A lot of people make the college search process a huge deal. When I was a senior in high school, everyone was constantly asking me, "Where are you looking for schools next year?" I shopped around the country at different universities, but I always knew I wanted to go to Wisconsin. I had, ever since I was a baby. Coming from Madison, this was a safe bet. I knew what my experience would likely be like because my family had all gone here and had similar experiences. So, when I made my decision and ultimately packed my bags and drove the two miles from my home to dorm, I wasn't all that nervous.
A lot of people probably thought I should've done something different and stepped out of my comfort zone more. But I am incredibly happy that I go to school in my hometown. I may not be thousands of miles away from my parents, but I like that.
I love going to school in my hometown. Not just because my mom can drop off a shirt I left at home when I need it. I love going to school in my hometown because it allows me the freedom to grow up, without having to totally uproot my life and start over somewhere.
People always say, "I want to go to school far away because I want to be able to explore somewhere new." I may go to school five minutes from my home, but I definitely am seeing a new side to my city every day. I'm downtown all the time, now. I am discovering new spots on State Street as my new college friends from other cities are, as well. A lot of exploration happens in college, and I'm not missing out on any of it because my high school and college are located in the same city. I hardly ever go home. I actually am probably less homesick and inclined to go home than others because I was already confident and comfortable the second I arrived on campus. I may not be new to Badger games, but that's why I love it. I always dreamt of Jumping Around in the student section when I was in high school, and now that dream is a reality.
Madison is an awesome city, and I'm sure other state universities in cool college towns are just as great. There are so many new restaurants, libraries, nooks and crannies to discover as a student. But, it's the people who really bring a sense of change. I've met so many great people at this school. A lot of them come from different cities and states. I can create a great support system of friends from my hometown, friends from college and my family all in one place. Sure, I'll probably move out of my hometown eventually, but right now, I'm enjoying seeing my city in a new way.
I went with a safe bet. I knew I'd be facing cold winter months and warm summer days. I knew that I'd run in to people from my high school and remain friends with some of them. But, I also knew that I was going to meet new friends that help make me the person I'm supposed to be. I knew that I'd still get lost trying to find my classes because let's face it: this school is huge and there are so many classrooms. I also knew that I'd have the time of my life, and it doesn't make a difference how far away I am from home. I can explore, yet remember my roots all in one place. And I think I'm pretty lucky to be able to do that.
