Oh, New Jersey. You really have a way about you. However, after spending 16 years of my life here, it was time for me to leave and see what else the world had to offer besides 24-hour diners, Wawa, and the dreaded Jersey Turnpike. So what better way to explain how all of us New Jersians feel now being out of our element and in a new state than our friends down the shore who everyone asks if we know? I couldn't think of any other way.

1. Telling someone you're from New Jersey and them asking, "Is it like living on 'Jersey Shore?'"

No, it's not. In fact, before you accuse, realize that the only person ACTUALLY from Jersey is Sammi. That's it. Stop asking.

2. When no one else understands your love for Wawa.

3. Meeting other students from Jersey.

Finally someone who understands how you feel.

4. When you realize you will never find a decent pork roll egg and cheese.

My Saturday morning ritual of going to Manhattan Bagel is no more... Still don't know how I have survived this long.

5. Realizing you now have to fly home every time you want to go home.

Having to navigate an airport with your parents is hard enough, but on your own?! Fuhgettaboutit!

6. Not having to drive through ridiculous jug handles anymore...

Finally, a normal left-hand turn.

7. But now having to deal with slow drivers.

Having to deal with people that go 15 in a 25 is just asking for a death wish. Either speed up, or walk, everyone knows you go 30.

8. Having people tell you that you have an accent, when you know for a fact that you don't have one.

WE DON'T HAVE ACCENTS. I DON'T UNDERSTAND.

9. Everyone being really nice for no reason, and being really confused as to why.

Why are you not cursing in every sentence? Why are you so polite? Where is the sarcasm!?

10. When you realize you have to pump your own gas.

Never learned, never will. If I have gone this long without having to pump my own gas, I see no point in doing so. Thats what in-state friends are for.

11. Not being 20 minutes away from an Authentic Philly Cheese Steak Anymore.

And also having people say they had a great one in their hometown. Regardless if you like Pat's or Geno's, we can all agree there is no other place to get one.

12. When you come back and realize there is nothing quite like being in the Dirty Jerz.

And I wouldn't have it any other way.