Now don't get me wrong, I really love where I go to school. I love walking around the beautiful campus, and I totally live for the view of the lake from my dorm room window. I completely adore everything about Ithaca—from the gorges, to the Commons, to the nightlife here. Most importantly, I would be no one without the friends I've made here. But when midterms roll around every October and my planner is filled with exams, papers and projects with quickly approaching deadlines, all I want is to pack up my car and head home for a little rest and relaxation. Here's some of the reasons why I can't wait to go home for fall break.

1. The food

We all know that there's nothing better than a home-cooked meal. While Sodexo has stepped up its game this year, nothing can compare to a warm meal cooked by your mom or dad.

2. Pets

Missing a pet sucks because you can't pick up the phone and call them like you would your parents or a friend. Being reunited with your furry friend is one of the best parts of going home. So curl up with them on the couch and make sure to send out a lot of Snapchats of their cute faces.

3. Family

Phone calls just aren't doing the job anymore. After weeks of stress and studying, it feels great to be surrounded by the ones you love. Spend some time with your siblings, hangout with your parents, or visit your grandma. They probably missed you even more than you missed them.

4. Showering without shoes

... Enough said.

5. Free time

Most students are constantly running from class to clubs meetings to sports practice, all while finding the time to do homework, eat meals and engage in hobbies they enjoy. Sometimes it feels like there just aren't enough hours in a day. So take this opportunity to sleep in late, lounge around in your pajamas all day and binge watch a show on Netflix (I suggest "Stranger Things" or the latest season of "Law and Order SVU").

6. Alone time

Living with your best friend is like a slumber party 24/7, but it can get tiring living in close quarters with hundreds of other students in your building. A short break like this is a perfect way to recharge your batteries and spend some time with yourself, without getting too bored. And think of how excited you'll be to see your college friends when you return to campus!

7. Seeing hometown friends

Absence makes the heart grow fonder. It's always great to catch up with old friends to share laughs and stories about the time you've spent away from each other.

8. The feeling when you return back to school

Whenever I leave school, even if it's only for a few days, I always return to campus super excited to be back and reunite with my friends. The feeling that I get when I see that Ithaca College sign reminds me that I'm not just going back to school, I'm going back to my second home.