My junior year of college is the beginning of a lot of new experiences. Besides basic things like being an upper classmen, a lot is changing this year. I've left the comfort of campus housing for my first college house lease.

To start, I LOVE living so much more cheaply. I'm saving so much by living in my four-bedroom house. It's nice to have a place that is yours for the year. I love being able to decorate and make the house my own.

There are a few minor setbacks with owning a college home. First, they are dingy compared to campus housing. My basement leaks, no garbage disposal, and WE HAVE NO AC. I've lost a lot of luxuries, but it is worth it.

Moreover, this is my first time I'm purchasing a smaller meal plan. Believe it or not, I'm actually excited to cook. My meals will be healthier and I'm saving myself so much money in the long run.

Oh, I also have crazy neighbors, I have a group of older men who like to wonder onto my back porch and knock late at night. I also have some Children of the Corn-esque neighbors that use my backyard as their own personal highway.

Besides my living conditions, I'm finally in classes that relate closely to my major. It's so great learning about things that you're passionate about. Even though the classes are 'harder' I feel a sense of refreshment in them. My building block classes have me ready for all of the new challenges that I will face in and out of the classroom.

In addition, I'm now finally realizing I'm halfway through college. It feels like I just started. I'm indifferent on my emotions of this, but I'm happy I still have some time to enjoy. Junior year is going to bring so many new things my way and I'm eager to conquer the new challenges I face.