaks and holidays are hell. We go from managing sixteen things at once, ranging from classes to clubs to parties to hangovers, and right when we get in the groove we're forced to return to sharing a bathroom with people we CAN'T bitch to, on threat of death, and we have to face what we fear the most- day to day parental contact that goes beyond the customary ten minute phonecall.
Another painful aspect of break is returning to that dreaded local job you've had since senior year in high school, or the summer before college. This is the job that taught you why you needed a degree. My partner in crime has submitted a few of her sketches done while at work to demonstrate my point that part-time work is full-time hell.
In short, the kolige years, in their own way, teach you that life is as unpredictable as hell. As soon as things go one way, they inexplicably change directions and you're waiting for the wind to blow west again so Mary Poppins can come back into town.