Do you remember your first few days of kindergarten? You were probably confused, alone, had no friends at first, and didn't want to leave your parents. Now that I've moved into college, I've realized that move-in day is exceptionally similar to the first day of elementary school in more ways than one.
1. You don't know what the hell is going on.
Why are there a bunch of people who look just confused as I am? What's going on? Why are my parents leaving? I don't know where anything in this school is. This is a nightmare.
2. You miss your bed.
The nap-time mats that they give you in kindergarten and the rock hard mattresses in college dorms don't come close to comfort of your big, comfy bed at home...especially when you're stressed.
3. Your parents cry, hug you, kiss you, and take TONS of pictures.
Dropping a child off at college or the first day of school is a very emotional experience for parents. Most parents can't bear the thought of their little baby growing up. They take hundreds of pictures throughout the day and post them on Facebook so all their online friends can relate to the excitement.
4. The dining hall/cafeteria food tastes nothing like the food at home does.
All you want is mom's food. You take it for granted when you're not away from home, but when you're eating mystery meat everyday, you start to appreciate home cooked meals much more than you did before.
5. You're all alone and have to make new friends.
Starting off with a blank slate can be scary, but a good opportunity. You can be whoever you want to be, but entering your new environment requires you to make friends. Being lonely is a scary thought.
6. And when you want to make a new friend, you're not quite sure how to.
"Do I ask them what their name is? Or what their favorite color is? What their middle name is? No, that's too creepy, I don't even know their first name yet. Should I offer them some fruit snacks or Goldfish as a peace offering?"
7. Sometimes, you may want to cry and get a little homesick.
Because everyone needs their parents sometimes. Yes, school is very fun, but you can get homesick. Sometimes you just want to scream, "I WANT MY MOM!"
8. Nap time is a thing. And it's necessary.
Naps aren't just for little kids. Naps in college are the real deal and sometimes are essential to make it through the day. So go ahead and doze for an hour or five...you deserve it.
9. The friends you make last a lifetime.
Whether it's kindergarten or college, the friends you make there will last a lifetime. It's such a pivotal moment in your life, and having a friend by your side is very important...they could be your homie forever.
