Going away to college is a little bit different than going to a college in your own city. You learn different ways to do things and how to live life without relying on your parents as much. Here I will point out 10 things that you will discover if you go away for college...

1. New Friends

Meeting friends you never would have met if you didn't leave for school. The neighbors you spend late nights with talking about the what if's in life. Or the people you spend late nights with studying for your upcoming Psychology exam together.

2. Independence

Learning to live on your own (or with a roommate). Paying for your own food and supplies and not relying on mom and dad.

3. Calling mom and dad

Okay, so you might not be relying on them for money, but you will sure as heck still be relying on them for advice. I call my mom or dad at least every other day asking them for advice about school, majors, food, boys, etc. Let's face it. We will never get over this stage. They're always going to be on our speed dial. Sorry mom and dad.

4. Cooking

I definitely don't know how to cook, but I have learned to make a mean grilled cheese. College has forced me to learn to cook the basics.

5. Managing Time

even if you don't go away to college you must learn to manage your time wisely. But being away for school has the option of no curfew. Staying out later, and nobody there to tell you that you have to be studying.

6. Scared of storms

This might be for just myself, but recently I was alone in my apartment without my roommate or neighbors. The tornado sirens were going off and I was petrified. It wasn't a good experience but being away from home has given me this experience (that I did not want to experience).

7. Missing family get-togethers

It has to be one of my least favorite things when the family decides to have get togethers and I can't go. It's sad to be hours away when your family is all together.

8. Roommates

Somehow I got really lucky. I got the best roommate and she became my best friend. This is a person you choose to live in a tiny little space you call your dorm with. And hopefully become best friends.

9. Appreciate your parents more

I've always appreciated my parents but being in college has made me appreciate them more. Trust me, you'll miss them cooking you meals, cleaning up the dishes, and keep the house tidy. Do NOT take advantage of this!

10. You'll miss your dog

This is a different kind of miss than not seeing your dog for a couple days. You'll end up face-timing your parents just to see your dog instead of them. (sorry mom)

From,

a girl who's still trying to figure it out