My first semester of college was definitely one of the hardest times of my life. There was so much change and so much to get used to and I felt overwhelmed almost 24/7. Now that it's over and I've had a chance to relax at home for a month, I am so ready to go back for another semester.

I didn't think I would miss people I've only known since August but honestly, I miss them almost as much as I missed home when I left. Being home for Christmas had reminded me that I made the right choice when I chose Ole Miss, and I can't wait to be back next week. Here are just a few things I can't wait for.

1. Freedom (again)

It's so weird having to ask my parents for permission to go eat with my friends because, at school, I just come and go as I please and don't have to report to anyone. Although my parents never really say no to me going out, I still have to tell them my plans and schedule around theirs, which is so not what I'm used to.

2. Having my friends around all the time

At school, all I have to do is walk down the hall and I'm instantly surrounded by my best friends. At home, my friends and I have to call each other and plan when to hang out because obviously none of them live down the hall from me. Don't get me wrong, I've loved having alone time and just staying in bed all day not having to see people, but I definitely miss seeing my friends every day, even if it's just passing by their room and saying "hey".

3. Having a daily routine

I never knew this about myself, but over break, I've learned that I thrive off of a daily routine. Even though at school I don't do the exact same thing every day, I still have a structure in my life that I don't have at home. I miss eating at the same time every day and having someplace to be. It was nice to have a break and get to sleep all day every day, but I'm over it now.

4. Starbucks

Yes, I do have a Starbucks at home in Atlanta, but it's not just a quick walk away and I can't use my school Flex money on it. Coffee definitely got me through some hard days last semester and it's weird not having my Tall Caramel Mocha and buttered Croissant as often as I did.

5. Parties

No, I'm not crazy and a definitely don't go out every night, but I miss getting together with my girlfriends and spending time getting ready for whichever frat party we choose to go to that night. Spring semester means spring parties which equal double the fun, and I can't wait to start going out again.

Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love being home and spending time with my family and best friends here, but I really do miss Oxford, Mississippi a lot more than I thought. Maybe it's because Ole Miss has this super long winter break so all of my friends have already gone back to school, or maybe I really do just love Ole Miss. All I know is that I'm counting down the days until I'm back with my favorite people.