College is great. There’s nothing quite like experiencing the independence away from home --the freedom, the friendships, the school spirit, and everything in between. But no matter how much fun you may be having in college, there’s always something special about coming back home. Those at-home perks that you once took for granted are now seen a whole new light.
Here are just a few things you look forward to when you come back:
1. Food.
Whether you’re barely surviving off your school’s meal plan, you’re left grocery shopping on a broke-college-student’s budget, and/or your cooking skills aren’t necessarily up to par, a home-cooked meal has a special place in all of our hearts stomachs. Being able to sit down at the dinner table and fill up your plate with freshly-cooked, delicious food sure beats the inedible cafeteria-style meals served at the dining hall or the bagel bites you threw in the microwave. Making a trip to the kitchen and grazing the fully-stocked pantry and fridge for a guilt-worthy midnight snack is a privilege, especially compared to the late nights in your dorm where an old granola bar is the only cure for your grumbling stomach.
2. Your own bed.
Chances are, your bed at home is a lot comfier than that cardboard of a mattress you sleep on at school—the memory foam pad on top can only help so much. And if you downgraded to a twin bed or a squeaky bunk bed when you left for school, coming home can only mean one thing: you’re about to get the best sleep of your life.
3. Privacy.
Everyone needs their alone time once in a while, but in college where you’re constantly surrounded by thousands of students, it can be hard to find. Being able to sit in your own room or go out in the backyard unbothered can be just the pick-me-up needed to relax and recollect.
4. Convenient showers.
No more shower shoes! One of the weirdest things about coming home after being in the dorms for a while is definitely taking a shower barefoot. The first time is almost uncomfortable—wearing flip flops has become a habit. Showering in your own bathroom at home is a dream. No need to carry around a shower catty while awkwardly walking through the hallways in a robe with sopping hair. Not to mention the option for a nice, warm bubble bath without feeling the need to disinfect the entire tub with bleach beforehand. How nice!
5. Family.
Sometimes your family can be a little much, as most of us can admit. But at the end of the day, these are the people who love you unconditionally, no matter what. Being away from them can give you a whole new understanding and love for what they do for you and the relationships that you share. So when you are reunited, make sure to appreciate all the little moments spent together.
6. Pets.
Pets are part of the family, hands down. Getting to see your furry friend’s tail wag and their eyes light up with excitement as soon as they see you is priceless. Their warm embrace and slobbery kisses are a good reminder that it’s nice to be back.
College is a place to enjoy yourself, but it’s also what gives you a newfound appreciation for what there is to offer back home -- good food, a comfy bed, privacy, clean showers, and your loved ones.
I guess home really is where the heart is.
