Growing up, college had always been my goal. Though through the years my dream school and major changed frequently, and not going at all was never an option. Along with that goal, I also dreamed of moving to the west coast after graduating. When I got to high school, I decided that even though I was desperate to move away, I would do so gradually. This meant staying in state for college and then moving completely. That is how I found myself in Bridgewater, last fall. It was perfect; I was far enough from home so that I could experience an independent life, but close enough that I could go home whenever I needed to. Sure, there were times I felt homesick, but overall I loved it.
Ironically enough, it was not until I moved home for the summer that I really felt the effects of moving away. When I got back to Boston, I realized how much I had missed the fast paced nature of the city, as well as being able to get anywhere easily. Above all, though, I missed the unique atmosphere. Being away taught me how to appreciate the historic spots that, growing up, I had mostly just thought of as tourist traps. Feeling that appreciation lead to my determination to immerse myself in the best Boston had to offer while I could. To do this, I got a job working on Harbor Tours on Boston Harbor with Massachusetts Bay Lines. I got to spend my days and nights on the water, enjoying the view of the Boston skyline and teaching out of towners about the city's history. Though I was mostly the one doing the teaching, it also taught me a lot, and I am very grateful for that experience.
The city itself was not the only thing that I gained a greater appreciation for. I also gained one for my home, itself. Being at college, while an amazing experience that I would never give up, can take a lot out of a person. After all of the work you do during the weeks before and during finals, all you want to do at the end is hug your mom or dad. At least I know that was where I stood. Also, there are only so many times you can eat at Tilly, ECC, Bears Den, and Crimson before you are desperate for a home cooked meal. For me, that was my dad's steak and my mom's fried chicken. However, having said that, all BSU students should feel lucky that they have so many different dining hall options.
For those of you with siblings, you will never appreciate them more than when you go away to school. Even if you have the best roommate in the world, they will never come close to matching living with your brothers and sisters. Being the only girl with three younger brothers, I thought I was ready to finally live with other girls. It turned out that living with boys is a whole lot easier than living with girls. And it will not be just you missing them; they will miss you, too -- even if they don't say it to you.
Freshmen beginning school, now, probably cannot wait to get away from home and move into their dorm, but appreciate home while you still can. I still plan on moving far away, someday, but I know that I will always come back. My heart will always belong to the place I grew up in, and I am sure that is true for most people.
