You know what they say...you don't know what you've got until it's gone.

I've grown up in Northern Virginia my entire life, but I've never fully recognized how great it is until now, when it's time for me to leave. As I leave the area to attend an out-of-state college, I figured it would be appropriate to compile a list of things I will miss the most about NoVA.

1. Living minutes from D.C., McLean, Arlington and Old Town Alexandria

In about 15 minutes, you can be sight-seeing in the nation's capital, shopping at Tysons Corner or thrifting in Old Town Alexandria; although you might complain about having nothing to do, the options are endless if you're willing to drive.

2. Tysons Corner

Like I previously mentioned, Tysons Corner is a Godsend in disguise. I've basically spent half of my life in the Urban Outfitters, CAVA or AMC.

3. CAVA!

I don't think I can ever emphasize this enough; CAVA will arguably be the thing I will miss the most when I go off to college. If you think that Chipotle is still better than CAVA, you're dreaming!

4. Getting an education in

Although my high school felt too competitive at times, I couldn't feel more prepared for whatever college throws at me. Thanks, FCPS.

5. Friends from different backgrounds

Because not everywhere in the country will you be able to make friends with such diverse backgrounds. I've enjoyed every minute learning more about my friends' cultures, whether they come from Iran, Korea, Germany or the Philippines.

6. The epic high school rivalries

Whether you've been to a McLean v. Langley game or a Potomac v. Flint Hill game, the intensity you feel in those stadiums and gymnasiums is hard to see replicated in other regions.

7. FCPS snow days

#GODBLESSRYANMCELVEEN

Raise your hand if you've went imaginary Mansion shopping at least once during your childhood. Also, does anyone else remember that one solid season of The Real Housewives of D.C.?

9. Knowing a handful of people that work for the government

10. Free museums

I will miss not being able to go to the many art galleries and the Smithsonian museum for free when I'm bored on a rainy day.

11. Seeing the monuments at sunset

The epic summertime night cruises past the National Monument and Potomac, though.

12. The fast-paced lifestyle

I'm going to miss feeding off the high-energy of everyone around me

13. The stunning parks

However, when the fast-paced life gets too chaotic, you're only a few miles away from Great Falls or Scott's Run. I already regret not hiking more often.

14. The handful of concert venues

9:30, Echostage, Verizon Center, The Fillmore, Jiffy Lube Live...the options are endless.

15. The people

I will never forget everyone that made my childhood epic-- from my family to my friends to my incredible teachers.

Until Thanksgiving break, NoVA! Thanks for the memories.