Summer. A student of any age's favorite word, the word we all look forward to hearing once school starts in August and for the next nine months until it ends in May.
Once you hit college, summer is not something you just look forward to. It's more like something you need. Your classes are becoming too much and the long hours spent at the library are starting to really take a toll, not to mention that your brain is going to explode if you try and study for one more quiz, test, or final. As May starts to slowly creep in and you begin to finish your semester, you become so excited to get to go home. Finally, home. The place you've missed so much, maybe a little more than we'd all like to admit. But the thought of coming home and actually coming home aren't exactly the same.
Expectation: Yes, finally, I can sleep in and not have to worry about anything.
Reality: HA. If this isn't the biggest joke ever I don't know what is. We may be home from college but it sure doesn't seem like it. First of all, if your sleep schedule isn't all sorts of screwed up, I am jealous. But that's beside the point really. Once you start college, you are in it until you graduate. Working, applying for scholarships, applying/doing internships, summer classes, and the list goes on.
Expectation: I can't wait to see my family and spend time with them!
Reality: Well, you were gone for nine months. They had to get on with their lives too while I am sure they wish they could spend their days hanging out with you, they have things to do also. So don't be too upset when your parents have to work and your siblings have plans with their friends. They love you, they're just busy too.
Expectation: Coming home to your bedroom and it being just how you left it.
Reality: This one could be the worst. I am not sure many things are sadder than walking into your childhood bedroom and seeing how empty it is. Your clothes are gone, your pictures are taken off the walls and your faded Justin Bieber poster just doesn't seem the same. It felt like forever before you would have to leave your room and then suddenly you did, and now that you are back it almost feels like you are a stranger.
Expectation: You will hang out with all the people who went to different colleges.
Reality: You are all busy. You try so hard, but everyone works has internships and is traveling. You are so happy for them and that they're becoming successful and enjoying their summers but you also wish you would get to spend time together.
Although coming home from college may not be what I expected, I am still happy to be home and spending time with my family and friends I haven't seen (and the ones I have!), and I'm excited to see what this summer has in store.
