The process of finding, applying, being accepted and finally deciding on a college is one that I would not wish upon anyone. Hours of online searches, tears and staring at acceptance/rejection letters trying to make a decision that you do not feel qualified to make can drive a person insane. But fear not! Everything does end up working out, and college is some of the most fun you will ever have.
I would like to begin this by first thanking my amazing parents for giving me the opportunity to pick an out of state school and for all the plane tickets and shipping costs in the foreseeable future. While attending an out of state school is not for everyone, the opportunity is one I would recommend you take, if possible.
I love my family with all of my heart, but sometimes you have to learn to grow on your own.
My family is quite possibly the best family there has ever been, and I cannot express how much I love them. This, however, does not mean that attending an in-state school was the right option for me. College is a time to be independent and grow on your own, forcing yourself to be a plane flight or long drive from your family makes it easier to get over the homesickness, because you have no other choice.
A change of scenery is better then you can imagine.
Growing up in the Evergreen State is one of the things I am most thankful for, and when it came time to leave I had a very hard time parting with my beautiful city. Arriving in a brand new, unknown place challenged me to seek out new hangout spots and adventure venues. I have learned to love this beautiful new city and now know how to get from the 90 to the 405 to the 10 without blinking an eye.
New state, new people.
Don't get me wrong, I loved high school and every friend I gained over the years, but there is nothing like a fresh start. When I arrived in my new state, at a new school, I knew no one — not one person from my high school was attending the same university. While it may sound scary that I had no familiar face walking into classes my first day, it was amazing. There is something quite special about being in a room full of people that know nothing about you, it offers the chance for a brand new you.
Comfort zone status: shattered.
I am a big believer in letting life pick you up and throw you a million miles away from where you are comfortable. It's how you grow. It's how you learn to adapt. And it's how you are shaped into the adult you are meant to be.
Attending a university out of state may not be for everyone, but it sure is worth it if you have the chance.
