Opinion: Is adulting fun?

By Michael Glenn

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Today, I turn 18 years old. 

If you’re reading this the day it was published, today, March 30, 2025 is the first day of my adulthood. 

To be honest, I don’t feel any different. Turning 18 is awkward. You’re an adult, but don’t get the legal right to do anything like an adult would. 

I looked up a list of things I can do now that I’m 18, and here are some of the highlights:

• Vote (this one’s important, I’ve already registered in advance)
• Play the lottery
• Enlist in the military (this also requires me to sign up for the Selective Service system)
• File a lawsuit
• Open a brokerage account/play the stock market
• Body modifications (piercings/tattoos) 
• Buy spraypaint
• Use a meat slicer working at the deli in a grocery store

Very fun! I’m glad to know I can get drafted to serve in the military at any time over the next eight years! But heaven forbid I buy a beer or smoke a joint (well, that second one is a rule for everyone, unfortunately).

Regardless, turning 18 is an important milestone in my life. It’s the marker that I am responsible for my own choices, and with that comes freedom and responsibility. 

I feel like I’ve gotten a slice of adulthood from being a part of this publication. I’ve had to deal with payroll, taxes, interviewing adults and writing to an adult audience. I’ve had a lot of fun with this job and plan on continuing providing quality journalism to the Hutchinson community through the rest of the school year and into the summer. 

I’ve also been told I act like an adult long, long before I actually became one. For example, I’m listening to “Rubber Soul” by The Beatles on vinyl as I write this. I picked it up from Permanent Records (not a plug for the store, but check it out if you’re into music!) and continue to pick up Beatles albums. They’re my favorite band. 

Here’s my Beatles (and their solo careers) collection as of now: 

• Rubber Soul (Beatles)
• Revolver (Beatles)
• Magical Mystery Tour (Beatles)
• White Album (Beatles)
• Abbey Road (Beatles)
• 1 (Beatles)
• The Beatles: 1967-1970 (Beatles)
• Red Rose Speedway (McCartney)
• Tug of War (McCartney)
• Ringo (Starr)
• Goodnight Vienna (Starr)
• Ringo’s Rotogravure (Starr)

You’d be surprised how many young people around my age listen to The Beatles. But, I bet most people would still associate them with the older generations.

As I prepare for college and living on my own, I’m looking forward to seeing what adulthood brings. It’s a huge step that I feel like I’m ready to successfully make.

Thank you for your support of The Hutchinson Tribune and of me. I’ve been very grateful for this opportunity, and I hope you continue supporting us and our mission of brining local news to our community.