Living on campus can be a journey of self-discovery that includes resident halls that turn into homes and friends who turn into family, but the transition of new schedules and routines becomes difficult to manage when students return home after graduation or for vacation.

Each break, students head home to spend time with loved ones and to escape the stress of college life, but many are finding that flying back into the nest is more overwhelming than an essay or group project.

“The hardest part for me was losing my independence,” said supply chain senior Andres Soler. “During the semester, I can do what I want, when I want, but at home, I’m back under my parent’s rules.”

Students aren’t alone when dealing with a change in routine. Parents also must adjust to their children, who often feel entitled to continue living their college lifestyle.

Nutrition junior Macy Ramos revealed the impact that returning home has on her mother.

“I can tell that my mom gets a little stressed when I come home. She’s always happy to have me back, of course, but I come home a different person,” Ramos said. “It takes a toll on her. I feel I can handle myself now, but some parents don’t like to let go.”

Students find going away for college a challenging and enlightening experience that unlocks hidden potential and provides a new sense of ambition. However, they find it difficult to hold onto that identity under the roof of their parents.

Accounting alumni Jamil Memon explained how he dealt with the dilemma and the reason why going home can be a burden.

“I figured out that there are two of me. There is the dorm Jamil, and there is the one that comes home,”Memon said. “You have to tone down the college lifestyle during winter and summer, even though it’s very difficult. Once you taste freedom, you never want to leave it behind.”

arts@thedailycougar.com