This weekend was Family Weekend. Â It was also the last Family Weekend I would have at Amherst College. Â I remember my freshman year, I Â felt awkward when my family came. Â With only a month since I last saw them, I felt the event stifling. Â This wasn’t how I imagined college. Â I expected complete indepence and freedom from my parents’ watchful eye. Â I criticized everything my parents said and was easily embarrassed by their comments. Â It’s interesting how things change in such a short period of time.
Yesterday, it appeared that because of a broken boiler, my family wouldn’t be able to visit. Â There was a sinking feeling in my stomach and I realized how much it meant to me that my family always came to see me for Family’s Weekend. Â Even worse, most people expected to see my family and constantly expected them to arrive. Â I looked back to all those times when I was foolishly embarrassed by their affection because of how much my senior yourself longed for it. Â
My dad texted me to say if I still wanted him to come, he would drive up. Â I told him I did and Saturday morning he drove three and a half hours to spend about seven hours with me. Â I had never been more grateful to see him. Â I listened to him as he conversed with other parents and teased my friends with pride. Â This was my dad, my family and I was so happy to show them off this weekend.
For the students who’s loved ones can’t make it to Family Weekend, my heart goes out to you. Â I know that I am very fortunate to have a family that can drive up for a day on short notice. Â I hope that this weekend, you were able to meet the family’s of friends and acquaintances and connected with your own loved ones through various ways of communication. Â Remember, too, that Amherst can be a family to you as well.Â
For those students with loved ones still visiting, count your graces. Â Enjoy your time with them because these moments will stay with you forever.