It is not only typical but usually expected of teenagers to go off and attend a big 4-year university -- the road more traveled. Attending a local community college and living at home was certainly the road less traveled, and often bluntly looked down upon. However, sometimes taking that road and doing what is best in that moment, is truly rewarding. Life decisions are under no obligation to fulfill anyones expectations or blend to societies "typical" educational route.

Doing something other than the majority of my graduating high school class brought about a great quantum of knowledge. Not only did I learn to accept the benefits of my choice -- no student loans, free meals from mom -- but I met others with different ethnic backgrounds, different economic status', and who's primary language wasn't English.

Of course, I am aware of just how fortunate I am. I have a roof over my head, family and friends that care for me, and I am healthy. Most people I graduated with, would most likely say the same. But could you imagine being 17, alone because your parents have passed? While trying to put yourself through school? Or could you imagine being raised by an abusive father who locks you out of the house?Or could you imagine having to pay for tuition, books, a car, and bills all on your own.I can't. And these were the stories of the people I've met.

Then I am asked, "why are you here?" and I can't seem to respond. Some of the reasons of attendance that I have heard, have and will never leave my mind. Spending time with other students who's stories I never thought i'd really hear, is how I started to grow. That's where I gained a better understanding of those around me and got that greater quantum of knowledge.

After a while of desiring this typical 4-year college experience, the dream slowly started to deplete. I would not have grown this much as a person if I hadn't experienced this stage in my life -- having traveled down the road less taken.

So I encourage others to face their two possible routes and chose the one less taken and to have a different story to tell.

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference." -Robert Frost