Let me start by saying I get it, leaving home can be terrifying.

The thought of having to leave everything you've ever known to go to a new place can be very unsettling, especially if you're completely alone like I was. I left my small hometown in North Carolina to go to East Carolina University, a large university about four hours away. The summer before I left, I was an emotional wreck. I didn't want to leave and part of me thought I wouldn't be able to.

Luckily, I did and here are a few reasons why going away for college was the BEST decision that I have ever made.

"If we were meant to stay in once place, we'd have roots instead of feet." - Rachel Wolchin

1. It's a fresh start. 

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The thing I loved most about going to school four hours away is that I could start over and finally grow into the person I was supposed to be. Don't get me wrong, I love home, but sometimes growing up in sheltered environments can stunt your growth by not giving you the many opportunities you need to reach your full potential.

​2. You will find yourself.​

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In high school I was never a straight "A" student, I wasn't very organized, and I didn't have many dreams outside of my small town. Finding myself in Greenville, NC allowed me to dig deep and see myself for who I really am, which is someone completely different than the person who grew up in a that little town. I have had opportunities and experiences that I never would of been able to have if I didn't go away.

3. You will meet all kinds of people.

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My biggest fear going into my freshmen year was that I would be alone and make no new friends, which was ridiculous. By going four hours away, I was forced to put myself out there and meet new people. The good thing about it is, everyone is looking for new friends and you WILL meet people just like you, even if you're not from the same place.

4. You will become independent.

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Sure, being able to take your laundry home twice a week for your mom to do is ideal, but not realistic when it comes to growing up. If I have gained one thing from moving away from home for college, its independence. Leaving home definitely required me to grow up, fast. For example, before my freshmen year I had never even went to the doctor alone, so It's okay if you don't know what you're doing at first, everyone has to learn at some point.

5. You will appreciate home so much more.

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Let me just say this, you will never want a home cooked meal more than you do when you come home for the first time after being away. The little things about home that we often take for granted become so much more special when we don't get them as often.

I can honestly say throwing myself into a situation that made me uncomfortable was the best thing for me. I was able to spread my wings in a new environment that allowed me to grow into the person that I am today.

XOXO,

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