The spring semester is approaching fast — perhaps it's already here for some college students. Whether you're still at home or on campus, we're all going to miss these eight things when we're back at school.

1. Eating home-cooked meals

Nothing beats a home-cooked meal. I love cooking my own meals, and the thought of only having dining hall food as an option is a little painful.

2. Enjoying my free time

Free time in college is vastly different than free time at home. "Free time" in college means time to catch up on the daunting pile of homework waiting for you to complete it. Free time is actually free time, in which you can do whatever you want!

3. Being able to drive

Okay, maybe this is just me. I don't have a car on campus, so it was really nice to get in a car and go places when I wanted to. Paying for gas, however, will not be missed.

4. Spending time with my family

Living at home can be aggravating at times, but it's always a happy moment when I see my family after being away for so long. I don't live too far from home, so I do see my parents more often than most, but reuniting with them is always a joy!

5. Seeing my friends

My high school friends made this vacation as amazing for me. I am forever grateful for their presence, and for their ability to always make our get-togethers the best moments of my life. I will miss them so incredibly much.

6. Sleeping in my own bed (and sleeping in)

Sleep is such an incredible thing — especially in one's own bed. My bed at college is technically my bed, but there's something special about my bed at home that I cherish.

7. Being with my pet

I know everyone with a pet relates to this one. (And if we're all being honest with ourselves, we've all thought about packing our pet in with our clothes and taking them to school with us).

8. Having no homework

Of course, I'm excited for the new semester. I'm excited for the classes and my professors, for the topics we will study and for the new things I'll learn — I just won't enjoy the readings and the worksheets that accompany those things!