College life is amazing— anyone can attest to it. And let’s be honest, the only thing that actually got you through high school was knowing that in four years you were going to leave and go to a college as far away from home as possible (but most likely in-state because, hello, tuition!). Now that you are in college, you can’t really imagine being anywhere else; you know where you belong. But, every once and a while, you feel a pang of longing that draws you back to the one place you know you can always return to— home.
- Family
The number one thing I miss about home is my family. My family and I are extremely close. The handful of times I actually get to go home and see them has made me appreciate all that they have done for me even more.
- Friends
Where there is family, there are friends. College has made me realize how much I took seeing my friends in high school every day for granted. The high school friends that do want to see you when you come home will keep in touch while you are away at school.
- Pets
The one thing that stinks about college… NO PETS! I miss snuggling up and adventuring outside with my pets. Honestly, I am sometimes more excited to see my pets than my family when I go home.
- Your Bed
I am not going to lie, there is something special about going home and sleeping in your own bed, in your own room. It could be all in my head, but I am positive that I get a better night of sleep when I am home. Why do I go home? To sleep.
- Home Cooked Meals
I don’t live in a dorm anymore, which means that I also don’t rely on the university to provide me food anymore. So, I have to cook for myself daily. I am not a bad cook, and I enjoy making dinner; but because I am always short of time, it is a hassle. I miss sitting at the dinner table with my family and enjoying home cooked dinners while making really cheesy jokes. The best part of it all is that I get to go home for home cooked meals and come back to school with the leftovers. Meals for days!
- Driving a Car
I never get to drive a car in Madison, ever. Not very many people on campus have cars. And let me say, the ones that do are the lucky ones. Unfortunately, since the majority of students on campus, like myself, don’t have cars, going home and having to ability to drive a car is a luxury. It is amazing how much faster you can get from place to place when you are driving.
There is nothing wrong with missing home while you are away at college. However, remember to live in the moment and enjoy where you are now. No matter where you go, your home will always be waiting for you when you return.