As I'm writing this, I'm on an Amtrak back home from my first semester of sophomore year. As my train barrels down the east coast, I can't help but reflect on how different going home for winter break this year feels from last year.

Last year, I couldn't wait to go home, but it wasn't just because I was excited to see my family and friends. I couldn't wait to go home because I couldn't wait to be back in a place where I felt like I belonged. I had had a very hard first semester last year, and I went home, it felt like a weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. When I was in the train station, knowing my next stop was home felt like a dream come true. I had wondered if this is what college would be like, a constant itch to go home, but what I've come to realize is that while no, going home doesn't always bring this same intensity of emotion, the desire to go home is still there, which is completely okay.

I had always thought that going to college meant you never wanted to leave, and for many people that is the case. I have plenty of friends that talk about how much they want to go back to school whenever they're home for break, and last year it would make me feel like there was something wrong with me or my school for not agreeing.

So, where is this article going you ask? I'll tell you. After talking with friends about this and after assessing both my home and school lives I've come to the conclusion that, for those of you that love going home as well, home really is where the heart is. There's no feeling quite like coming home to family after going through all of the stress of finals week, let alone a whole semester of homework, projects, and exams. It's completely normal to be excited to rejoin the familiarity of family life and friendships that you've had for years. Spending time with family and friends after being at school for months can provide the perfect amount of rest and relaxation you may need. Some people enjoy being at home, and others don't, it doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you either way.

Yes, school should be an environment where you feel happy and comfortable, but that doesn't mean you can't love home just as much. Whether you're excited to go home or not, have a happy and safe break, and enjoy your time at home, because it really can feel good to be back.