As a college freshman, I don't get a lot of time think. With all of the work that has be to done, it's hard to even get some sleep. But when I have those five minutes of grace, I often reminisce about the simpler times, like senior year. I now realize that for me, it went by super quickly. I never really stopped and thought about how much I would miss everything until now. Just so you get the gist of it, here are some things you might take advantage of.
1. Your Family
It's going to kill your family to watch their child go to college. Even if you're not the first one, it still weird for them. They want to spend as much time with you as they can. So when you think it's OK to miss a family dinner or gathering, just remember these people are going to miss you as much as anyone else.
2. Your Best Friends
It's obvious that you're going to keep in touch after high school, but it's going to become harder to do so. Everything you'll be experiencing, from work to extracurriculars and more, will take up all your time (you'll be a busy bee). So don't have stupid little fights and drama-filled conversations. Focus on each other and make your last year the best one yet.
3. Your Pets
Not seeing these little, amazing critters your first week of college will kill you. But not as much as it's going to kill them. Just remember to play with them, walk them and spend more time with them. You're their best friends, and it won't hurt to.
4. Your High School
OK, hear me out. It may not seem like it now, but you're going to miss some people you went to school with. You're also going to miss the school events. It's fun when you have something to look forward to, like sporting events, school dances and even graduating. Missing the small stuff isn't a terrible thing.
5. Your Favorite Teachers
These people are the ones you trust the most. These are the people who let you eat in class, hand in assignments late and even walk in a little late. College is not like high school. No one is going to hold your hand and give extensions because you were too lazy to do it. This is a time to be serious in your life and really succeed; these teachers are willing to help if you're willing to do so.
6. Your Favorite Foods
Since you're so used to home-cooked meals everyday, you don't understand the struggle yet. There comes a time when a college student can actually tolerate the food at school, but nothing beats the time when you're finally home from a long and stressful semester, and your mom, the best chef in the world, hands you a plate of your favorite food. It's like watching a little kid open a Christmas present they have been wanting their whole life. The first bite is always the best.
7. Your Free Time
Say goodbye to your free time because college is about to do you dirty. You're not going to have a lot of time to see friends, eat or even to take a shower. Just be prepared for eight hours of homework a day.
Even though college is something everyone should be looking forward to, you're still allowed to miss home. So the next time you say, "I can't wait to get the hell out of here!" or "College is going to be way better than this place," just think about what you're leaving behind. You're leaving behind your life, and you're recreating a new one. Whatever was there to help you through the tough stuff will always be there. Don't take it for granted.
