Before I first came to college, I counted down the days to move into my Freshman dorm every single day of the summer, and I was unbelievably excited to start a new adventure. I never believed that I would miss every aspect of home as much as I do.

I was always told that college freshmen were only homesick for the first couple of days, but I am two months into the school year, and regularly struggle with homesickness. Being seven hours away from family and friends has been one of the most difficult situations that I have experienced, and I am constantly challenged by the opinion that being homesick is a problem that I should ignore or "get over." But I think that it's more than okay to miss the beauty, people and memories that my hometown holds.

I sometimes find myself questioning why I chose to leave colorful Colorado for a state that is known for its corn. I miss the adventure and wonder that awaits in the mountains, and the fresh air that is not consisted of strong wind like that of Nebraska.

It only took about a month to fall in love with the unique culture that Hastings, Nebraska holds. I did not know something as simple as Kool-Aid could bring a community of diverse individuals together. The community goes above and beyond to make newcomers feel welcome, and that helps a lot with the change of moving. Most people here wave to each other as they drive passed one another, and that was something that I rarely experienced in my friendly hometown. As hard as it was to let go, a little bit, of the place I called home was, I can full-heartedly say that this new town of mine has grown on me. it is starting to truly feel like my home away from home.

Whenever I have those days where I want to be nowhere but Colorado, I let myself be sad for that day. I am a strong believer that everybody deserves a mental health day, and ignoring something that is bothering us can be damaging in the end. I have figured out that the best way to handle my homesickness is to let myself feel. I sit there and think about everything that I miss about home. I think about the way my house smells, the holes in the road on my block that need attention, and the smiles of the people that I miss most. I let myself relive the good times with vivid memories and I let myself cry.

It is important that after having a day primarily focused on letting out my emotions, that I put on a smile the next day and just live. Whether it's being a part of a club or organization in the community, spending time with new friends, or simply going to each class, I let myself enjoy my new home. I create memories that I will look back on and cry about in the future when I move to yet another new place.

College is stressful, but I refuse to let each day pass me lightly. I am going to explore this culture that I am finally getting used to, and I am going to enjoy college.

I will have so many holidays and breaks to look forward to throughout my college career, and I can't wait to be home for all of them, but this is where I will write my new adventures for now.

I am homesick a lot, and that is fine with me. It is not something that we can simply "get over."