Almost every college student takes up a job during the summer. Some work for a little extra spending money and some work to fill the three months between May and August. I work for both of these reasons, not because I have to, but because I want too. However, this doesn't mean that I had some frilly job that covered 20 hours of my week.

I worked as a nanny for two different special-needs families at 40-45 hours per week, and I'll be honest, this job wasn't easy. There were days I would leave after working 11 hours covered in blood, pee, sweat, and dirt- all of which were not mine.

There were countless meltdowns that left me with bruises, scratches, and an almost broken tooth. From a girl who doesn't cry over anything, I broke down twice out of frustration because the job just became too much. I called my mom at least three times a week just to vent about rude grandparents.

This job was a real test of my mental strength and patience.

But even through all this bad, I learned so much about myself and why I am studying to be a speech pathologist. This summer was like school, but in a different way. It wasn't an internship, but I learned outside of the classroom in real-life situations.

In just a few short days, I will be back in the classroom for only 3-4 hours a day, and then I'll be free to do what I want. I won't have to worry about one of my kids breaking their nose or jaw during a meltdown. The only worry I'll have is my when my next neuro paper is due.

The school year will be a break, and I am so looking forward to it. I'll actually get to talk to people my own age, and maybe even take a nap during the day!

I'll miss all my kids dearly and I will cherish all the good memories and laughs we had together. But, I am ready for a break from them.