Written by Devon Mitchell
Fall Break is in only one week away, and students are preparing for alternative break trips, or the long/short trek home. As a Freshman, the idea of being back in my hometown in a week’s time is both an exciting and frightening idea. It’s been about two months since I’ve been at home. That means it’s been two months since I’ve slept in a comfortable bed, since I’ve cuddled my cat, and since I’ve even driven a car. Will I even remember how to drive when I’m put behind the wheel?
Needless to say, there’s a lot I’ve missed from home, and the thought of seeing it all again makes me extremely excited. Although my excitement to be back in New England can hardly be contained, it feels weird to go back. It’s been nice to be at Roanoke, with all the freedom that comes with being a college student. If anything, I’ve become accustomed to the liberties of independence. Back at home I’ll have to answer to my parents, do the dishes, be home for dinner. I’ve essentially paid for a flight back home to lose my freewill.
I admit that may be a bit dramatic, but the idea is still there. For the week I am home, I’ll have to go back to the lifestyle I left behind. That’s not to say it was bad, but I’ve grown as a person during the two months I’ve been at Roanoke. Apart from the drastic differences of lifestyle to worry about, there is also the expectations versus reality. The expectation is that I’ll be able to spend time with my friends and family; alll the people I’ve missed the most will drop whatever they’re doing to come spend time with me. It sounds amazing, but the reality is both of my parents work and my friends who stayed in New England will be in class. So, my week will probably not be everything I was hoping for, but it’ll be nice to have the opportunity to see people.
Going home for the first time is nerve-wracking. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t stressed about it. However, at the end of the day it’ll be nice to be back in New Hampshire. It’s not a terribly long time, I doubt I’ll completely revert to my High School self. If anything, I’ll come back to Roanoke being happier where I’m at.
