From the moment I stepped on my campus, I was constantly being asked where I was from. I am from Atlanta, Georgia. I go to school in Atlanta, Georgia. I live 6.7 miles away from Oglethorpe University and it is where I have chosen to spend my four years of higher education. There are people here from all over the country. Arizona, New York, Texas, Florida. From France and Germany and Guatemala. The list goes on.Lo

When I am asked why I chose to stay so close, I can hardly give an answer that people understand. I love my city. I have found my place in the world and I will never leave it. People love their hometowns and, of course, some do move back after school and that is where they stay. I, however, could not even bear to leave my place.

From the little hide-away's, to the bustling city life, my city is a unique and magical place. My city is becoming the place to be. The arts are exponentially growing and Atlanta is becoming "the new Hollywood". As a theater major, I want to be where the people are. I want the opportunities that one can only get if they live in Atlanta.

Not to mention my family is here. A lot of my memories are here. Where I practiced diving is right down the road. I know every back road to get to my favorite restaurant. I actually live closer now, to my favorite clothing boutique. (which probably isn't very good for my wallet but oh well.) All of my favorites are here, and I didn't have to relearn my way around a city. I can actually show the best places to go or the best things to do, to all of my out of state friends. Which was excellent when I was trying to make friends, freshman year.

And honestly, It is really nice knowing that my parents are just a little bit down the road. And they can help when I have a flat tire, or when I cannot stand to eat in the cafeteria one more time. I can always go home if I need to. I love my city, and I just couldn't stand to leave it.