4 answers
Andrew
Student
Wichita, Kansas
1
Question
Asked
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How can I avoid becoming a college dropout far from home?
I am a senior considering schools I never before thought to be far. However as the deadlines approach, I begin to worry of anything that could go wrong. What do I do with $40000 of debt with no home and 6 hours drive from anyone I know? #Spring25
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4 answers
Stephen Trent
Equity Research
16
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Stephen’s Answer
Hi Andrew. As with any new investment, investing in a college degree could be daunting. I would check to see if the university you plan to attend has good career and guidance resources. I would also tell you to have faith in yourself - pursue what you want to pursue and think about what career doors the degree will open, even as you might take on debt. Best of luck. :)
I appreciate your support, Stephen
Andrew
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Andrew, I totally get it—the pressure of college decisions is real, and thinking about being far from home with debt looming can make anyone feel a little... panicked. But don’t worry, you’ve got this because I believe in you. Let’s break it down and have some fun along the way, because I wannabe keep having fun too.
Step 1: Get a grip on that stress
First, breathe! It’s totally normal to feel worried, but don’t let fear run the show. College is a big leap, but it’s also a chance to grow and discover yourself—kind of like a superhero origin story. Maybe you'll discover you're really good at making ramen with 3 ingredients or find your tribe in the most unexpected place. Just think of it as a new chapter full of potential.
Step 2: Financial Planning—Don’t Panic, Just Plan
Now, about that $40,000 debt. Yeah, it sounds scary, but it’s not the end of the world! Take a deep breath and start researching scholarships, grants, and work-study programs that can help you pay off that debt in the long run. There are opportunities everywhere if you dig deep enough, and many schools have resources to help students find money they didn’t even know existed. Pro tip: Apply for every scholarship you can find—even the quirky ones (I hear there are scholarships for tall people and left-handed folks)!
Also, make sure you know about student loan repayment plans. The world is full of options to help you manage the debt, and the right plan can make a huge difference down the road.
Step 3: Building Your Support Squad—Family, Friends, or Even Pizza Delivery
Being six hours away from home can feel like being on another planet, but guess what? You don’t have to do this alone. With technology today, you can FaceTime, text, or call anyone, anytime. And guess what else? You can create a support network at school. Whether it’s making friends in your dorm, joining clubs, or even striking up a conversation with the person in the cafeteria line (who knows, they might become your new best friend), you’re bound to find your people.
And, hey, if you’re ever feeling homesick, remember that you can always FaceTime someone to share your pizza (because pizza always makes everything better, right?).
Step 4: Lean into the Experience—You’re Not Alone in This!
Yes, college is a big change, but it’s also a chance for new adventures! Embrace the weird, quirky, and fun parts of being in a new place. Worst case, if you don’t like it, you can transfer. But there’s also a big chance that you’ll find something that feels like home, even if it’s just a favorite coffee shop or the most chill spot on campus.
Step 5: Set Small Goals and Stay on Track
Lastly, remember that college is about progress, not perfection. Break your big goals into smaller, achievable steps. Got homework? Break it into chunks. Feeling overwhelmed? Take a walk. It’s okay to stumble—everyone does. But each little win adds up, and soon you’ll be walking across that graduation stage wondering, “How the heck did I make it this far?” And trust me, it’ll feel AMAZING.
So, to sum it ,
Take a breath, plan ahead, make connections, and don’t forget to laugh along the way. You’re about to level up in life, and with each step, you’re building the foundation for your own unique success story. Go make those memories, conquer those challenges, and before you know it, that 6-hour drive will just be a distant memory. You’ve got this, Andrew! 🚀🎓
Step 1: Get a grip on that stress
First, breathe! It’s totally normal to feel worried, but don’t let fear run the show. College is a big leap, but it’s also a chance to grow and discover yourself—kind of like a superhero origin story. Maybe you'll discover you're really good at making ramen with 3 ingredients or find your tribe in the most unexpected place. Just think of it as a new chapter full of potential.
Step 2: Financial Planning—Don’t Panic, Just Plan
Now, about that $40,000 debt. Yeah, it sounds scary, but it’s not the end of the world! Take a deep breath and start researching scholarships, grants, and work-study programs that can help you pay off that debt in the long run. There are opportunities everywhere if you dig deep enough, and many schools have resources to help students find money they didn’t even know existed. Pro tip: Apply for every scholarship you can find—even the quirky ones (I hear there are scholarships for tall people and left-handed folks)!
Also, make sure you know about student loan repayment plans. The world is full of options to help you manage the debt, and the right plan can make a huge difference down the road.
Step 3: Building Your Support Squad—Family, Friends, or Even Pizza Delivery
Being six hours away from home can feel like being on another planet, but guess what? You don’t have to do this alone. With technology today, you can FaceTime, text, or call anyone, anytime. And guess what else? You can create a support network at school. Whether it’s making friends in your dorm, joining clubs, or even striking up a conversation with the person in the cafeteria line (who knows, they might become your new best friend), you’re bound to find your people.
And, hey, if you’re ever feeling homesick, remember that you can always FaceTime someone to share your pizza (because pizza always makes everything better, right?).
Step 4: Lean into the Experience—You’re Not Alone in This!
Yes, college is a big change, but it’s also a chance for new adventures! Embrace the weird, quirky, and fun parts of being in a new place. Worst case, if you don’t like it, you can transfer. But there’s also a big chance that you’ll find something that feels like home, even if it’s just a favorite coffee shop or the most chill spot on campus.
Step 5: Set Small Goals and Stay on Track
Lastly, remember that college is about progress, not perfection. Break your big goals into smaller, achievable steps. Got homework? Break it into chunks. Feeling overwhelmed? Take a walk. It’s okay to stumble—everyone does. But each little win adds up, and soon you’ll be walking across that graduation stage wondering, “How the heck did I make it this far?” And trust me, it’ll feel AMAZING.
So, to sum it ,
Take a breath, plan ahead, make connections, and don’t forget to laugh along the way. You’re about to level up in life, and with each step, you’re building the foundation for your own unique success story. Go make those memories, conquer those challenges, and before you know it, that 6-hour drive will just be a distant memory. You’ve got this, Andrew! 🚀🎓
Sharon Vien
Data and Tech Associate
51
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Sharon’s Answer
Hi Andrew,
Moving far away from home for university and taking on debt can be extremely daunting. If possible, I'd try to research and apply for any scholarships to lessen the financial load and make sure you have a great support system to help you get through the challenging transition from highschool to university. But if you don't, no worries! You can always make new friends in college who are most likely experiencing the same feelings as you.
As a side note, have you considered going to community college prior to transferring to a 4-year university? This may help you lessen the financial load but there are pros and cons with this approach as well. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Best of luck!
Moving far away from home for university and taking on debt can be extremely daunting. If possible, I'd try to research and apply for any scholarships to lessen the financial load and make sure you have a great support system to help you get through the challenging transition from highschool to university. But if you don't, no worries! You can always make new friends in college who are most likely experiencing the same feelings as you.
As a side note, have you considered going to community college prior to transferring to a 4-year university? This may help you lessen the financial load but there are pros and cons with this approach as well. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Best of luck!
Thank you so much!
Andrew
Emily Garcia
Graphic Designer
35
Answers
Apple Valley, California
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hello Andrew,
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about committing to a school far from home, especially with financial and emotional factors weighing heavily on your decision. It's a big choice, and when you're thinking about significant student debt and the unknowns that come with living in an unfamiliar place, it's natural to wonder how to navigate that.
Take some time to assess why you are considering these schools and what you hope to gain from the experience. Sometimes a solid understanding of your long-term goals can help calm those nerves. Are you excited about the major, the campus life, or career opportunities that this new school offers? Having a clear picture of your future can help you make this leap with more confidence.
Before you make any final decision, double-check if there are any additional scholarships, grants, or work-study opportunities in regard to your debt situation. Sometimes schools offer extra financial aid at the last minute. You can also try to create a detailed budget for living expenses and familiarize yourself with your loan terms, repayment options, and what interest rates you'll be dealing with. This can ease the worry around that debt, making it feel more manageable.
Being far from home can be isolating, but there are ways to stay rooted in your support system. Schedule breaks to go home or even invite friends and family to visit you during holidays or weekends. Knowing when you'll next see them can make the distance feel less daunting. Try to build relationships early too- whether with professors, other students, or campus groups. Having a community around you is vital for staying grounded.
Even if you're not planning to drop out, it's helpful to know that you have options. Research transfer policies or gap year programs that could allow you to take a break or switch schools if things don't work out. Having a safety net in place will help you feel less overwhelmed by the decision. Many schools also offer part-time jobs to help students pay for living expenses. Securing an on-campus job could reduce the financial strain and help you meet new people while also building your resume.
Ultimately, taking the step to go to a school far from home is a brave decision, and it's normal to have doubts. However, by breaking down the challenges into manageable pieces and having a clear support structure, you can set yourself up to succeed. College isn't just about academics; it's also about personal growth, resilience, and discovering how you handle the unexpected.
I hope this help you out a bit more during this time, and I wish you the best with all your future endeavors.
Best Regards,
Emily Garcia
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about committing to a school far from home, especially with financial and emotional factors weighing heavily on your decision. It's a big choice, and when you're thinking about significant student debt and the unknowns that come with living in an unfamiliar place, it's natural to wonder how to navigate that.
Take some time to assess why you are considering these schools and what you hope to gain from the experience. Sometimes a solid understanding of your long-term goals can help calm those nerves. Are you excited about the major, the campus life, or career opportunities that this new school offers? Having a clear picture of your future can help you make this leap with more confidence.
Before you make any final decision, double-check if there are any additional scholarships, grants, or work-study opportunities in regard to your debt situation. Sometimes schools offer extra financial aid at the last minute. You can also try to create a detailed budget for living expenses and familiarize yourself with your loan terms, repayment options, and what interest rates you'll be dealing with. This can ease the worry around that debt, making it feel more manageable.
Being far from home can be isolating, but there are ways to stay rooted in your support system. Schedule breaks to go home or even invite friends and family to visit you during holidays or weekends. Knowing when you'll next see them can make the distance feel less daunting. Try to build relationships early too- whether with professors, other students, or campus groups. Having a community around you is vital for staying grounded.
Even if you're not planning to drop out, it's helpful to know that you have options. Research transfer policies or gap year programs that could allow you to take a break or switch schools if things don't work out. Having a safety net in place will help you feel less overwhelmed by the decision. Many schools also offer part-time jobs to help students pay for living expenses. Securing an on-campus job could reduce the financial strain and help you meet new people while also building your resume.
Ultimately, taking the step to go to a school far from home is a brave decision, and it's normal to have doubts. However, by breaking down the challenges into manageable pieces and having a clear support structure, you can set yourself up to succeed. College isn't just about academics; it's also about personal growth, resilience, and discovering how you handle the unexpected.
I hope this help you out a bit more during this time, and I wish you the best with all your future endeavors.
Best Regards,
Emily Garcia
Emily, thank you!
Andrew
You're welcome, Andrew! If you ever need any more assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to me :)
Emily Garcia