Picking a college is one of the most important decisions that students make. One minute you can’t even use the bathroom without permission, and the next you’re expected to choose where you are going to spend the next four, or more, years of your life. For those High School Seniors who are currently making that decision, here are 7 pros of going to a college out of state.

1. You are forced to be social.

Being at a school where you most likely don’t know a single person can be really intimidating. However, it gives you the perfect opportunity to break out of your shell. To make friends you need to be friendly, and a place where you know no one, is a perfect place for that.

2. You get a Fresh Start.

When you don’t go to the same college as all your friends, you won’t constantly be reminded of the person you were in high school. If you are someone who wants to let go of the past and reinvent yourself, going out of state is the best place to do that. You can be whoever you want, because no one knows who you were before.

3. You become more Cultured.

Especially if you go to a different part of the country, you will encounter people you never have before. You’ll see new personalities and norms, as well as different values and ways of life. This can be a great learning experience, and can expand your horizons and point of view past your own home state.

4. You get to see Different Landscapes

You will truly learn that this country is full of different landscapes and scenery. You will see the beauty of nature in a whole new way, by discovering surroundings different from what you’re familiar with.

5. You Learn about Yourself

When you’re alone in a new place you must make decisions that will make you happy. You need to choose who to hang out with, when to go out, and how you want to spend your time. You begin to realize that it isn’t necessary to waste your time with things that don’t add value to your life, because you don’t have time for it. You mature and discover what values and morals are important to you, because there isn’t anyone to tell you.

6. You Get More Involved

Without your friends and family to fill your free time, there is a lot of free space in your day. The best way to meet new people and fight homesickness is to get involved on campus. There are no constraints on what you can do in college, and there is basically a club for everything you are interested in.

7. You Appreciate Your Home

Being far away does an amazing job of allowing you to appreciate what you have back home. With every person you meet, you will immediately compare them to your childhood friends. You appreciate the restaurants and town traditions more than ever, because you aren’t able enjoy them. You realize how much your parents did for you while you were home, and appreciate your high school teachers and all their hard work; especially when you can’t understand a single word your professor is saying. There’s nothing like going away, that makes going home so sweet.

So, as you’re making your College decision, don’t discount schools just because of how far they are from home. Don’t fear leaving your comfort zone, because it may just be the best decision you could ever make.