One thing you learn as an "adult" is how spectacular getting mail is. Today I checked my mail a grand total of four times. No luck, but the anticipation only keeps getting better. I'm at that weird in-between stage where I'm getting my own mail, but none of the bad kind, like bills. Right now, my mailbox being full only means good things.

1. My parents send candy.

Oh yes. Don't let anyone trick you into believing college is one giant shove into adulthood. There's a lot more responsibility, but my parents send me Hot Tamales and Skittles like I'm at permanent summer camp. It's glorious.

2. Heavy envelopes mean spare change.

I have an affinity for spare change. Something about change makes me feel a lot wealthier than I actually am, and my mom sends her spare change to me in the mail. I have a jar of it collecting in my drawer, but shhh- you don't know that.

3. Mail means letters and love.

My birthday was two weeks ago, and getting my own birthday cards in my own mailbox was the greatest gift of all. My parents send me notes and pictures when they think of me. Even if it's just a few words about their day, seeing it all in print means more to me than anything else they could do.

Mail is my favorite surprise about college. I never considered what a role it would play in my day-to-day mood. I can always count on that mailbox to provide an incentive to get through class, to cheer me up, or as just a great way to start my day.