1. My own bed

No matter how many blankets I throw on my bed, or how comfortable my mattress pad is, my bed at school will never be as cozy as my bed at home.

2. My own shower

Aside from seeing my family, friends, and dogs, the one thing I look forward to the most about going home is being able to shower without flip flops.

3. My kitchen

As much as I love dining hall food, nothing beats being able to walk downstairs with no pants on to make pancakes.

4. My gym at home

Fact: 99% of my awkward interactions at school happen at the gym.

5. Being able to drive wherever, whenever

I’ve always enjoyed driving and it was quite odd to transition from using my car every single day to using it once every couple weeks at school.

6. My dogs

One of my favorite parts about going home is that first reunion with my dogs (although I really don’t miss my clothes being constantly covered in dog hair).

7. My friends at home

I am extremely thankful to have such a solid support system of friends back home. Even though we’re spread out across the country, our group chat is still bumpin’.

8. My friends at school

From movie nights to frat parties to everything in between, my friends at school have made my first year all the better (sometimes I forget I’ve only known them for a few months).

9. My brother

I absolutely love having my brother on campus, especially since we’re both far from home. He’s encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and has introduced me to some great people along the way. (Also s/o to him for letting me use his kitchen to bake cookies and lending me Tide pods whenever I run out!!)

10. My parents

I could go on and on about my parents, but I’ll make it brief. From hours on FaceTime to holiday-themed care packages, my parents never fail to make me smile. I cannot thank them enough for the endless support and for allowing me the freedom to make both decisions and mistakes.