Since school started, I have gotten the question "Well what's it like to be an out of state student?" I thought I would answer that question once and for all.

1. You call your parents at least once a day.

When I say at least I mean it. In the past week I am pretty sure I've talked to my dad or mom at least three times a day. Talking on the phone is one of our only forms of communication and when you live 9 hours away there's a lot to share. You become way more interested in family gossip because any little thing that reminds you of home makes you smile.

2. Skype dates are like mini-visits home.

I can't tell you how many times I've asked my mom to Skype just so I can see my dogs. Sometimes all you need is a reminder of home. Skype is also a great way to keep up with your niece and nephews as they grow up. I forgot how great it is to be able to see someone when you're talking and have it feel like you're there.

3. You don't understand local references.

There have been so many times I have been utterly confused while talking to people from around here. Thanks to them I now know Amish Country and Grandpa's Cheese Barn. Every time I hear something that I don't understand I now say to myself, "That must be an Ohio thing."

4. Mail from home is the best thing ever.

Okay, this may be every college student, but when you're out of state it's even better. Whenever I go to my mailbox and find a card it makes my day. Whether it be from a friend, my mom, or one of my grandparents I never stop smiling the rest of the day.

5. You find out you really do have an accent.

Before coming to school I never once thought I had an accent. Until one day someone looked at me and asked me to say Wisconsin. Apparently, I say it funny. It's pretty interesting to figure out all the things we say differently.

6. Your dorm becomes your home away from home.

This small room becomes the place you spend the majority of your time, so why not make it feel like home. Here I am surrounded by pictures of my friends and family and things I love that remind me of home.

7. You appreciate your friends and family more than ever.

You never really appreciate what you have until it isn't there - at least physically. I appreciate all the wonderful people who raised me and turned me into the person I am today. Even though I am so far away they make me feel like I am with them every day. They support me in everything I do and I am so lucky to have them.

8. Most of all you miss your home.

I would be lying if I said I didn't miss it. The truth is I miss it so very much. But that's the great thing about homes. No matter how far away you go, you will always feel the pull that makes you want to go back.

Going to college out of state was the hardest, but the best decision I have ever made. I have grown as a person because of it. I can't wait to return home and bring with me everything I have learned.