Never in my life did I ever imagine myself living at home for college. I always had this picture in my head that as soon as I graduated high school I would be out of here. It wasn't until mid senior year of high school when I made the drastic decision, to stay home unlike the majority of my friends. I applied to plenty of out-of-state schools, knowing I would could attend on a free ride. Then I realized that if I stayed, I'd receive the same degree as I would anywhere else. I'd be all set.

As summer of senior year began to come to an end everything became surreal. Everyone began to move into their new homes for the next four plus years. I remember scrolling through Instagram and watching Snapchat videos feeling like I was missing out on everything. From attending insane parties to not being able to decorate my dorm room, it just didn't feel right. I spent majority of my freshman year of college miserable because I thought I made the most horrible decision of my life. It wasn't until that next summer when I realized it truly isn't so bad.

First and foremost, I have a home cooked meal each and every night, which is pretty rad. I don't have to share a room with anyone, which I can imagine I would definitely hate. I'm able to visit my friends at their colleges whenever I please. Almost every weekend, at least one of my friends that lives away ends up visiting home. I travel to Manhattan and Brooklyn Heights every single day, which fits me perfectly because I am nothing, but a city girl. I focus on my grades a lot more than I would living on my own. I have a lot of time to work and save up more money for the future. And lastly, I still can party and have fun, just a little differently.

Looking back I wish I could do my freshman year over and not of been so miserable, but I guess I had to learn for myself. Although I'm experiencing the whole college thing a bit differently than I expected, I truly couldn't be any happier to know I've found my place. To those who may be incoming college freshman living at home reading this, don't do what I did. Don't fear you've made the wrong decision. It will take some time to get used to things, but I promise it'll be okay.