A teenager dreams about moving out of their parents' home to discover what the world has to offer. I left home at 18-years-old, having grown up in Southern California, and was on my way to live on the East Coast for college. Here are five things I learned when I made that choice.
1. You Are On Your Own
It never struck me how real it was to move out of your home state until that last goodbye-- and the next thing you know, you're watching your beloved parent disappear into the distance. I moved out and I would be on my own. It's a scary feeling knowing absolutely no one; not knowing who to trust. Being alone made me realize my own potential and how to be independent because no one was going to watch out for me other than myself.
2. People Have Different Values And Opinions
Being in a different state, you would think at least being in the same country would mean people would still be somewhat alike. But I discovered that people have very different opinions and tolerated different things. I was surrounded by people who promoted body acceptance, supported LGBTQ individuals and an importance for football. It took some time for me to realize these things were important matters to the community. I even educated myself on some areas I didn't know much about. I was raised to share similar sides with my parents, but being able to see the other sides of arguments allowed me to develop my own opinions and become a better person. I'm more open-minded and know to never talk smack about the Bills.
3. The Food Is Different
I didn't realize leaving my home state meant I'd have to miss the home-cooked meals my parents would make. Coming from a Hispanic family, dinner meant tacos, enchiladas and other traditional dishes. I didn't realize that moving to a predominately white state would mean I wouldn't be able to get a taste of authentic Mexican food.
Instead, I was introduced to beef-on-weck and I learned Buffalo wings are called chicken wings in WNY. My guess is the availability depends on the people living in the area. California has a huge Hispanic / Latin American population which would explain the presence of certain foods and services there. It is bizarre to think something you're so used to having isn't close to your reach. It was sad, but I did enjoy the new food I was introduced to.
4. There Is A Whole New Environment
I was surprised by the amount of green grass and forests I was seeing. I had never seen so much green in my life! I love nature and forests have always been my favorite habitat. My fiance, who had grown up in Western New York didn't think much of the scenery, but he enjoyed the sights of rocky mountains and miles of desert of California over the life-filled trees that hid deer, birds and other creatures. To each their own, I guess.
5. People Are Generally Kind And Welcoming
When I arrived to campus I was afraid that people would not welcome me being an outsider. Fortunately, I found remarkable people who were always looking to help me find where I needed to go and even interested in where I was from. I lost count of how many times I got questioned, "Why did you move here? It is sunny over there!" I have met some amazing people here and I made some of the greatest friends I have ever had. There seems to be a kind and welcoming vibe from the people of Western New York and it helped me feel at home. I felt like I belonged.
