Entertainment

11 Must-See Movies To Watch Before College

by Zainab Akande

Ah, freshman year of college. It's a major milestone in the life of any former high school senior who decides to continue pursuing his/her education upon graduation. And sure, during freshman year you'll be prone to mistakes, but many awesome things will go down as well: for one, you'll make new friends, and you'll definitely pick up on all the little things about college life no one tells you about much faster than you think. That period in your life is gonna be very busy, which means that you'll probably need to carve out the time for entertainment. I've got you covered on what to watch, having complied 11 movies you should see before freshman year of college even begins.

During those first 12 months, you probably won't have as much time to Netflix, which means the summer before you hit the books hardcore for the next four years of your life is the perfect time to marathon movies. With so many films out there, it can be hard to decide which you absolutely must view, but don't worry — I've got your back. The following 11 movies are pretty much the only ones you need to watch to prove that you are pop-culturally savvy to all the new friends you make. They're also guaranteed to make you reminisce about high school, remind you of the mistakes you made back then, and guide you into doing better for yourself come college.

1. Clueless (1995)

Why It's A Must-See: Besides the movie being a pop culture staple, we can all agree that at some point in our lives, we were virgins who couldn't drive. But Clueless definitely gives the hope that we can overcome our licenseless-ness, virginity, or any other hurdles in life no matter what — and look fashionable as hell doing so.

Stream Clueless here.

2. Grease (1978)

Why It's A Must-See: In addition to satisfying your needs for a great musical, Grease is all about growing up and moving on from high school. The movie also goes to show that for any naysayers who believe that high school love can't continue, some summer lovin' can definitely be built to last.

Stream Grease here.

3. American Pie (1999)

Why It's A Must-See: This raunchy comedy is all about the quest of losing one's virginity, but that isn't to say you need to get your cherry popped before freshman year of college or during it. As they say, all good things happen in time.

Stream American Pie here.

4. Legally Blonde (2001)

Why It's A Must-See: I love Legally Blonde because it shows how even a ditzy blonde stereotype can ultimately rise to the occasion to get sh*t done. This movie shows that you can't judge a book by its cover, and it's an important lesson to keep in mind as you navigate freshman year.

Stream Legally Blonde here.

5. The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants (2005)

Why It's A Must-See: This is a great flick to view with your friend squad. Going away to college often means that you won't get to see your friends from high school any longer, as you all attend different schools. But no matter how far the distance, best friends are forever and this movie hits that nail on the head. Trust.

Stream The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants here.

6. Bring It On (2000)

Why It's A Must-See: Bring It On is a shoutout to all the cheerleaders, but also teaches a valuable lesson on squashing rivalries. As you're about to depart to college, it's good karma to be the mature one and make amends before moving forward with a clean slate.

Stream Bring It On here.

7. Wet Hot American Summer (2001)

Why It's A Must-See: This hilarious romp set in the '80s (which has a great Netflix prequel), is fantastic in terms of nostalgia for all the summers you've might have spent away at camp.

Stream Wet Hot American Summer here.

8. Superbad (2007)

Why It's A Must-See: You'll get some major tips on what to do and what not to do as you plan your high school graduation party, to say the least.

Stream Superbad here.

9. Mean Girls (2004)

Why It's A Must-See: Because being a mean girl is never, ever cool. Not in high school and definitely not in college. In fact, it's downright ridiculous, as this movie starring Lindsay Lohan brilliantly shows.

Stream Mean Girls here.

10. The Breakfast Club (1985)

Why It's A Must-See: Because everyone has seen The Breakfast Club. Like, everyone. Also this movie is totally relatable for every single person who's ever had to spend time in detention. Thankfully, there is no detention in college. Welcome to magical world of adult living!

Stream The Breakfast Club here.

11. Sex And The City (2008)

Because sometimes, it's good to remember that adult women don't always have their lives together, either — and in fact, theirs are probably even less-figured out than yours.

Stream Sex And The City here.

Going away to college is no easy feat, but these 11 movies should help ease the adjustment, and provide some great entertainment along the way.

Images: Giphy (11); Paramount Pictures