Being a freshman in college, I graduated from high school less than a year ago, even though it feels like centuries. When I graduated, I was one of the people that couldn't wait to leave high school, and begin my new life in college. However, I definitely miss a few things about my high school, and because of those reasons, I go to visit my high school anytime I come home. You may ask what reasons would make me want to travel back in time in a certain way? Well don’t worry, I’ll tell you.

First, from the minute I step through the front doors of my high school, and look around at what I was greeted by every morning for the last four years, I am reminded of how far I have come since I stepped through those doors as a high school student for the first time back in September of 2012.I came into high school as a girl who was terrified of the future and had no idea where I wanted to go or what I wanted to do for college. By the time I was a senior I couldn’t wait to leave, knew where I was applying, and knew what I wanted to major in. Looking at colleges and being able to know I was leaving Long Island the next year made me more excited than I could imagine.

Another reason I go back to visit my high school is to visit my favorite teacher I’ve ever had. My choir teacher is a big part of the reason I became who I am today. From the first time I walked into the auditorium freshman year, he was always my biggest fan, and taught me to believe in myself, even when no one else did. I also learned there that its OK to laugh at myself just as much as it’s OK to believe I’m great as something. It’s not a crime to be proud of yourself, but being cocky is not the same thing as being proud. I fully believe that the auditorium is where I really discovered who I was.

Also, although I graduated, I still have a handful of friends that are still on the roller coaster that is high school. I went from seeing those friends every day to seeing them a few times a year, and even though I may be on break, it doesn’t mean that they are. However, I can’t help but be thankful that when I see them rushing through the halls to get to their next class, that I am not among them anymore.

Visiting my high school is always one of my favorite parts of break. Regardless of the fact that I’m happy to have completed the experience, It’s nice to have those moments of nostalgia as you look in the cafeteria and see where you sat every day for four years, or see your locker where you debated with your friend about whether or not your crush was flirting with you. Lastly, no matter where you go, it’s important to remember where you came from.