Life is measured in experiences. When I went away to college, I got the biggest wake-up call of my life. I was no longer in my safe, little hometown. My mom wasn't nagging me to do my chores anymore, but she also wasn't just down the hall when I needed comfort. Deciding to go to a university instead of community college was a big step for both my family and for me, but I have never looked back. Going away gives you the opportunity to live on your own, make your own mistakes and learn responsibility.
Living in a dorm freshman year is a brand new experience for a lot of people. Sharing a living space with another person is no easy task. I was lucky enough to get along with my freshman year roommate to the point where we were very close friends. Not everyone gets as lucky as I did, and some people get stuck with terrible roommates. Learning to live with another person in such a close space teaches you so much about communication and responsibility. Plus, living somewhere other than home is a huge change. Learning to clean, eat, and do laundry without your parents will be critical later in life when you get an apartment or live with a significant other.
Going away to a university gave me the chance to join a sorority, something I have wanted to do since my senior year of high school. By joining Greek life, you learn so much not only about your sisters/brothers but about yourself. You start to understand the balance between your social life and school and how to keep it all in check. Not only that, but the people you meet in your organization are the people that are going to push and better you for the next four years to come. You will gain a better knowledge of what being a dedicated, philanthropic, and passionate member to your chapter means.
Going away to college gives you the chance to not only meet new and incredible people, but learn about things you are actually interested in. Unlike high school, you get to choose your classes and area of study. There are a few Gen Ed classes you have to get through, but once you get into classes that pertain to your major, it is a huge accomplishment. These classes become self-motivation to push yourself towards graduation. You will make connections with professors who will challenge you and make you see things from a different angle. You'll learn how to build a resume and build connections that can lead to internships and jobs. The best investment you can make is your education!
Going away to college gives you the opportunity to grow and live somewhere different than you are used to. You will meet people who are like you in every single way and even make friends with someone you never normally would in high school. Going away gives you the opportunity to learn, grow, make connections and become self-dependent. While I know college isn't the route for everybody, if you are even considering going away, I recommend it. You will learn more about yourself than you ever thought possible.
