When deciding where to go to college there are a lot of factors that cross our minds. We think about whether we want a big or small school, what we might want our major to be, money, distance to home and so much more. I remember when I was younger telling my parents I would go to Duke or Stanford. Now, being honest, there is no possible way I would get into Duke or Stanford. But there is something interesting to me about how my younger self felt so comfortable about going somewhere away from home. Especially because now I go to Bentley which is ten minutes away from my home. A lot of people ask me if I feel coddled by my parents being only a small drive away to come to rescue me. I don’t – I have actually found it to be the most freeing.
I am a younger sibling and therefore, have gotten a bit of special treatment. But this special treatment has the consequence of constantly feeling like a child. Obviously, I am their child. My older sister has always been seen as mature and that is something I never felt was an option for me. I was always their little girl.
Going to college close to my home has actually built mutual respect between me and my parents. They do not have the responsibility of analyzing my decisions so they have started to see me as an adult. My mom and I can go get our nails done and chat about school and friends. My dad and I take my dog on walks and go out for lunch. We have mature and fulfilling conversations about my new college experiences.
The reason I am talking about this is that there is a stigma about students that go to college so close to home. That they are too reliant on their family and they are stuck in their hometown. These individuals are seen as being unable to move on in life. Although I see the benefit in experiencing college in a different place in the country, I am starting to see that one can have a similar experience close to home.
My roommates and friends would also vouch that having family nearby benefits all – whether it be a ride to go somewhere, food drop-offs, or some parental advice.
Sometimes I think about the “what-ifs”. What if I went to California or even Rhode Island? Would I feel any different? I can’t be sure, but I do know that I am more than happy with my choice.