When I was 16, not only did I think the world revolved around me, but I also thought the best decision at the time was for me to get as far away from home for college as possible. As a junior, I have spent three long years living across the country from the most important people in my life. Homesickness has never been more real.

I didn't realize the impact my parents had on my life until I had to learn to live on my own. It was great for the first month. It was like one big party and I was the keeper of my own time and decisions. They couldn't tell me when to be home, when to clean up after myself or when it was OK to hang out with friends. After a month of what felt like a vacation, I was beyond ready to go back home.

I never thought I would say it, but I missed being told what to do! I would trade cafeteria food for home cooked meals...even if it meant that I had to have a curfew again! As the months went by, I began to realize all the other little things I took for granted. I also missed allowance, getting shuttled around and my laundry getting done. Looking back on it now, I lived one luxurious high school life.

Where was my mom when I forgot to take my towel to the shower with me? Or when I forgot my lunch at home? Or when I needed to be reminded to do my homework?

Not only has this been a self-reflecting journey, but it has also taught me not to take time for granted. I have had to sacrifice not watching my two younger sisters grow up to further my own education. I didn't realize how much I could miss out on in three years by simply going to school in a different state.

I have missed out on seeing them both go through three years of high school and three years of middle school. Those are some of the best and ( most awkward) years people endure! From the first middle school dance, to senior prom, to hitting puberty and college acceptance letters—I have missed times in their lives that they will never forget.

Not everyone gets the opportunity to move to a new state or experience living in different parts of the country; so for that opportunity I am very grateful. Not only has it made me appreciate my family more, but it has also made me grow a deeper appreciation for the city and community I grew up in.

Through this experience, I have learned that there are so many more benefits to moving away for college than people realized. You begin to value the time you do spend with your family and loved ones, you learn how to make decisions and live on your own, and you are forced to confront yourself and grow into an individual.

Right now, four years away from home may seem like an eternity and the idea of it may seem so unattractive. However, 10 years from now when I look back on "the best years of my life," I know I will be glad I made the decision I did.