Born and raised in a small New Jersey town with only 5,000 people, moving to a new city over 1,000 miles away was an adjustment. I left the comfort of my parents’ home to begin my college journey in Tampa, Florida. To say it was an adjustment would be an understatement. My initial excitement quickly turned to regret on the first day when my parents dropped me off. I was suddenly all alone.

In time, I overcame the uneasiness of being homesick and found myself happier than I ever imagined being.

1. Meeting people from all over the country (and world)

Some of the best people I’ve met during my first year at school live hundreds, even thousands, of miles away from my home. I have friends from right here in Florida, Massachusetts, California, and even from countries like Hungary and Dubai!

2. Gaining a new sense of independence

No matter how far you go, college is a time to be independent and learn how to live on your own. I spend more time by myself than I ever did before and I love it. Being with other people is great but being able to go out and do things on my own is very important to me.

3. Mastering the ways of airport and travel

Being 1000 miles away, the easiest way to visit home is flying. I’ve flown to and from school many times. I’m a pro at navigating airports and baggage claims.

4. A better relationship with family

Since I see my family less often than before, I value the time that I do have with them. I talk to my sister every day and FaceTime has become my best friend.

5. Food

In the past year, I have significantly expanded my eating habits. Florida has some of the best Mexican food in this country. As a Jersey native, the biggest shock to me was how terrible the bread is in Florida. Pizza, bagels, and hoagies just aren’t the same. I now have a greater appreciation for food from home but have also found new favorites down south.

6. Change is a good thing

I spent my whole life in one place. Even if it wasn’t the easiest transition to make I think moving far away to college was something I had to do. I needed to escape my comfort zone, learn more about myself, and figure how what I want to do with my life. I don’t think this is something I could have done staying in the same place forever.

7. Finding your happiness

Being the only one in control of my future, moving 1,000 miles away from home wasn’t easy but it was an important stepping stone in my life and has changed my outlook on the world around me. My own happiness is important to me and I have made it a priority of mine to do whatever it takes to find it.

Everybody is different. For some, moving so far from home might not be the best decision. Find your own happiness and do what is best for you. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity and independence to leave home, thanks Mom and Dad.