I started my senior year knowing I wanted to leave state for college. When I brought it up to my mom, she was supportive, but still really shocked, I don't know if she thought I was serious, but I definitely was. I grew up in Michigan and I had only left the state a few other times. College was my chance to explore different places. I looked all over the country for schools and eventually, I found Thiel College. I waited to tell anyone I was thinking of Pennsylvania until I received an acceptance or rejection letter. When I got my acceptance and started to tell people, I got mixed reactions of happiness and confusion. I heard things like, "It's so far away though" or, "What's wrong with Michigan schools?" There are so many reasons why I left.
1. I needed a change in what I was looking at.
I’ve spent my entire life looking at the same cities and towns, the same stores, and the same people. As much as I love my small town in Michigan, I couldn’t be there anymore. I’m not the type of person that likes to dwell places. I like to keep moving and seeing new places.
2. I wanted to meet new people
If I had stayed at home for college, I would be looking at the same people I graduated high school with. I wanted to avoid that.
3. I needed a greater sense of independence
My mother is an amazing woman, don’t get me wrong. She’s been there for every choir concert, high school play, and every other big moment. But as I got older, I realized that I’ve been using her as a security blanket. In my head, moving states would eliminate that happening as often as it would if I had stayed in Michigan.
4. It makes seeing my best friend even sweeter
I hate being away from my best friend. She is my rock. I would be crazy without her. She was really upset when I told her I was leaving, but she understood. We haven’t seen each other since the day before I left and we won’t see each other until November, but that’s okay, because even though it’s only for a few days, every moment is worth a million times more.
5. I just really wanted to travel, even if it was for school
I love going new places, and I don't get to travel a lot. Going out of state would mean traveling. This made me really excited.
6. The thought of staying in Michigan made me sad
I’ll always have a sweet spot for Michigan, but my heart just wasn’t there anymore. It started to feel less like home, and more like a stepping stone the longer I was there. I’ll always go back, of course. My family and friends are there. Some of my happiest memories are there, but I needed to go out and make new memories somewhere else. I think Michigan understands.
7. I had a point to prove
I don’t take to new surroundings very easily and talking to people is a constant struggle. I knew that a lot of people were doubting me, even if they weren’t being vocal with it. They thought I would stay and go to one of the universities close by. I know leaving state to prove a point is a horrible reason, but it’s been working for me so far.
I know that even after reading this, some people might not understand why I chose to go, but I hope that one day they will. Moving states for school was and continues to be a decision that I won't ever regret. I've met so many people from so many places. I feel like I'm living the way I've always wanted to live.
