Move-in day is always emotional whether you're the one crying or Mom and Dad are. I've never been more than about 3 miles away from my family- and even if I had been, I knew I would been returning within a few hours. If you're like any normal high school student you literally count down the days till you're finally on your own and they're out of your hair. You'd often start fights about how you're "18" and finally a big bad adult and they need to start treating you like one. But I can guarantee you, being treated like a baby is much better than having to cook your own meals and wake yourself up every morning.

I come from a pretty close-knit family, all of the children in my family have grown up to be college graduates, and they succeeded and got through it but neither of them are as emotional as I am. I cried a lot, maybe too much the first week of college because I missed my Mommy and Daddy, and just wanted to be home and in my own bed. I didn't want to be independent like before, I wanted my parents to be there to help me through this crazy coaster, and of course they were just 15 miles away from me instead (I know, some people have it much harder). I was always told from the minute I picked a college that no matter what they were always a phone call or a text away. I believed them, but sometimes it doesn't do the justice as a hug and a kiss would do.

I learned so much about family and the bond that I have with each and every one of them but I honestly don't think I would've learned that if I stayed home for college. You literally learn how much they do for you and learn to not take them for granted. You learn that in the long run, family are you best supporters-they're rooting for you and I can promise you that they won't ever stop. You learn the value that each of them have.

My Dad, always there to crack jokes or talk about school with. My Mom, always there to talk about the drama I have or help me through my relationships. They both help keep me mentally stable. My brothers, always there to help me with classes or make fun of me when I need a laugh. My dog, where can I start? Provides me with unconditional love and never gets annoyed at the love I give her. There's so much more that they do for me and I get overcome with happiness when I realize just how lucky I am to have them.