A couple weeks ago, I was able to go back to Delaware for Fall Break. You might not believe this, but I did not go to the USC game. I was sick and didn’t think four hours of standing in the cold would be good for my health (please don’t hate me). Instead, I took the bus from Notre Dame to O’Hare and got an earlier flight home. When I got off the bus, it seemed strange to me that I was the only one in Notre Dame apparel. I had forgotten that not everyone is obsessed with ND.
A couple hours later, I had arrived in Philadelphia where my family picked me up. After getting back to my house, I felt like I had never left. I had missed seeing my family everyday, sleeping in my own bed, showering without flip flips, and visiting my friends.
Being at home also made me feel lonesome. My parents were at work and my sister was at school, so I was home by myself all day. Living in a dorm, there’s always something to do or someone to visit. Sitting at home watching TV all day just seemed more boring than relaxing. Although I don’t particularly enjoy waking up early and going to class, my courses are interesting and I learn something new everyday. It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it. Another great part of Notre Dame is the wonderful people that I’ve met here. It was strange to go a whole week without seeing the people that I eat dinner with every night. I especially missed my roommate, my closest friend here. Don’t get me wrong- I love my family and my friends back in Delaware, and it was terrific to see them all. Notre Dame and home just feel like two different worlds, and both are very dear to me.
Visiting my friends at other colleges made me really appreciate ND’s campus. We have a beautiful school, especially with the leaves changing colors right now. And maybe it’s just me, but the students here seem friendlier than others.
Notre Dame has quickly become my second home, and I’m very happy to be back on campus. I’m so grateful that I’m able to go to school here and am looking forward to the next four years.
Katie Schrandt
Class of 2013
