Dear Mom and Dad,

Ever since I was a little girl, you both always stressed that I would go away to college someday. You valued education and wanted me to experience what you both got to, the quote "college experience." You knew that someday I would leave the nest and venture out on my own at college. I want to thank you for pushing me to get good grades in elementary school, junior high, and most importantly, high school. You set the bar high and wanted me to achieve my best.

That "someday" I'd go away to college approached faster than we could have imagined. Years turned into a few months, and then into a few days. Before we knew it, you were helping me buy last minute dorm essentials at Bed Bath & Beyond and helping me pack the car. I was so excited and couldn't wait to hit the road and start my college adventure. As we pulled out of our driveway, the last thing on my mind was how much I was going to miss our home.

When we got to campus, we unloaded all of my things and you helped me set up my dorm room. We smiled and laughed as we made the empty room into my new home. It hadn't hit me yet that in a few short hours, I would be on my own. After my room was set up and we attended the Freshman meeting, it was time to say our goodbyes. Looking back, I now realize how terrible it must have felt for you to leave your little girl by herself. Here I was getting to start a new, exciting chapter of my life while you had to return to an emptier life at home. The emptiness and worry you felt leaving me there makes me sad and I wish I could be at home and at college simultaneously. My first goodbye from you was hard, but your first goodbye from me was even harder. As you drove away teary eyed, you knew I'd be okay and were excited for me. Goodbyes are always hard and they always will be that way.

I want you both to know that I am doing okay on my own. Each and every day is a learning experience. I always try to remember the values and lessons you taught me growing up when I make my own decisions. Sometimes I get homesick and I miss being with you. I miss family dinners and spending time together. I miss having my fan club at all my soccer games. And I miss your hugs and seeing your faces everyday. Being on my own has been great for me though, because now I am more independent. I have so many responsibilities here, and I hope I continue to make you proud.

I look forward to the times you visit me. I love introducing you to my friends and bragging that you are coming. And I enjoy my bittersweet breaks back at home. The weird thing is is that my actual home has become just a house and my real home is away at school.

Thank you mom and dad for helping me reach this exciting milestone in my life. I wouldn't be away at college if it wasn't for you providing for me and supporting me through this journey. Thank you for letting me FaceTime you when I get homesick and vent to you when I am mad at my professors. Finally, thank you for always loving me and helping me with anything and everything. I love you both.

Love,

Me, still your little girl.