Going away to college can be exciting, yet terrifying. But, going away to a college that demands a plane ticket requires commitment. Although nobody explained to me what it would be like attending college 2,000 miles away from home, I am here to explain it to you. Now, I understand that a list cannot fully prepare you for the next four years of your lives, but it can certainly guide you along the way.
1. You can't pack everything
One of the perks of going to college in-state is that you can pack a car up and drive right there. Well, for out-state-kids, you will be forced to leave some of your clothing and "necessities" behind. Unless your parents are willing to pay the fee for heavier luggage, start practicing to pack under 50 lbs!
2. Don't get sick - you can't go home
If you thought being sick during high school was bad... imagine not being able to curl up in your bed and eat your mom's homemade chicken noodle soup. Some students have the luxury of living a few hours away and can go home if need be.
Unfortunately, out of state students do not have the luxury of going home as they please. In order to prevent getting sick, try to stay as healthy as possible. It’s important to get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, and eat healthily.
3. Holidays - the most "wonderful" time of the year
The holidays are an exciting time because finals are over and you finally get to see your family and friends! However, make sure your flight is not delayed or better yet- canceled. Plan your flight a few days in advance so you don't miss out on the annual, family holiday party. Trust me, it happens.
4. Weather change
If you are someone traveling a plane ride away to get to your school, the weather is most likely going to be different from the weather at home. For those of you like me who are leaving the state of Florida and traveling to the North, prepare for the tundra.
Start building up that winter wardrobe early on so you are not bombarded with it the week before you leave. The same goes for students traveling down South to school and are used to the winter. All I have to say is, get used to sweating all year round!
5. You will come across a lot of people who are friends from high school
At first, you may feel isolated or lonely because you are coming from a whole different state. Take a deep breath. Odds are, you will come into a mix of people who know each other from high schools that are closer to your college.
This happens a lot. And, although it can be scary, everybody finds their own group and EVERYTHING changes after a few months. Give it time, and you will find yourself with the most amazing friends.
6. Stores will be different
If you are someone who is attached to your local supermarket, like me, then you may have a hard time with this. Not having your favorite gym or restaurant around could create some homesick feelings.
Most of the time, supermarkets and other stores that you grew up loving will not be available at the school you choose to attend. For instance, Florida is home to Publix which certainly can not be found in New York. It takes time to adapt to this new world, but fair warning, it is not easy.
7. Time difference
This goes for the students traveling across the country to attend a university. Time differences can be tricky, and I've seen plenty of people affected by it. Just because you are eating dinner and need to ask your mom a question, does not mean she will be awake. Be aware of the time difference because it can definitely catch you off guard.
8. Finances
Attending college outside of the state you live in could be extremely pricey. Every college is different when it comes to tuition but for the most part, you will end up paying more than if you stayed in state. However, this is not a bad thing. Getting accepted to your dream school or a better program could be enough to go out of state. Keep your options open, but keep the finances in mind.
9. Emergencies
Traveling out of state takes at least a few hours. With that being said, it is harder to get home in the state of an emergency when you are 2,000 miles away. Hopping on a last minute flight isn't easy and is definitely more expensive. Keep this in mind if you are somebody who does not do well in time-pressured situations.
10. People will most likely have different lingo
In my opinion, every state has their own set of slang words that they use. For example, people from Philly often refer to an object as a "jawn" which sounded like another language to me when I first heard it. Getting used to other people's lingo is a major adjustment and often humorous. As time goes on, you will find yourself saying words that you had never even heard of before school!
Going out of state to school was one of the best decisions of my life. I was able to meet new people and experience different things that I may not have been able to do if I had stayed in state. This is by no means a list to discourage you, but a list to inform you on what you should prepare for if you choose that out of state school. Be prepared. Be informed. And most importantly have fun! The best four years of your life is right around the corner.
