A year and a half ago- I was 24. Other than my bad reaction to percocet, it wasn't too bad. The sore throat was only barely worse than what I got when I had severe tonsilitis.
A few tips-- keep water with you at all times. You also may want a humidifier. If your throat gets dry, that's when it hurts the most.
Carnation instant breakfast-- meal supplements. It has all the vitamins and nutrients you need, so your body can heal faster. It's also yummy chocolate or other flavors so you will be able to convince yourself to drink it.
Ice cream was actually too cold for me, but mcdonalds milkshakes also felt wonderful. Oh- and pudding

It was worth it for me. I do still get minor sore throats if I get a bad cold, but it's barely noticeable compared to what I used to get!