Leaving home is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do in my short lifetime. Even though I didn’t want to admit it, I knew that I was too young and naive to be able to handle everything on my own. I put on a brave face, organising everything that needed to be done, packed everything and even said goodbye, barely shedding a tear. And now I’m here, I can’t help but feel slightly alone.

But, even so, I’m not unhappy. In fact, I’m having the time of my life. I’ve never had so much fun before. All of the worrying was basically for nothing, now that I’m enjoying every moment I’m here.

I do miss home, but I’ve learnt that hanging onto the past and ‘what used to be’ can only lead to remorse and sadness. Instead, I’ve managed to let go and embrace change. Of course I still love my family and friends, but nothing is permanent, and when change comes, which it inevitably will, the best thing to do is to take it head in and learn to make the most of it.

How do I make the most of it? I make sure I appreciate every moment. Even the simple things like walking through campus or sitting in a lecture hall. These were the kind of things I dreamed about when I was younger. Spending a moment to take a deep breath and say to myself ‘I’m actually here‘ reaffirms the fact that I want to be here and that not only did I choose to be here but that I worked my ass off to do it.

So, when I’m feeling blue because I’m thinking of home, I might give my parents a quick phone call, but instead of thinking about how much I miss home, I should think of the happiness I can create for myself right here.