I was one of 400+ graduating seniors in my high school class and man, I hated it.

Having graduated in the richest county in the whole United States, I always felt a certain pressure to continue on to a four-year university but in truth, it just didn't fit me. Florida State University had been my dream since middle school but would you believe me if I told you that at the very last minute, I deferred my admission and opted for a community college instead?

Crazy... I know.

Despite contrary belief, community college is not the "easy way out."

My classes were challenging and I, too, experienced many late nights that made me want to quit. Somehow, though, I always found the drive to push forward. The smaller class sizes made it easier for me to connect with my teachers and the lower costs made the possibility to graduate one day without having drowned in student debt plausible. I thrived in my classes; I always looked forward to going.

In fact, after my first few weeks, I had fallen into a rhythm that was both comfortable and manageable.

Due to living at home, not only was I able to manage my school schedule a lot easier but I was also able to work full time at both of my jobs. I paid all of my car payments on time and never relied on my parents for gas money or the payment of my phone bill.

I didn't realize it at the time but staying at home for my first two college years gave me the opportunity I needed to get in touch with who I really was.

I found my balance.

When it was time to graduate with my two-year degree and finally step out on my own, I was more than ready because, in truth, those two years prepared me for the real world more than high school ever did.

All too often, I hear people knocking those who didn't choose a four-year university from the jump and let me tell you... It's not okay.

Whether it's community college or taking a gap year to travel, what someone does with their education is not your business. Each person's educational journey is just that; their own. In no way, should a person's choice to go a different route be a topic of conversation to you.

So no, I didn't rush a sorority and yes, I lived at home for my first 2 years... But I'm not going to sit here and tell you that it wasn't the best decision I ever made for myself.

I'm one of the few who will admit that after graduating high school, I just wasn't ready to leave home. The idea of moving away and starting a brand new life for myself scared the absolute s*** out of me.

It doesn't make me a coward nor does it make me any less of a college student than those who committed to a four-year university up front. It just makes me honest and I'm perfectly okay with it.