Growing up in a small suburb in Southeastern Wisconsin made me realize how badly I wanted out. I went to school with generally the same people my whole life and everyone knew everything about everyone. The gossip was constant and there was no way to avoid it. Luckily, I grew up in a family that wasn't afraid to spend time outdoors, go four-wheeling, camping and escape the latest news about who said what about who.
It was hard at times to stay out of the gossip or even not contribute to it, but when I figured out who my real friends were senior year, I realized who I had become living in the white picket fence society and that I needed to change. Essentially, my change in friends and support of my family gave me direction in my choice of the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. I did not expect, however, to experience such a change and different lifestyle than before.
The first thing that caught me off guard was that Minnesota Nice is an actual thing! There were so many kind and genuine people in which I realized not everyone is a cold-hearted-bitch. That being said, there were also times where people weren't as kind and this is where living so far away really changed my outlook. I realized when something was wrong or someone wasn't treating me well, I wasn't able to go home and hug it out with my mom. I learned to stick up for myself more than ever since I didn't have any other option and from this experience, I realized that I wouldn't ever let someone walk over me again.
The second and probably the most important thing I learned was finding out what path I wanted to take with my liberal arts degree. Anyone who comes in undecided will say that choosing a major is extremely stressful and although it was a good choice to come undecided, it was also the hardest part about my time here so far. Previously diagnosed with depression and anxiety, choosing what major I wanted was like climbing Mount Everest.
This is where being an out-of-state student really helped me. In my hometown, I had severe anxiety doing anything whether that be going out to eat by myself or even getting up in front of the class to talk to a teacher. When I moved to Minnesota, it felt like a new beginning and, eventually, I wasn't afraid to choose my major and start networking. I actually became excited about my future, when before, I figured I was doomed.
Finally, I learned that keeping in touch with family is one of the hardest yet most important things to do when attending an out-of-state school. Whether it be weddings, Thanksgiving, or cousin wine nights, figuring out a way to get home when you have a midterm on Tuesday is a nightmare. All in all, it seems impossible to keep up to date with immediate and extended family but in the end, they are the most important people in your life. Even if you miss one wedding or a Thanksgiving dinner, making sure you give them a call is an important lesson that I'm still trying to succeed in.
I think choosing an out-of-state school pushed my limits and stretched my abilities to places I could've never imagined. I never expected to have done the things I have or met the people I have. I advise students to consider an out-of-state school even though it will be a step out of your comfort zone.
