Freshman year. We've all experienced it--the rush of being in a new place with new people, the intimidation of syllabi and notorious professors, being very unfamiliar with a large campus (or small, I don't know your life), and worst of all... knowing virtually no one.

Well, imagine feeling that same feeling...twice.

I attended a college in Texas my freshman year of college. I believed that it was my home and no where could possibly ever top it. I had created some pretty valuable friendships, ones that I will cherish forever. I had a ranked football team and game day was basically a holiday. I had gorgeous weather, even in the winter.

Towards second semester, I got homesick. I am from St. Louis, and college was about 10 hours away if you were to drive. The homesickness was manageable at first. I just kept busy and stayed involved in my sorority and clubs. However, when I went home for Christmas, going back was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. I knew I wouldn't see any of my family members for months, and I did not like that fact at all. I couldn't get through a day without crying.

So, after a long period of hard deliberation, I made the decision that I would be leaving Texas after the school year ended and start sophomore year in Missouri in the fall. This ripped my heart out: I would be leaving my best friends, an amazing school, and all my freshman memories behind.

Some people would ask: "Well if you loved it there, why would you come here?" It's simple really... I was homesick and I needed to be closer to home. Yes, I think about freshman year everyday, but I wouldn't take back my decision.

Now, I have some pretty amazing friends, an even more challenging workload, and I'm closer to home. Although the challenging workload is not necessarily desired, I'm being pushed. Transferring was probably best for me overall.

So, if you're worried about transferring and leaving behind all your friends, focus on your long-term. If you think a new school will be best for your career and health, do it. Even if you're questioning it, don't completely dismiss the idea until you have all the facts.

It will take a while to adjust. I tell myself this everyday. I just keep a smile on my face and look at all the good things I have to be thankful for.