When I was a junior in high school, I remember all of the fuss about where everyone was applying for college. At first, I went along with the "bandwagon college" most of my grade was talking about until I really thought about it. Did I really want to go to a school where all my friends were going? Normally, the answer would be yes, but the more I pictured it, the less I wanted to. That led me to choose a school where none of my high school friends were going.
This was the best decision of my life. I had no choice but to make new friends, so I did. I didn't have a "go-to" person or people to go out with, so I started meeting new people with my roommate who I've only met once before. I think it's such a weird experience making new friends because it's been so long since anyone has had to. Think about it: Most people become friends in middle school, high school or even kindergarten for some. The thing about college is that everyone is in the same boat. Everyone is just as nervous as you are. This eases the pressure of meeting new people immensely. Even the first night in my dorm, I had a bunch of people who lived on my floor order in food, and we all just talked.
See, the thing is, if I would have went to a school where my closest friends were, my first instinct would have been to meet up with them and start this new college experience. However, that isn't the college experience to me. Yes, it is possible to meet new people with your current friends, but I just don't think it's the same. When you don't have anyone you know, you're forced to put yourself out there and travel a little out of your comfort zone. I joined a sorority, I met new friends, I created experiences for myself, by myself. Everyone wants this new independence so many people talk about, but how are you going to be able to do that if you don't branch out?
I'm so happy I ended up choosing the school I did. I love all of the friends and experiences I have made here and wouldn't give that up for anything. Now I'm not saying that you shouldn't pick a school where your friends go, but don't have that be why you pick that school. I hear too many times, "Oh, well, my friends are going there, so I guess I will, too." No. You are going to be paying a lot of money for the education you're going to be getting, so please choose wisely. If by chance you and your friends are going to the same school, that's fine! Just be sure to do your own thing sometimes, so you are able to meet new people. College is what you make of it, so take advantage of all the opportunities you have!
