Being an out-of-state student is never an easy transition, especially when you're coming from halfway across the country. We've left the people and places that we love in order to begin our college journey and we find out that a lot of things are completely different than what we're used to. As exciting as that may be, it takes awhile to become adjusted to a new environment and new people.
Here are six signs that you're an out-of-stater:
1. You have a fresh start.
There's a high probability you didn't graduate with a ton of kids from high school who went to your same school if there were any at all. Since nobody has a clue who you are, now is the time to be whoever you want to be without any pre-judgments or given stereotypes. Even if there were a few kids from your high school, at a large university that'll hardly matter.
2. You're not prepared for winter.
Winter was practically nonexistent back home. Last year my Christmas holiday consisted of 80-degree weather. Perhaps that's why I've been asked so many times if I have ever seen what snow looks like before. Struggling with having to buy a winter wardrobe and walking in lots of snow has become the new norm. However, I will never get used to living in a place that has single digit weather no matter how much I try.
3. You hear a lot of new slang.
I have never heard of the words "jawn" or "deadass" before I even stepped foot on campus. Being accustomed to hearing new slang is something that you can eventually pick up on. People aren't prepared for hearing your own slang either. I've had people immediately question me about living in the south from merely saying the word "y'all'.
4. In-state vs. out-of-state tuition.
Don't even get me started on in-state kids complaining about their tuition rates. Out-of-state kids have the misfortune of paying more than double. Say hello to loans and debt for the next ten years or so of your life.
5. You have no idea what WaWa or Sheetz is.
I can't tell you a number of times I've heard Philly and Pittsburgh natives have the argument as to which chain is better. If you don't think it's a big deal, you clearly aren't from Pennsylvania because both sides will tell you that their side is better.
6. You think people have accents and vice-versa.
Whenever I meet someone new, sometimes I believe that they have a noticeable accent. Not only will you think this about other people, but the people who meet you will think so as well.
