I've always, and always will be a Marylander. I love the state: nature is spectacular, history is rich, and the food is to die for. Seafood, anyone? So when I moved out of state for college, I didn't know how homesick I was going to be. My parents encouraged me to move, but also pressed the fact that they'd won't be upset if I wanted to move back home. Two years later, and I am still in Salt Lake City! My homesickness has never really gone away, but it's definitely lessened. I don't think that I'll ever think of Maryland as something other than home, but I'm so thankful that I have moved away for college.
I admit it, I've always been my parent's child. I strongly depended on them until I moved away, and even now I call home frequently. Moving across the country for schooling required me to mature fast- I needed to cook, transport, and generally care for myself. The fastest my parents could get to Utah was a 4+ hour plane ride, and I didn't really know anyone in the state. Now that I'm successfully living in the state, I've really gotten some new perspective. This perspective has allowed me to analyze different aspects of my family and friends, making me realize what I do/don't miss about each.
I've also met some fantastic people. My current roommates are all I could ask for and more, my classmates are funny, and I am humbled at professional dancers humility. I'm so excited about the people I haven't even met yet because I know that those people will fill my life with even more happiness. However, I will never forget those who I grew up with, and each passing day makes me joyous that I can share my life with so many friends.
Salt Lake City itself is fantastic as well. The people here have this sense of shared community, which is greatly appreciated. Everyone here is genuinely nice, not because they have to be. Utah is a place for diverse outdoor activities: skiing in the mountains, boating on the lake, hiking in the southern parks, even shopping in the many cities surrounding downtown Salt Lake. There's no excuse for boredom in the city.
I have definitely been active in both the University and Salt Lake dance scenes. I'm studying to become a modern dancer, and moving away from home has provided me with so many more opportunities- I'm cast in many shows, and I even interned for a dance company! I can't say that I wouldn't have the same experiences if I were home, but this gives me just a taste of what living, and dancing, away from home is like.
However, I can't say that I'm totally glad that I shipped out of state. I definitely miss my friends and family, not to mention the great state of Maryland. However, I'm thankful for all of the opportunities that I have been given in Utah, and I can't wait to see what's in store for me.
