The transition from high school to college can be difficult for many people. Your newfound freedom can be a blessing and a curse. While leaving home for the first time can be an exciting new adventure, you also have to realize that there is a lot to be missed.
1. Leaving behind old friends
You've spent the last 18 years building and creating friendships. Though you will never forget these amazing people, going your separate ways can be one of the hardest things you've ever done.
2. Making new friends
Sometimes getting out there and finding more people like you is just what you need. College is the perfect place to put yourself out there, you never know who you'll meet.
3. Leaving your parents
They've been there your whole life and you don't know what you'd do without them. You know they'll be there no matter what, but not having them whenever you need will undoubtedly be a major change.
4. New experiences
You now have the chance to do things you've always wanted to do. Your chance to get out there and see what the world has to offer.
5. Having to start over
This can be good or bad. You spent countless hours building a reputation for yourself but being in a new place, you must now rebuild that reputation. You're given the chance to create a new image for yourself.
6. Independence
You've been waiting for the day that you can (for the most part) make your own decisions. Whether that be what time you come home or what you are eating for dinner, leaving for college provides just this opportunity.
7. Work
Now more than ever you are working on your own. You're learning new skills and doing new things. Laundry, grocery shopping, etc. These new responsibilities are much-needed lessons when it comes to growing up.
8. Classes and grades
The not-so-fun part of college is the stress and work that comes with your courses. You are expected to make certain grades and take classes you may or may not wish to take.
9. Expenses
Money is always on your mind, but now more than ever you're in a crunch. College itself is costly and this doesn't include expenses outside of school. Struggling to make ends meet can be a tough part of college life.
10. Forming new habits
You may find yourself doing things you never even would have considered six months ago. Habits can be good and bad, now will be the time that you get to decide which habits you will take.
11. Maturing
Living on your own away from home is a big step. This life-changing experience can equip you with the skills necessary to grow and mature into the young adult that you are. College is a place for new beginnings and a new you.
