I have friends that go to school all over the state and even around the country. Being the only one of my friends to go to school in our hometown was not easy by any means; however, I would not have had it any other way. Here are the six things I have learned while staying home for college:

1. Your friends will leave, it will be hard, but you will survive.

All of my friends for the most part, left the area to go to school, it was difficult and hard at times starting school with your close knit group of people not there by your side. One thing to know is that you're not alone and regardless of how hard days might be you have people around you going through the same things!

2. Make new friends and keep the old.

Having friends at various universities and colleges has made my college experience very interesting. I have been fortunate enough to visit and meet people from all over through visiting my friends. I have gone to homecoming events, student unions, concerts, frat parties, and have able to experience the college life. Make new friends and bring them along! You are the company you keep.

3. Get involved.

Go volunteer at the charity event going on at your student union, join a club, attend a sporting event. The more you get involved the happier you will be. I personally joined the Preforming Arts at my college and have meet some of the best people and have had the best experiences along the way.

4. Don't take the little things for granted.

Staying home for college for me means living at home. Some people see that as a negative thing; however, I have begun to see it as a good thing as free rent, home cooked meals, and a family who supports me. Don't take those home cooked meals and free laundry for granted. One day you might not have that. Even though some days you might but heads and get into heated arguments with your parents just remember it could always be worse.

5. Apply for scholarships.

You have probably heard this a thousand times, but I mean it apply for scholarships! Regardless of your financial status or major there are numerous scholarships out there that go wasted each year because people do not take the time to fill out an application. I promise you, it will always be worth it.

6. You are saving money!

If only I knew now how much money I will be saving in the end. Going away to school is expensive with dorms, sororities or fraternities, food expenses, and much more. It might not matter to you now, but trust me you will appreciate this in the long run!