I love college. The people, the experiences, the classes — all of these things and more have added up to create the perfect environment for me. When I have to leave Champlain College for any reason, I always feel a pang of sadness. There’s so much here that I love, so much that makes me happy, but spring break reminded me of a rather important factor in my life: my house in Elmore, Vermont.

Whether you love college or you don’t, it’s crucial that you go home every once and awhile.

Home has people and experiences that enhance your life in a way that is different than college, but just as valuable. At home, you are reminded of family love. Once you enter your own house again, you finally remember what it is like to be cared for by your mom when you’re sick. She’ll tell you that she loves you, give you a hug and you’ll garner that nostalgic glow of childhood. In college, you’re trying to take care of yourself and be an adult so often, it’s a breath of fresh air just to have your mom help you out. Your mom gives you love, and she helps you relax.

Home has your pets. Yes, you can pet the puppies that pass your dorm on the weekends, or go to the therapy dogs that come every once and awhile, but there is nothing like being able to hold your own pets. You know that the affection they are giving you is a deep rooted love that comes from years of each other’s company — not just a burst of “who are you” from a strange dog wagging its tail. Your pets — your dogs, your cats — are old friends; a friendship that satisfies you more than another animal could.

Home has experiences. While I was home, my mother and I went sledding on trashcan lids, saw a play, made cookies together, and found a giant stuffed whale at the grocery store that I named Steven. I wouldn’t have these memories or a gargantuan stuffed whale sitting in my dorm if I hadn’t gone home. I wouldn’t have these memories to look back upon and smile.

Of course I missed college while I was in Elmore. I missed my boyfriend terribly, I missed my friends and my roommate, and I even missed my rock-hard twin extra long. Though, there’s a benefit to both being at college and being at home. We learn from both, and we gain happiness from both.