Every day it seems like I find out something new and refreshing about my hometown Midwestern city, Minneapolis. Although I've traveled to many different states and countries, the only place I have declared permanent residence in my 21 years has been in the Midwest. The people, the weather and small-town vibes are all great things that have kept me rooted here for all of these years. At least, that's what I like to tell myself.
As I approach graduation from college this spring, I'm going to have to make a choice: Do I want to settle in the Midwest post-graduation, or do I want to explore somewhere else in the country? And, with that being said, would I want to travel to a different country?
I have time to figure this out, and opportunities are bound to arise to make this decision easier, but there's no doubt that this time will quickly dwindle. I have an inexplicable love for this great state, but I have always felt like there's a void. I think the solution to fill this missing something could be packing up my life and moving it somewhere far away.
I know I'm not alone in these thoughts; many people move away from their hometown or college town after they graduate. In some cases, it can be far more beneficial. Traveling to new places can help you learn many things about yourself. And I didn't even want to stay here for college after graduation. My staying behind was strictly due to finances, and I'm happy that I made that decision; as I've said before, there are many things about the Midwest that I adore.
Living at home with my family this summer has also fueled my desire to seek a different residence next year. They are the people that raised me, and I'm eternally grateful for them, but I need to try something on my own. There's a feeling of independence that I'm craving, and the only solution is to attempt to craft a life myself. I know they won't go anywhere and that I can come back to visit at any point in time. I have always been a big city-oriented person, and the Midwest just doesn't cut it for me. It's terrifying to think that if I moved somewhere, I could hate it; but, in my opinion, it's worth the risk. I'm only young once, and the last thing I would want is to regret not trying something new.
But now it comes down to where should I go? Maybe it will all make more sense when I decide what I want to do. A viable option I have is to spend a year abroad in a program teaching English. Because I study French, potentially living in France for a year doesn't sound too bad. Because I love big cities, having the chance to live in New York City is my dream. I will go wherever my career takes me, and, if one of these destinations happen to be on that path, the happier I will be.
The world is my oyster, and I can't wait to see what doors open after I graduate from college.
