The first time I left home and my parents was way harder than I thought it would be.

I had never really gone away to summer camps by myself or on a long trip without my parents. I was more of a homebody before I attended Summer Academy at Virginia Tech. I remember counting down the days until it was time for me to move into the dorms. I was very excited for college. I did not realize how much I would miss being home and not having to wear plastic flip flops every time I took a shower.

After I unpacked my stuff and finished orientation, I watched my parents drive away and off campus. I was completely alone for the first time and didn't know anyone at all. To be honest, I was very scared and excited at the same time. I couldn't wait to start classes and explore what it was like to be on my own and become my own person. I was ready for the challenge.

The beginning was kind of rough. I would wake up in the morning in a panic, forgetting where I was and not being in my bed that I've known so well. It was such a different environment that took some time to get comfortable in. I had to become aware of my new surroundings until it all become familiar.

Being away from home started to get easier when I made friends and focused my attention on my classes. I could get my mind off of missing home by watching a movie with some pals and exploring downtown Blacksburg. I got to find my own way and be independent by making decisions on my own. Although these were good distractions, I still felt the desire to be back at home watching TV on the couch with my parents.

Some other things that helped to get my mind off of missing home was the great food and spending time at the gym. The wonderful and "free" food kept me going throughout the day, especially the ice cream cones at D2. After dinner, I could go run on the treadmill or play ping-pong with my friends. Not gonna lie, Netflix was a nice distraction as well, especially since I was watching "Friends." Having a daily routine of classes and activities helped keep me from thinking of what I was missing out on back at home. Communication and texting fixed it too.

Ever since Summer Academy, leaving home gets a little easier when I have to go back to college. I still get a little teary eyed when I have to hug my parents goodbye, but it will all be worth it when I walk across the stage at graduation. I don't see this as a weakness but a strength to know that I always have a family to come home to, and I hope everyone else sees that too.