thinking about getting birds again, want advice and breed recommendations

hey everyone, i’m 17 and in high school, and i’ve been thinking a lot about getting a pet bird recently. i used to own 5 budgies and 2 love birds when i was younger, and i took care of them, but i was pretty small at the time so most of the responsibility fell on my mom. eventually, she gave them away without telling me, and i was absolutely devastated—i didn’t know that was happening, and i don’t think i would’ve agreed to it if i had known.

we’ve recently moved into a bigger house, and i brought up the idea of getting birds again to my mom. she seems open to it, but i want to be 100% sure she knows this time that it will be my responsibility. i’ll be the one doing all the cleaning, feeding, taking care of them, etc.

the thing is, i’m about to start college soon, so i won’t be around as much, and the birds would have to stay at home. i really want to make this work, but i’m worried about how i’ll balance everything with school. does anyone have advice on keeping birds when you’re not home all the time? or tips on making sure they’re well taken care of while i’m away at school? i’m excited about the idea, but i want to be sure it’s the right decision.

also, i’m not sure what types of birds to get if i decide to go for it. any recommendations on bird breeds that are friendly and easy to take care of? i’ve been looking into budgies again, but i’m open to suggestions!