In high school I found myself using the phrase "I don't want to live close to home" a lot. After I finished freshman year, I really appreciated how close my home was. After living on campus, a more common phrase I heard was "You are so lucky to live so close to home." from out-of-state students. These are the reasons why going to school in-state is a really good choice!
1. In State Tuition
There is nothing bad about paying less for tuition. If you live in a state that has a good school in it, seriously think about going to your state school. You will save yourself the trouble of student loans and/or you'll save your parents' money. Either way, saving money is definitely a good thing!
2. Never feeling homesick
Going to school, leaving your friends and family (possibly for the first time), can be very scary. Knowing that you are able to come home when you miss your house (or your bed) is a very comforting feeling.
3. Going home when you're sick
Being sick at school is not very pleasant. Out-of-state students have to suffer through it, but in-state students have the luxury of going home and seeing their own doctor instead of the health center.
4. Home cooked meals
Dining hall food will make you have a new appreciation for home-cooked meals. Being able to go home or have your parents bring food to your college will make your stressful weeks a lot easier.
5. Having your friends from home visit
Whenever your friends who decided to go to college out of state come home for break they will be visiting your school! You get to show them how amazing your school is and why they should've gone to school in-state!
6. Short commute time
Now that I live with three people who live out-of-state, I see how much they dread the long trip home. Being able to pack up my things and drive 25 minutes home is very convenient.
7. Seeing people you know on campus
When you live in-state a lot of people in your neighborhood end up going to the same school. You may think going to school with people you already know might not be ideal--you're wrong. Seeing people you know around campus makes you feel more at home, when you are somewhere completely new.
8. Half of your class going to your school
If you loved your high school then it will be even more comforting to see the friendly faces on campus. If you did not love high school, then you will be surprised about the people you thought you did not like. A lot of people that you were not friends with in high school will end up being some of your best friends if you give them the chance!
9. You know the area before you go to school here
If you live within a half hour radius of the college you plan on attending, odds are you know the area pretty well. It is always very helpful to know where you are as a first-semester freshman, and it makes you feel less lost in this new college world!
10. You can go home for family events or holidays
Being able to go home for your siblings birthdays or holidays throughout the year makes college seem less scary.
11. Your parents taking you out to dinner
Having your parents come and take you out to lunch or dinner makes the dining food a little more bearable. It also makes it easier to save your money!
Going out of state seems fun, but staying in-state has so many perks. Being close to home can be a good thing, think about all of the factors before deciding which school to attend.
