I've yet to start my journey at Appalachian State University, but as the move in date is quickly approaching, I can't help but ponder on what I will miss while I'm away at school. While there are many tangible items I will miss, there are more people and experiences that I will miss while at school. I'm sure everyone can agree that being at school is much difference than being in the comforts of your own home.
1. My own bed
The twin XL beds just aren't going to be large enough for me when I'm so used to my comfy full size bed. My fuzzy blanket and giraffe pillows help keep my comfort level to a maximum. My dorm room bed will have to cut it for a while, but I'll always find the most comfort at home.
2. My pets
My dog, Toby, and my turtle, Franklin are my best friends. They love and play with me when I'm feeling down. Toby makes a great cuddle buddy for those cold winter nights and I'm going to miss him the most while I'm gone.
3. My bathtub and personal shower
Bath time is very relaxing after a long day, and unfortunately we do not have this option when living on campus. I'll miss being able to unwind in a bath tub. I'll also miss having a personal shower. I think we can all agree there is something unsettling and scary about a community shower set up.
4. Home-cooking
My mom, dad, grandma and aunt are the best chefs in the world. There are great places to chow down at in Boone, and of course a dining hall on campus, however, nothing will every compare to a home-cooked dinner made by my mom.
5. My family
There is so much I'll miss about my family (besides home-cooking) and I'll miss them the most. My mom and dad are my biggest support system and living with them everyday for eighteen years is something that I've grown accustomed to. I'll miss being able to walk into the living room and see my mom watching the ID Channel while my dad takes a nap on the couch. I'll miss my little brother more than anything! He's my best friend, the coolest eight year old around and my biggest form of entertainment. I'll miss playing Skylanders with him while he makes fun of how bad I am at it.
6. My hometown
Statesville, NC: a town not many people have heard of. Statesville is not full of many things to do, but I have been here for my whole life. I know where everything is, I know when things are open, and I know what the traffic is like around here. Statesville will always be my home, but Boone I am so ready for you.
7. Things I won't have room for
I won't have room for two full bookcases and 12 giraffe stuffed animals in the small living space I'll be sharing in the fall. It will be a new and weird experience not having all of the clutter in my room that I am accustomed to.
8. My friends
All of my friends are going to different places, which is going to be new and strange for me. I wont be able to drive 20 minutes and stay the night with any of them like I have been fro years now. Lunch dates will be a lot harder. They are all a huge part of my large support system and I'll miss seeing them everyday at school.
9. Things I'm not allowed to bring
There are so many fire hazards. I love candles. I am a person who will go and drop $40 on candles that I don't need, but really, really want. Those fake flame candles and wall plug ins will not do the trick for me. I will also miss my toaster, extension cord, and all other hazardous items that I own.
10. Less stress
I'm currently enjoying a stress free summer without classes, and while I'm excited for college I can't help but think about how stress I am going to be whenever classes start. High school was stressful, but imagine how stressful college courses will make me. I am going to miss this stress free summer around exam time in December. I'm a chemistry major, so please everyone pray for me this semester.
11. All the memories
High school is over and these last eighteen years are behind me. I am embarking on a new journey, one that is exciting and scary, but one that I am ready for. I have created so many memories here in Statesville, NC with my friends and family, and I cannot wait to see what memories I will create in Boone!
While school is new and exciting.There are many things I will miss from the life I am currently accustomed to. However, I'm read to embark on this journey (but also come home occasionally for a home-cooked meal).
