On a breezy summer day, standing at the bus stop ready for my first day of elementary school, I glance behind to take one last look at the people who will forever stand behind me-my family. Literally and figuratively, families are there to always be behind you, to be your backbone and support. Through thick and through thin, there is always something comforting about being able to glance over your shoulder and know that your family is there for you, and that they “got your back”.
In a way, the words in that phrase “got your back” really come from those moments in a person’s life where you turn around to get an encouraging look from your over-enthusiastic mother right behind you and it all feels okay; all negative thoughts vanish from existence and you know you have at least one supporter.
When someone makes the commitment to “have your back” it is more than just being a complete supporter, it is a promise to always be there in times of need without judgment. Fortunately, the only people who are required to do those things are your family; they can never leave you behind. I really am a sucker for Disney animation and whenever I think about family the famous line from the movie Lilo and Stitch comes to mind, “Ohana means family, family means nobody gets left behind. Or forgotten.” Not only does the quote make me miss my own family, but it also makes me appreciate the support and guidance they have given me throughout my transition into college. As a freshman, it is so easy to become overwhelmed and stressed and I am happy to say that my family has helped me get through all the struggles that I have faced thus far. I truly believe that it is vital to have your family’s support when you are in college.
When I say support, I do not just mean financial support, but I also mean emotional support. Going to college is a huge change in lifestyle and there are emotional repercussions that come along with that. Having your family by your side means everything. From doing well in your classes, to feeling good about yourself, the emotional support that they provide is required to be the most successful version of yourself. Family weekend is here to give West Chester students a “pick me up” in the middle of the semester and to give them a chance to share their everyday lives with their family. I believe that every student should invite their families out and share the weekend with them because the support they provide is priceless.
Erin King is a first-year student majoring in communication studies. She can be reached at EK800454@wcupa.edu.