“The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.”
For anyone who has had the courage to pack up their things and move to a new place without looking back, I applaud you. I’m not talking about those who pack a suitcase and leave the state or country for a week or two and then return to their 9-5 job of sitting at their desk. I’m talking about those who pack up everything they own and move away, even if that means moving away from their friends and family. This even applies if you decided to go hours and hours away to a college where you didn’t know anyone, because that’s something I wish I had done sometimes.
When I think about where I see myself after graduation, I’m not sure exactly where I am, but I know for a fact it’s not in my current town. Or my current state, for that matter. I’ve lived in New Jersey, in the same county, for 21 years of my life (minus the time I’m away at school which is a little less than an hour away from my house).
When I think of all the possible places and opportunities that are out there, I realize there’s no way I want to stay in my hometown. Yes, this town will always hold a special place in my heart, but life is too short not to escape. When there’s hardly anything here to offer, why should I limit myself?
Yes, the people I love and are close to live in this state. But who is to say that I am destined to live here all my life? All throughout high school I pictured myself working and living in New York City. The thought of going from a small town to a huge city like that was thrilling. There are so many opportunities in the city that can only be found there. Sure, maybe I would end up hating all the noise and the commotion, but you don’t know if you like something until you try it.
Living in the city was something I always wanted to do, and would still love to have the chance to experience, even if it is only for a short amount of time. Even interning in the city and commuting would be a worthwhile experience, and I would love to have that chance as well. Even though I pictured myself living in a city and not in a small country-like county in New Jersey, the possibilities don’t just end there. After visiting the south with my roommates over spring break, I realized I would love to experience life down there. Everything there is just so different when compared to the north. And it’s still driving distance from my friends and family, if you’re willing to get behind the wheel for 12 hours.
I know that right now moving someplace new is impossible. I’m still in school and working a part-time job, a job that doesn’t pay me enough to move away to start a new life. But I won’t let that stop me from doing so in the future. If anything, my college degree is going to be a ticket out of New Jersey, and the opportunity to experience something new. You can’t get anywhere if you leave your feet glued to the ground you’re so used to.
