Once you've moved away for college, it's always an odd sensation to return home. I've especially noticed this since returning home last week for a desperately-needed break from the stress of school. I decided to write down some of the more glaring differences I noticed while being away from my dorm room. And if you're a college student, I'm sure you'll be able to relate.
1. Wow, it's so nice to take a shower without wearing shoes!
Though it's certainly a necessity while on campus due to various unsightly aspects of sharing a shower with 20+ girls, it was nice to go home and not have to wear dingy flip flops. And on that note...
2. I can't believe I get to have my own bathroom again!
There's nothing worse than waking up a little late for your first class of the day, dashing to the bathroom for a shower when you desperately need to wipe off all your study grime, and have not only every shower but even every sink, completely taken.
3. Cooked food... bring on the sophomore 75!
My parents very sweetly planned to make all my favorite foods for when I came home. Nothing compares to homemade dishes, especially after months of dining hall mystery meat.
4. ...shouldn't I be studying?
The weirdest sensation of all is realizing that you've finished finals and now there is nothing left for you to do.
5. Seriously, there must be some final piece of homework I have to do.
Even a week later, I'm constantly checking email and Canvas thinking there is some assignment that I should be doing.
6. I get to read for fun again!
After the shock of realizing all my homework is turned in, my grades are posted and my textbooks are now useless, now comes the exciting idea that you can do whatever you want again! In my case, I get to read whatever I want, whenever I want and for how long I want to!
7. Now I can binge watch all those new shows everyone is talking about.
On my personal to-watch list is: "Game of Thrones," "The Handmaid's Tale," and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" (season two).
8. I miss my friends.
Despite all the allures of home, the withdrawals that come from leaving your friends (who you spent every waking minute with for months) are a little harsh at first.
9. Christmas is coming!!!
Even though I listened to the Michael Bublé Christmas album every day while I crammed for finals, the Christmas season didn't seem real until I came home. Now, I wake up every day to a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, lots of presents and a nice warm fireplace.
10. Wow, climate control is a real thing.
OK, this is a weird one, but my dorm room thermostat was more of a prop than an actual controller. My room was always either too hot or too cold and fluctuated nonstop. But now, if you set the house to a certain temperature, it actually stays that way! Genius!
11. This caffeine addiction I've got is kind of unnecessary now.
It's the time of year to start weaning yourself off the coffee addiction you picked up those past few months. Good luck, and maybe try decaf!
12. Now what do I do with myself?
The constant relaxation can be a little boring after a while. This winter, to avoid the question "What should I do now?" that will drive your parents crazy, make a list of hobbies and activities you can do!
13. Nap time!
Make sure you're getting even more than the usual eight or nine hours of sleep. Try to take a nap every couple of days in order to really maximize the ability to rejuvenate and destress yourself.
14. Treat yo self!
Whether you splurge with visits to the spa or else resort to the soothing face masks and bubble baths, make sure to take care of YOU this holiday season.
15. It's so good to be home!
Enjoy these few weeks in your own bed, surrounded by your people and taking part in your own holiday traditions.
Coming home after a semester at school is almost like seeing your house and your family for the first time. Have a great six weeks home, and most importantly, just relax!
