To Those Leaving Home for the First Time,

Now that I have officially started my journey as a college student, I have been challenged in many aspects of my life. I am blossoming into a person I can say I am proud of, and I can't tell you the kind of satisfaction that gives me. I am fortunate enough to have transitioned so well from home to college, as well as finding some of the most beautiful souls I have ever met.

There are some people who embrace this move, others who dread it and then others who deny it completely. Fear can keep people from branching out, and discovering their own potential. The funny thing is even if a person is reluctant to change, they cannot change what is happening in the world around them. We cannot freeze time, so we either stay in the past or tackle the future.

There is a great quote by F. Scott Fitzgerald that states “It’s a funny thing coming home, nothing changes. Everything looks the same, even smells the same. You realize what’s changed is you.” My first visit home from college hasn’t happened yet, but I know how I felt after traveling abroad on a school trip and then returning home. The experiences I had overseas exposed me to a completely different culture, and a unique perspective on my life. I loved the person I was becoming, but others had mixed feelings about it.

Sometimes when you truly find yourself the people you thought would be there for a lifetime disappear. When this happens, know that better things and relationships are ahead. Never ever look back because that is not the direction you should travel; it should always be forward. The people holding you back deserve to stay behind you. Know your true strength.

Of course, I missed home, but I also challenged myself every day. All the last-minute doubts I had felt about being away from home resulted in a more independent and adventurous me. The personal qualities I brought with me included a desire to immerse myself and learn. I would never have spread my wings if I stayed in my hometown.

I needed a change, a place to truly find myself and start the journey in becoming the person I have always wanted to be. Sometimes leaving what is comfortable and safe allows you to realize your inner strength, bravery, and beauty.

It is likely that after college, there could be a career move. Perhaps if I have a family, there will be other moves, so my attitude is open to change. As long as my family and friends stay in touch and support me, I will keep me moving forward. So to those leaving home for the first time, be open to new things and experiences and count on the people in your life who want for you to be the best version of yourself!

Sincerely,

Someone who's done it before you.