I never would've thought moving away from home would have been this hard.

During high school, I participated in enough programs that helped me prepare for what was to come at a four-year university. I spent a summer dorming at UC Santa Barbara, and although it wasn't as far as San Jose State, it still gave me the experience of being away from my home.

Starting school was easy, until about the third week when I began having midterms. It hit me. I missed my home. I missed my parents, my sisters, my pets and especially LA, my city. I started school very confident, thinking to myself, "I'm fine. I won't really miss my home, this is what I want and need: To just get away." But nothing can compare to being home.

Although it was hard, it has also been an amazing opportunity. Whenever people ask me if I regret my decision of moving five to six hours from home, I say no. I'm allowing myself to grow as a person by surrounding myself in new scenery and new people. I'm gaining experience, like practically living on my own and depending on myself; something I wouldn't have gained by staying home.

I'm glad I chose San Jose Sate as my university. To anyone who is graduating from high school soon, I highly recommend moving away from home for college. You will learn so much not only about others but also about yourself. I can't wait to see what I keep learning.