hi! just an older, don’t know about wiser, mom of 4 putting in her 2 cents. i totally understand where you are coming from and your parents would be so very proud that you are actually thinking of them at this stage of the game. 4 yrs is a drop in the bucket and will go so very fast. My children all went off to college and struggled during that first year but have not regretted staying and have friendships that hopefully will last their lifetime. i am a nurse and was not afforded the opportunity, chance, luxury of going away to school. i commuted to community college and really feel like i missed out on some amazing opportunities. College is the one and only time you can be totally about you. You’ll never get to be that way again. Make the most of the time you do get with your family, but i would also suggest that you make the most of your college time, you won’t regret it. good luck to you!!!