I feel like with the rollercoaster that college always is, by the time the Friday before Thanksgiving rolls around, everyone on campus is more than ready to head home for break. With plans of getting my life together, marathoning a new TV show, and starting to study for finals, I somehow always find myself further behind after a break, feeling guilty for really taking the time to mentally relax as needed. That being said, this year was the most perfect break I could've ever asked for. It was just the right amount of relaxation and productivity, and getting to spend time with my parents after what's felt like a really long and tiring semester so far was the best. Sometimes all you need is a hug and a reminder that you are capable of doing all the things you want to. While 2016 has been a real pain at times, here are just a couple of things I'm grateful for in my life.

1. I get a whole week off of school for Thanksgiving break.

Will I complain when Vanderbilt doesn't give us Labor Day off or any other holidays during first semester besides a short Fall Break? Yes, and I probably will continue to till I graduate. Having a full week off for Thanksgiving break is the best though because with all the family and food and shopping, the actual Thanksgiving weekend can hardly count as any time off to catch up on work or just relax, which makes me even more grateful for the extra days that make it worth traveling all the way back home to Nebraska.

2. I have access to higher education at a fantastic university.

So we're getting real really quick here, but in all honestly I don't think I take nearly enough time to appreciate the fact that my parents have given me the opportunity to grow up in the United States and live a life that I want to make for myself, not only in having been able to work hard and get into a great college, but helping me pay for it and it allowing me to pursue dreams that many people do not get the chance to even consider.

3. My support system.

College can be an equally exhausting and exhilarating experience, and it helps immensely to be surrounded by loving and caring friends at school who are going through some of the same things that I am. If you couldn't already tell, my parents are my rock and they like always, have helped me get through both the best and worst times in my life. It also amazes me sometimes that I have a whole entire extended family in India that may not know me as well as I wish they could, but are constantly sending their support and will always stand beside me in everything I do. There are so many people in my life, whether that be old friends from home or new educators I'm meeting everyday, that are rooting for my success and well being.