I was the girl who swore she was taking off for college and not looking back. I truly thought I was ready to immerse myself in everything that college had to offer... which for some reason meant not going home often. I was ready to be miss independent who could do it all on her own.

However, it didn't take long for me to realize how much I missed my parents, my boyfriend, and my little hometown. I found my university friends would often give me a hard time for wanting to go back home. To that, I agree you should stay on campus for the majority of weekends; but here are 8 things your home has that makes leaving campus worth it from time-to-time.

1. Food

You know I'm right. There is no better feeling than coming home to that full pantry/fridge after eating peanut butter for the past few meals; as your bank account said grocery shopping was not an option.

And to go right along with number 1...

2. Home-Cooked Meals

Again- I am spot on. Fresh grilled chicken and broccoli never tasted better. Even now that I have a meal plan through my sorority, (meaning I'm not eating peanut butter and protein bars for each meal anymore), I still don't take a mom-cooked meal for granted.

3. Your Bed

Yes, while your twin sized dorm bed-with sheets that haven't been washed once this semester-can be heaven when you're in desperate need of a nap, it doesn't compare to your heavenly bed at home. Jumping into it's fresh, clean, silky sheets is a feeling that is truly indescribable.

4. Your Own Bathroom

No matter how much you may love your roommate or suitemates, it's nice knowing you can shower whenever you won't wake anyone when it's 2 am and you've gotta go, and when you have an upset stomach... you don't feel rushed or guilty.

5. Your Pet(s)

I am not ashamed to admit that I have face-timed my pup before. It's hard when you go months without seeing your fluffy companion. Besides, the excitement they have when you do come home is the best.

6. That Comfy Place You Always Go To

Whether it's a special spot in your backyard, a local coffee shop, or even a backroad you loved to drive down when you needed to clear your head- nothing can replace it.

7. The Beach

Like I said I am from Florida, so a lot of my favorite memories are beach days. I loved driving over with family and hanging out for the afternoon, the spontaneous night trips I took with my best friend to watch the sunset and grab ice cream, and mainly the feeling of nostalgia that came along with the familiar sandy shores.

8. The Best Company...duh.

Of course, I saved the best for last.

During high school, I didn't think I was going to miss my family as much as I do now that I'm actually in college. My mom is my very best friend and being able to catch up for hours on end, and spend quality time with my parents is truly the best part about coming home.

I am not saying you should go home every weekend- staying up on campus for the weekends is how you establish a lot of your friends- and it's what makes campus truly feel like home... but from time-to-time just know that the 3 or 4-hour drive is always worth it when you've got those 8 things waiting for you.