When I tell people I chose to commute to college, they often tell me how I’m not getting the full college experience and how I should “let loose.” They tell me all about their crazy college stories, and how it was the best four years of their lives being able to do whatever they wanted, and experiencing the freedom of being away from their parents for the first time. But to be completely honest, I’ve never had any desire to go away to school. I don’t know why people can’t understand that it is completely normal to not want to live in a dorm, be away from your family and friends, and live in an unfamiliar neighborhood. I’m perfectly content with the familiarity of my hometown, saving up money, and being around my family and friends from home. And, no, that does not mean I don’t know how to have fun -- I just have fun while living at home, and there is nothing wrong with that if that’s what I chose to do.

I’m the type of person who finds it very hard to adjust to change, and I know that going away to college would be a lot for me to handle. I’m also very reserved and like my own, “down time”. I don’t mean that I avoid socialization completely, but being in a crowded residence hall and living with one or two roommates just doesn’t seem to appealing to me. I’m the type of person where I like it to be quiet right before I go to bed, and have the lights out by a certain time. I will admit, I sometimes feel embarrassed that I can’t handle going away to school, but then I remind myself, if that is what makes me happy, then there is nothing to be ashamed of. I like that my campus is small and easy to navigate, and that there is always a familiar face. I like the privacy of my own bedroom, sleeping in my own bed, and being able to shower without flip flops. I enjoy eating home cooked meals and being able to see my dog whenever I want.

To anyone who has felt like they’ve been missing out by not going away to college, don’t let anyone else’s opinions get to you. You are your own person and you should do what makes you happy. Don’t let society’s views get to you; it is completely normal to go to school locally if that is something that makes you comfortable, and you don’t owe anyone an explanation if they don’t agree with or understand your feelings. I have gained a lot from my commuter school. I have made several close friends, joined clubs, and strengthened my friendships with some of my high school friends by being home. I’m proud to say I don’t regret my decision to stay home while attending college at all.