Moving thirteen hours away from home to a school of 38,770 students where I knew absolutely no one was one of the more adventurous, exciting decisions I have made in life. While many of my hometown friends were accepted into the same in-state colleges and decided to room with one another, the fact that I would be going to a place far from home became even more appealing because of the new people I would meet and the new area I would start to call home.

As I’m sure every out-of-state student can attest to the fact that the feeling of being out on your own in an unfamiliar area and environment all by yourself is both liberating and thrilling. It’s like starting over. Nobody knows who you are and the opportunities seem endless. Every new incoming college student experiences feelings of excitement and freedom; however, those who move far away from home for college have a completely different experience than in-state students can even begin to realize. Out-of-state students deal with their own unique set of struggles and opportunities.

1. Culture Shock- The incredible thing about going to school in a different state is that you get to see how people live there as compared to your hometown. For me, it was the difference between the Midwest and the East Coast. And while I can try my best to describe the different vibes these two drastically different places give off and how different the people in each of these areas are, no one really gets it. The East Coast has a totally different feel than the Midwest. Having a change of scenery and being surrounded by people who are different than back home made moving far away all the more sensational.

2. Meeting new people- I was so confused the first week of school when so many people already knew each other, and I then realized that many of these people had known each other all throughout high school. When going to a big state school, people who live in-state already know many people from high school and their home towns. Sometimes this proved to be very difficult because while they already have relationships built, memories made, and inside jokes, you’re starting 100% from scratch. But going outside your comfort zone to meet people is something everyone needs to do in life.

3. The fact that you are a plane ticket away from home- I remember the first time my roommate went home on a random weekend during first semester. It was then that I began to fully comprehend how far from home I am. Many times, for out-of-state students, going home includes a small, carry-on bag and a plane ticket. Homesickness hits you on a whole new level as an out-of-state student. However, being so far away also makes you appreciate home and family that much more.

4. You get the adventure of a lifetime! Moving to a completely new place with all completely new people is one of the neatest things. Getting to know everyone’s pasts and the different experiences others have had is fascinating. Listening and learning from others is what helps you grow and develop as a person. You learn a lot about yourself and the whole world by going out and seeing it!

While leaving everything you are familiar with is hard, you get a completely clean slate, new start, and fresh scenery. It broadens your mindset, and helps you become more versatile. Embrace what is around you and take advantage of all that is offered!