The Importance of Family Time

The Importance of Family Time For weeks, I had trouble deciding whether I should stay in Champaign-Urbana for Spring break, plan a small getaway with a few friends, or simply head home. If I stayed on campus, I could work all week and finish up a few midterm papers. If I went on vacation, I could relax in the sun. In the end, I decided to head to my parents home in the suburbs, and I couldnt be happier with my decision. Photo from Rachel Hernandez Being home this week has allowed me to spend valuable time with my parents, time that I otherwise would not have gotten. The truth is that growing up, especially in your late teen and early twenties, is a busy time. As a college student, it can be all too easy to lose touch with family members. Heading home with no set-in-stone plans was absolutely amazing. Photo from Rachel Hernandez Whether it was going for long walks with my dad or running to five grocery stores with my mom, being able to create new memories with my parents was priceless. Photo from Rachel Hernandez Here I am, two years into my college experience, and yet I feel a sense of jealousy for you high school seniors. I am asking youbegging youto appreciate the time you have left with your family. You have so much time ahead of you to spend with your family, but it will never quite be the same as it is now. Seize the chance that is right in front of you and spend time with the people you love. Ultimately, my point is this: Do not rush your last few months living under your parents roof. Enjoy every laugh, every fight, and every memory. Because one day, in the near future, you will look back and wish that life could have slowed down. Rachel Class of 2020 I am studying Middle Grades Education with concentrations in Social Sciences and Literacy in the College of Education. Although I now reside in Champaign, I am originally from Vernon Hills, a Northwest suburb of Chicago.