#whyareyouevenreadingthis

It’s currently Homelessness Awareness Week right now and as I rest a minute (or several) from my organic chemistry work, I just kind of wanted to reflect on what is “home” to me. 

It’s currently a trend right now to post videos asking fellow students what “home” means to them and it got me thinking what this word means to me. 

Although some would think that Kansas City, Missouri would be my home, I wouldn’t say so. Sure it’s where I grew up but it’s also the reason why I left. But that’s not to say that UCLA feels completely like home to me either. It definitely has a stronger “home” vibe but still there’s something missing. It’s like no matter where I am, I’m in limbo finding home.

But I think what “home” to me is the space I surround myself where I can find the people that care for me most. Old friends, current friends, new friends. The bonds that I’ve formed back in KC is what pull me back every time. Mom, Dad, sister dearest, and the best homies I could ask for. They formed home for me back in the middle of nowhere (actually we were in a good suburban spot haha). And here at school, I found friends that I feel like I’ve known for years. From penthouse 1st years with no one but each other, to the new friendships I’m trying to cultivate right now as I sit at one of their desks righting this lactose-filled post. 

Sure home also includes the physical shelter and food I have but I think everything wouldn’t be the same if it wasn’t for these people that love, joke, harass, embarrass, and care for me.