As B-term comes to a crashing start, emotions are on the rise. By the turn of the second week, many of us will be missing the comforts of home and the freedom of a week off of classes. It's likely a lot of us will also be relieved to start back up on classes instead of working full days. Even so, I thought of some things many of us will start missing by next week. Just know, you're not alone!

1. Home-cooked meals aka not DAKA

Let's face it. Campus food can get our tummies a'bubbling after a couple of weeks. There's nothing like a meal fresh out the oven, the stove, or the grill. One favorite I'm definitely going to be missing are Colombian empanadas-- readily available in my hometown, but far and few in the WPI area! Close second? A decent Jersey bagel.

2. Sleeping in past 9 am

Okay. Maybe 10 am. But it's plain to see that good sleep just can't come by consistently in college. The best we can do is prioritize a health habit, and hang on to that one habit throughout the term. Sleeping for a full 6-8 hours is not usually the chosen habit; however, it's incredibly important to cognitive function. I urge everyone to strive to get a full night's sleep at least 4/7 days of the week!

3. HOME FRIENDS

It can be hard to find friends with school breaks that line up with WPI term breaks. That challenge makes it extra special when you can find the time to meet up with childhood friends. Some of us are also in long-distance relationships. An added bonus to visits home is definitely getting to spend an inordinate amount of time with your other half.

4. Walking around doing work in your PJs

Optional.

5. Bear hugs

I am a very affectionate person when you let me be. The fact that I have no baby sisters or mom at college to give me snuggles saddens me greatly. Will definitely miss all the family and friend group hugs.

Even though these are all people and things we hold on to dearly, there are plenty college habits that we couldn't live without. Our community here at WPI is one of the most supportive hubs I've ever had the privilege of belonging to. Any homesickness can be readily diluted by a walk through the New England foliage, a late-night trip to the Sole, or an afternoon-in with friends.