In August, most of my high school friends and classmates were packing up, getting ready for long drives or flights to their new home. A new location, new friends and a new environment were something that we were all looking forward to. Meanwhile, I was doing the same ... but not quite.

I live in Saratoga, CA, about a 25-minute drive from San Jose State. When I went to college, I was excited to live in my new dorm, but I knew my experience would not be the same as my friends'. All of my friends were experiencing an entirely new area, new weather and sometimes even a new part of the country. Meanwhile, I was still generally at home. The excitement from move-in day almost felt like it was over when I went to work the next day, at the same job I had over the summer.

And while I would love to have a new experience, I learned how homesick I would be if I had left. I have a very close relationship with my parents, and I already missed them after a week. So, I went home the following weekend. My parents cooked me dinner, and I watched a movie with them.

I had an amazing night. I learned how much I really appreciate them, and everything they do for me. I learned how lucky I am to live in a new and different area, but still be able to see my home and my family when I miss them.