As move-in day gets closer, everyone seems to focus on how exciting college will be.
New friends.
New classes.
New freedom.
A fresh start.
And while all of that is true, here’s something you don’t hear very often:
It’s okay if part of you doesn’t want to leave.
Maybe you’ll miss family dinners.
Maybe you’ll miss your younger siblings.
Maybe you’ll miss your youth group, your church, your favorite coffee shop, or simply the comfort of knowing your way around town.
Missing home doesn’t mean you’re not ready for college.
It means you’ve had people and places worth loving.
When you get to college, don’t feel guilty if homesickness shows up. Most freshmen experience it at some point—even if they don’t talk about it.
Instead of fighting those feelings, acknowledge them. Call home. Stay connected with the people who encourage you. Build new relationships while appreciating the old ones. Both can exist at the same time.
Most importantly, remember that God doesn’t stay behind when you leave home.
He’s already on your campus.
He’s already preparing relationships you’ll build.
He’s already walking into this next season with you.
So as you finish out the summer, enjoy the familiar—but don’t be afraid of what’s ahead.
Home may be changing, but you’re never walking into the future alone.


