As a transfer student, I’ve experienced the best of both worlds. I attended college out of state and experienced a whole new culture in Texas. As a Louisiana native, I’m not used to the vast amount of open land, the Western culture and line dancing. Now that I’m back in New Orleans, I’ve invested in a completely new setting and culture. After a few months at home, I’ve compiled a list of five perks of staying close to home for college.
1. You’re pretty much never homesick
Unless you travel a lot or study abroad, it’s nice to know you are already in your comfort zone and can easily access home. For me, college in my own city is still different because I’m from the suburbs. It’s the perfect balance of college atmosphere, but I know I can always return home to my family for a home-cooked meal or down time.
2. You never miss out on cool events around your town
When I left New Orleans, I was also leaving behind all the music festivals and amazing food. Whenever I visited home, I inhaled beignets and tried to hit up the music scene. Now, I have the opportunity to go to all these festivals and not eat my body weight in beignets over Christmas break.
3. You actually become more adventurous
There’s plenty of road trips I plan in my head that I would love to embark on. From New Orleans, it’s easy to access the Mississippi, Alabama or Florida beaches with some friends on a long weekend. Also, I never go home for week breaks anymore. I feel more adventurous to see new places now that I live in my home state. It’s nice to leave home, and at the end of your vacation, you know you’ll be returning to a comfortable place you love!
4. You’re close to your family
If you ever need help, your family isn’t far away! Maybe you want down time away from your roommate or a bed bigger than a twin size. Either way, you have an outlet to get away from your college life, spend time with your family and relax.
5. You can introduce all your friends to your city
Wherever you’re from, you probably have a special place for home. There are tons of restaurants and spots you love that newcomers probably don’t know about. Attending college in New Orleans is a truly unique experience to say the least. There are so many restaurants, neighborhoods and stores to see. As a local, I know about all the good restaurants away from campus. It feels great to introduce your friends to your favorite restaurants, stores and parks and show them a different side of town!
These five perks definitely have an advantage over going out of state. Being in your comfort zone already helps you adjust, too! There are many perks to going out of state for college too, but there really is no place like your home.
