Life is full of surprises. Chances are that once in a while you will get a very unpleasant one that could really turn your day around. We all had our fair share of awful surprises, but the worst are when you find them in your own humble abode. Let me share four things I would hate to find in my room.

One of these unpleasant surprises occurred to me April 15. I just came back from class and was cleaning up the pile of clothes I had thrown all over my bed from getting ready earlier–a daily routine of mine. When I picked up a sweater I saw eight black legs scurrying away into the pile of clothes. Naturally, having arachnophobia, I shrieked and ran for my roommate. She too is terrified of spiders and most insects, but I found some reassurance with her company in the event the spider would make another appearance. Creepy insects disappearing in a room is definitely something I hate.

Now imagine you are walking to your room when you notice the NIU police knocking on your door. This definitely could turn your day into a series of unfortunate events. They are looking for you; your car has just been towed. Now you have to find the ludicrous amount of money to get your car back. “I wish the police were waiting for me when I got out of class,” said no one ever.

And while I don’t mind the geese on campus–as long as they stay a safe distance away from me–I would hate to find one in my room. I would probably open my door to find a goose had gotten in through the window and trashed my entire room. I’d probably walk back out in disbelief. I might even have to take one last look at my worldly possessions before trying to wrestle this wild goose. How would I even trap it? Scratch my statement from earlier: I would call the NIU police and tell them to meet me outside my room.

Another surprise I hope to never find in my room is an incoherent stranger passed out in my bed. I have heard stories of such occurrences and would hate to find someone who appears to be under some sort of influence that would lead them to such a situation. I would have to go through that uncomfortable poking in an attempt to awake them from their slumber and question how they got in my room before helping them find their own bed.

Unpleasant surprises come in many shapes and sizes, often with no notice, and they vary in severity. That is just part of our beautiful lives, and so I must leave you with this little piece of advice. Expect the unexpected and try not to let it ruin your day.