Our parents' generation looks back nostalgically to the summer of 1969, when free love reigned supreme and everyone had flowers in their hair. Our youth, however, will always be defined by a less idyllic summer that will be remembered for its cultural excesses, bleach blond beauties, designer handbags, and skintight clothing that leaves nothing to the imagination. In short, we have just had the summer of Paris Hilton.
To some, Paris symbolizes all that is wrong with modern society. Her frivolous spending and waiflike figure coupled with a notorious penchant for partying place her behind Jessica Simpson as a credible role model for anyone with any scholarly aspirations.
Certainly, no one would use any of her vacuous quotations, which include wonderful insights such as "Every woman should have four pets in her life. A mink in her closet, a jaguar in her garage, a tiger in her bed, and a jackass who pays for everything" as inspiration in a welcoming address to first-year students.
But mini-skirts and daily shopping sprees aside, Paris Hilton may have some important lessons to impart to all of us. While she might not be an intellectual role model, behind her party girl pretension is a joyful exuberance and self-confidence that would improve the college career of any student, whether a timid freshman or jaded senior.
One lesson that many khaki-coated students at Bowdoin might learn from Paris is how to have fun with their clothes. Sure, Paris's clothes are tighter than even the most promiscuous student would want and her budget is looser than that of the wealthiest moneyed debutante, but you don't have to be on a first name basis with Donatella Versace and Muccia Prada to add a little fashionable flair to your wardrobe.
Maybe you don't, like Paris, have access to your mom's extensive collection of jewels, but if your roommate has a few of those light pastel skirts, why not borrow one instead of wearing your usual pair of jeans? And while guys can't (and probably shouldn't) attempt to replicate Paris's unique sense of style, they could surely put on a brightly colored shirt. Hey, if it works for Paris, it will work for you!
Contrary to her reputation as a spoiled socialite and pampered princess, Paris Hilton may be able to not only demonstrate the importance of good fashion but also to teach students the value of hard work. While her starring role in a certain infamous film is perhaps best not replicated by co-eds, you can't help admiring her go-getting optimism and ability to attract attention wherever she goes. From starring in two seasons of the hit reality TV show, The Simple Life, to campaigning for animal rights, Paris is so busy you wonder how she finds the time to even shop!
College students would be wise to take a hint from Paris and venture forth to sample some of the activities that the college has to offer instead of watching Friends reruns alone. After all, if Paris could find something to do in rural Arkansas while she was shooting the first season of The Simple Life, then we can all surely find something to do up here in Maine.
Lastly, Paris Hilton demonstrates the importance of knowing when it's time to indulge. Perhaps we can't all pamper ourselves like Paris but whether it's treating yourself to a facial mask at an exclusive New York spa or reading People magazine instead of that dry Philosophy text, sometimes everyone just needs a respite from the tawdriness of daily life. So go on and indulge, Paris would want you to.