There are so many things to take into account when you are picking a college to attend. Things like the majors that are offered, distance from home, and location are some of the big factors. I urge anyone who has the opportunity to go to a new place for college, take it. There are so many things that can be gained from being in a new environment such as personal accountability, maturity, and new challenges.

1. New Adventure

For many us, we are itching to explore somewhere new by the time we are eighteen. Many people live in the same area or even the same house up until this time. When you go this long seeing the same people and places each day, you might wonder what it would be like to live somewhere else. The easiest way to answer this question is to seize the opportunity when it arises. If you have the opportunity to go away to college when the time comes, I urge you to take it.

2. Complete Independence

Going away to college means that no one is breathing down your neck telling you what to do. If you want to do laundry once a month, that's up to you. If you want to make Mondays your Chick-fil-a day, good for you. If you are staying out late, you don't have to text anyone or worry about a curfew. This can't be achieved while staying at home. If you go to school and come home like you did in high school, you will be treated like you are still in high school.

3. Personal Accountability

Because you are on your own, you are completely responsible for yourself. Responsibilities will be heightened due to the fact that there is going to be no one to bail you out of your mistake. You will have to learn to deal with certain issues that you have never handled, and ensure that you have handled them correctly.

4. Getting outside of Your Comfort Zone

Challenging yourself to be an involved member of an entirely new community will put you outside of your comfort zone. Adjusting to life in a new place as well as working with new people will strengthen your social skills and better prepare you for your professional career. This shows that you are very adaptable and willing to try new things.