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did you go out of state for school, if so did you regret not being close to family?

I am a sophomore in high school thinking of going across the country for my college education.

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Paul’s Answer

I did go to a college that was 300 miles away from my home. But I did have some familiarity with the university, because my brother had previously attended it.

I attempt to encourage students to attend colleges that are close to home or their home base. I did visit a college far away from home, that I had no connection with, and felt completely lost, and thus decided not to attend it.

My opinion is that it is best to attend a college that you connect with, which has good resources, and is not too far away from your family and home base. It helps to have the encouragement and family support close in case something happens, and you require assistance.
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Jeannette’s Answer

Hi Iola,

I went out of state (from Michigan to Massacusetts). I initially wanted to try for a school in California but my mother's reaction was "that's so far!!" Little did she know I would eventually live much farther away than that ... Which is all to say, I wanted to get out of Michian almost as soon as I learned there were other places to be. My family was, is, always has been, pretty supportive while also having their own preferences. I'm grateful to them for that. I also knew that I had to be true to myself. So, no regrets from me at all, but my advice to you is, you need to know yourself. Does the thought of moving away excite you in a positive way? Butterflies in the stomach are ok but if your heart of hearts, or your gut of guts, is telling you no, then respect that.

One other piece of advice: wherever you're considering applying, go to the school. Visit the city/town where you'll be living. You'll get a feel for the place and whether or not you can see yourself there.

Good luck!

Jeannette
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Heather’s Answer

Taking the leap to venture out of state was the best decision I've ever made, and I'm thrilled about it! The need for a fresh start and a change of scenery was crucial for me, so I chose a location that was a manageable 6-hour drive away. I had to decide between that and a 4-hour flight, but I preferred having the option to hop in the car and rush home if necessary. Being far enough away to avoid frequent weekend trips home has significantly contributed to my personal growth. Wishing you all the best on your journey!
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Shannon’s Answer

Even though I hail from New Jersey, I bravely set out on my educational adventure in Virginia. Initially, I was swamped with a surge of longing for home, but it wasn't long before I was encircled by incredible friends and wholeheartedly welcomed this fresh journey. I discovered that these experiences were a distinct break from my usual routine back home, and I wouldn't trade it for anything else.
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Emily’s Answer

I went out of state and also studied abroad in London for a semester. I think being a little farther from home was a good opportunity for me to grow and develop. Totally normal though to sometimes feel scared or homesick (I was at times!), but I found that my friends that I made in college became family too. You can also plan ahead when you can go home for visits (e.g., occasional weekends, holidays) and organize phone/video calls in the interim.

Overall, I would recommend picking a college that feels right for you, whether it is in or out of state!
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Diane’s Answer

No. I stayed in state. I liked being only 30 minutes from home. Sometimes it was a deterrent because I would go home to parties. Sometimes it was good because I could get what i needed from my parents house. I wish that I had took in the college experience more and appreciated all the activities that I could have been involved in. Going to college is a great way to learn and to meet life long friends.
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Marla’s Answer

Hi, I remained in-state for college. However, after college, I moved out of state for job opportunities of interest. I do not regret moving as it has taught me to be independent and I've gained valuable skills and have grown my network.
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Diane’s Answer

Hi Lola - I stayed in state for college but was 3 hours away from home. It was definitely a scary/unsure time in my life as you don't have the immediate comfort of family and friends at your fingertips. I feel a lot depends on how independent you are and your mental mindset. Many kids venture out of state for their college experience. Make sure you find a college that best suits your academic and social needs as well as carving time out to visit/take a tour of any college you are interested in attending. I would also suggest looking to join college clubs/student organizations to help you transition and meet new friends, which will help easy any home sickness you may encounter/feel. Best of luck!
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Deandra’s Answer

Raised in Brooklyn, NY, I took a bold leap and pursued higher education in the scenic Saratoga Springs, NY, a journey of about four hours by road. Interestingly, my college adventure kicked off overseas as I was fortunate to be accepted into the study abroad program in my first semester. This led me to the historic city of London, England, an experience that was nothing short of extraordinary and one I would gladly relive!

The chance to immerse yourself in a new state or even a different country while acquiring knowledge is an invaluable experience. It's true, you might feel a pang of homesickness, but thanks to modern technology like FaceTime, staying connected with loved ones is just a click away.

Embrace the freedom and opportunities that college life presents and squeeze every bit of goodness out of it. Don't set boundaries for yourself. Remember, growth often happens outside of your comfort zone. So, step out, explore, learn, and let the world be your classroom!
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Austin’s Answer

Hi Lola,

Before anything else, best of luck with your college search and future application! Personally, I went out of state and moved from Tampa to Boston for my college education. Having some distance from your family and familiar surroundings is definitely a struggle, but I believe that it is worth it. While at an out of state college, you have the opportunity to go out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself in ways that you may not experience while remaining close to home. You will learn to overcome challenges without the aid of your family, and can develop a new support network of widespread opinions and perspectives that you may have not been exposed to while at home. I also think that one of the biggest benefits of going out of state is that it allows you choose a location for future job opportunities and establish a network that expands beyond the confines of your hometown.

Overall, I think that the in state versus out of state question boils down to personal preference, and that the right answer for you will come down to which school aligns best with your goals. The education can be similar, but the experience of being out of state offers challenges and opportunities that allow for a unique style of growth that is not offered while close to home. Either way, best of luck with your college search!
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Ezra’s Answer

Hey there,
I didn't take the traditional college path, instead I chose to join the military. Sure, it had its challenging moments, like missing out on many holidays, but on the bright side, I made some amazing new friends to share the celebrations with. I wholeheartedly encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, leave your hometown, and venture out to create your own unique experiences.
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Claudia’s Answer

I didn't go out of state for college but I did leave my hometown which was Miami to attend the University of Florida and it was the best decision I ever made. I don't think you will regret leaving home for college and I think everyone should do it. When you're away from home (and your parents) there is so much personal growth that happens and I think it is difficult to grow in the same way if you stay in your hometown because you stay in your comfort zone. You can always visit your family during school breaks or holidays, absolutely go away for college!
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Samantha’s Answer

Hi Lola,

I am from Chicago and went to school out of state in Colorado. It was scary at times, and I did get homesick. The school I chose had a great program for what I wanted to accomplish for my career, which helped motivate me to make it work.

A large percentage of undergraduate students were also from out of state. This helped as I was able to find friends in similar situations and create my own network. Colorado is also somewhere that gave me access to the hobbies I enjoyed, such as hiking, camping, and skiing.

I would suggest looking at schools that not only have the right program or major for you, but also other factors that are important. Including size, demographics, location, etc. Also, planning on when you can visit home, and attend the events that are important to you is helpful. Just keep in mind how much it may cost to travel back-and-forth.

Best of luck!
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