It seems as if all we do at home is complain about wanting to be back at school. I’m thrilled to be heading back soon, but the feeling is still a little bittersweet. The older you get, the less home feels homey, and your college town truly becomes the home you crave. College is great and I’ve missed it more than anything this summer, but there are some things at school that just can’t compare to the charm of your hometown.
Home friends.
I love my college friends, but my home friends have been there through it all—the awkward middle school phase, getting our licenses, going to prom; basically every life milestone possible. You can’t replace the memories and inside jokes you have with your friends from home, and it’s amazing to be back around people that you’ve grown up with.
Favorite restaurants.
Nothing at school can quite compare to going to trivia every Tuesday night at your favorite taco place. Although there is a Chipotle on campus, will it ever really be the same as the hometown joint where the cashier knows your name?
Parents cooking/cleaning/doing your laundry.
The beautiful part about being home is waking up at noon and having lunch waiting for you just down a flight of stairs. No walking to the dining hall or even lifting a finger. Also, you never have to group text your parents to ask if they want to eat dinner with you.
Your dog.
You never have to watch television alone and always have someone to finish your dinner. It’s still amazing to have someone so excited for you to come home everyday, unlike your roommate was.
Knowing the streets like the back of your hand.
It’s nice not having to open Google maps anytime you want to go somewhere.
Your house.
Having so much space to call your own is fantastic. You never realize how much you miss your basement until you try fitting ten people into a dorm room.
Having a kitchen/stocked fridge.
No more having to go next door to heat up your mac n’ cheese. Having (almost) unlimited food to your disposal is great, and even when you don’t, just hop in your car (not Uber) and go drive thru.
Shopping with your mom.
I shop like no other at school, which also means everything I buy must be with my own money. Shopping with mom is great. She appreciates your company that much more since you’re only home for so long, and she definitely doesn’t mind spending her money on you.
College is great—more freedom and more fun, but sometimes, it’s good to be home.
