It is safe to say college is not always about dorm decorating, football game tailgates, and fraternity parties. While these are all aspects of the college experience, there are many other factors that come along with the total package. For most of us, it is our first time away from home for an extended period of time. It’s our first time sharing a bedroom with a roommate and bathroom with fifteen girls that live on our hall. It’s our first time staying up all night studying to still get a C on a major exam. College is truly the best, but there are times when it’s nice to have an escape. For me, keeping in touch with my high school best friends has made a world of difference. Here are just a few of the reasons why I encourage everyone to reach out to their high school friends during the chaos and stress of college.

1. They knew you even when you didn't fully know yourself.

They have been by your side during some of your best and worst times. It’s easy to be your true self around them. They know your life story, secrets, heartbreaks, triumphs, and embarrassing moments. I have found through college thus far it’s important to consult my lifelong friends when making important decisions. College is all about discovering who you are and it is refreshing to get an opinion from someone outside the campus bubble. Late night Facetime’s easily became a highlight of my week.

2. Distance is not as difficult as it may seem.

Although you have all moved all over the country and made dozens of new friends, you will always cherish memories you have shared together. Living separate lives now is not as bad as it sounds. In fact, it has proven to be just as exciting for my group. In high school, you spent hours every day with these people. Now, you are lucky if you talk a few times a week. This leads to long conversations and excitement over hearing even the smallest and craziest details of their new lives away from home.

3. It will make time at home a lot more enjoyable.

After spending a year in college, I worried about summer vacation. I’ve had my favorite people just down the hall and across the quad from me for nine months. How would I ever survive three months at home? Although summers in college quickly become all about working and internships, it’s nice knowing you can call your high school friends to have lunch or grab coffee every week or so. They will help to make the time before school returns a lot more entertaining.

Although I love staying in touch with my high school friends, it’s important to branch out as well. I have met the most amazing people in college and cannot wait to continue making new friendships. It is nice knowing though that I have people all over the country who have my back and are supporting me, from both high school and college. I encourage everyone to make lots of new connections but always remember the old ones too.