At first, I never would have imagined going to college on Long Island. When I was making my college decision, I didn't want to be too close to home, but I didn't want to be completely far away either. In the end, I decided to attend Adelphi University in Garden City.

I knew this was going to be completely different, not just because of the whole transition from high school to college, but because I had to learn to immerse myself in the vast wonders of Long Island, or at least Nassau County. Here's what I've discovered.

1. The city isn't far away.

It's only a host train ride away. Remember just because you're on Long Island, doesn't make you away from the rest of the world.

2. You learn about the hotspots.

One way or another, you'll find out what popular places you should check out. Your friends will probably ask you to join them for an off-campus lunch, or go out to the clubs Thursday nights. While you might not go all the time, you'll at least know what they are in case you do decide to go.

3. The people are different.

Long Islanders and New Yorkers have their differences, like everyone else, in good and bad ways. Since Long Islanders aren't generally used to the activities of city life, they tend to be more laid back and reclusive. This isn't the case for everyone, but it is for some.

4. It's okay to be scared at first.

I didn't know what to expect, not just with college, but with some Long Islanders. I had a general overview of what they were like because I knew some Islanders, but I was glad to know most of them aren't what I expected.

5. Sometimes you need to escape.

After going to school in the city up until college, it was nice to have a change of pace with a more relaxed lifestyle. Sometimes you stop and appreciate the lush environment you wouldn't quite get in the city.

Going to school on Long Island has its pros and cons, but I discovered more about myself. While some Islanders might seem reclusive, others are outgoing. Occasionally, everyone needs to get out of their environment, and that's something I do every day.