Going away for school is a life-changing moment. You say goodbye to everything you were once familiar with. Some of the children you grew up with for 18 years, you’ll honestly never see again in your life. Your parents aren’t there to guide you in your new chapter; you have to make new friends, and you don’t live in your house anymore, so basically everything gets flipped upside-down.

Even though it is a very exciting time, there are moments of sadness. Leaving the nest is tough, but always remember your family and friends are just a phone call away. Saying goodbye is crucial. Make sure you give everyone who's important in your life a goodbye and let them know you’ll be okay on your own. Here are some ways to say those goodbyes.

To your Mom and Dad

Thanks for everything you've done for me. You've changed my diapers, put up with my whining and ultimately shaped me into the person I am today. I know not having me around the house, complaining may be hard, but if you guys ever miss me I'll be just one call away. Leaving you guys might be the hardest thing I've ever done, but don't worry about me. All my new friends and experiences will get me through it. I love you guys, and please don't turn my room into the exercise room.

To your sibling

Thanks for always being by my side and always having my back. I know we bicker about everything, but I know you will always be looking out for me because I'll always look out for you. Thanks for helping me though every situation that was a little bit too rated-R for Mom and Dad to handle, and if anything ever happens at school, you'll be the first person to know. Hey, don’t be shy, either. Whenever there’s a big party on campus, you’ll be the first to be invited.

To your friends

I still can't believe we all graduated high school. We've seen each other almost everyday for the past 15 years, and now I'll be seeing you guys once a month, if that. We're all going to have an amazing time at school and make new friends, but never forget where you’re from and which town raised you. In a couple of months, we'll all be back together, hanging out like the good old days. (P.S. Your friends at school will never be as awesome as your hometown squad).

To your significant other

Even though this only applies to some, it still stinks. No matter how far you travel, you still have a bond that nobody can break. Don't let anything come between you two and just know this will only be temporary. It will be over before the blink of an eye. With all the technology around us, its almost impossible to not keep in touch.

To your pet

This is the hardest one, in my opinion. The furry friends you've taken care of for years aren't going to be there to comfort you. Show them a little extra attention before you leave. Make sure they know you love them because they might be around for only part of your life, but you're their whole life. They'll be waiting for you with open arms (paws) when you get back.

Never forget that you’re not saying goodbye to these people, but "see you later." Before you know it, it will be winter break and everything will go back to the way it used to be.