Going away to college is the first time many kids get away from living at home, which means that when parents weekend rolls around in mid-October, some might be dreading seeing their parents roll up to campus. On the other hand, others may be counting down the minutes until their family walks through their dorm room door. Either way, here are some reasons everyone should appreciate parents weekend.

1. FREE. FOOD.

Okay, I know the first thing on the list should be getting to see your family, but lets focus on what most college kids are missing most. Food that's good, and not from the dining hall! Most likely, your parents will be more than happy to take you out for, if you're lucky, MULTIPLE meals off campus. This means that you get good quality food, and you don't have to worry about your bank balance being $ -0.30 by the end of the weekend. Live large, and order that $25 steak, because, thank God, your parents are paying!

2. Compliments

College can get lonely, and we all sometimes feel like worthless pieces of trash running on no sleep and getting crushed by a constant stream of work. Have no fear, the minute your parents walk in the door they'll be so excited to hear about all the 'amazing' things you're doing. They love you, and miss you, and really want to have things to brag about . . . so you best believe they'll be eating up your stories about getting A's on your mid-terms. This comes with a showering of compliments, which will 100% boost your morale.

3. Money

If you went a little crazy with your spending the first few months of school, you're definitely in need of a refill on cash. THIS is where parents come in handy. Everyone knows college kids are broke, so they will most likely take pity on you and in addition to buying you things while they're here, leave you with some extra 'pocket money.' Thanks, Mom and Dad, now I can buy more tailgate clothes and go out to dinner instead of struggling to buy more easy mac!

4. Mobility

Your parents most likely rented/brought their cars, which means that freshmen unable to keep cars on campus can finally be mobile! Say goodbye to Uber for the weekend, and hop in your familiar, comfy car whenever you need to run to the grocery store or go to the mall. Bonus points if they let you drive!!

5. Showing Off

Much like #2, your parents coming shouldmake you happy, because it's amazing to get to show them where you've been living and how you're doing! Take advantage of how excited they are to see the campus and indulge in the activities! Take them to your favorite spots, tell them stories, and share your experience with them. It's a great bonding experience, and I promise they'll be so happy to share it with you!

So all I can say is, thanks for coming, Dad, and I can't wait for the next Parent's Weekend!