Hi there! I was away from my family for 4 years while in school and it was terrible. I got to visit them but it was never enough. Even though I've made friends and I had an active social life, I missed my family a whole lot. We are very close and they have always been supportive. I moved back home after finishing school even though I had many job opportunities where I was. I am much happier now and unless I was forced to move away I would not do it again. I understand what you are going through...I would try and keep in touch with them as much as possible...now days you can just buy a $30 computer cam. and use it when you chat on Instant Messenger...that helps make it more bearable when you feel you're dying to see and talk to them. All the best to you!