I know this list could go on forever, but here are just a few things us college students are grateful for more than ever this Thanksgiving holiday.

1. Good Food.

Just say the word gravy and you’ll see the mouths of colleges students begin to water. Living on our own is fun, but with a low budget and not many cooking skills the past few months have mainly consisted of mac n cheese and PB and J. So, a full on feast of delicious Thanksgiving food never sounded so good. I can hear my stomach grumbling now.

2. No School.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been stuck in a never-ending cycle of midterms, papers, and projects. So whether it’s the whole week or just a few days, any time off of school is like a breath of fresh air.

3. Friends From Home.

Since August all we’ve had is FaceTime calls to connect us with the people we grew up with and know so well. It’s beyond difficult to spend all summer making memories with these friends and then when August comes just up and go our separate ways. Thanksgiving break is the first time of the school year for us all to be reunited and catch up on all the new and exciting things that have happened in the past few months, and we are so thrilled.

4. Friends From School.

As exciting as it is to go home and see all your childhood friends, it is also comforting to know that you have people to miss, and people who will miss you while you’re gone from school. Even though it’s only for a few days being separated from the people you spend every day of your life with is reason enough for a little separation anxiety, which in turn makes us that much more thankful to have them.

5. Family.

Nothing can compare to the warm feeling in your heart when you step off the airplane and know that for the first time in a long time you are in the same building as your parents and that in just a few minutes you will be able to hug them once again. After these stressful last few months, spending time with the people we love most is the best part of all. After all, it is because of them that we are able to be college students in the first place.

I hope every college student visiting home for the holiday has safe travels and returns to school feeling rejuvenated and ready to finish out the semester strong. As hectic as life may seem to get we all have so many things to be thankful for, so take the time to slow down and appreciate them all. Be grateful, be humble, and be kind. Happy Thanksgiving!